Maryland Dog Bite Attorneys

Does Maryland Have Strict Liability for Dog Bites?

Maryland follows a strict liability rule for dog bites, meaning an owner can be held automatically responsible for injuries even if the dog has no history of aggression. However, there are certain exceptions to this rule, such as if the victim was trespassing, committing or attempting to commit a criminal offense, or teasing, tormenting, abusing, or provoking the dog (Md. Code § 3-1901).

Can I Sue the Dog’s Owner Even if the Dog Hasn’t Bitten Before?

Yes. It’s possible to pursue damages in a dog bite claim even if this was the dog’s first bite or attack. The law doesn’t require proof of prior incidents, meaning victims don’t have to prove that the owner knew the dog was dangerous. 

If strict liability does not apply to your case, you may still recover compensation by filing a negligence claim. This argues that the dog’s owner failed to exercise reasonable care in controlling or restraining the dog. 

Our attorneys are well-versed in these legal nuances to help you determine the best path forward for your specific claim, build a robust case, and pursue a settlement that covers your current and future care needs. 

Who Is Liable for a Dog Bite?

The dog’s owner is often the primary liable party in dog bite claims. However, victims may be entitled to seek compensation from any party whose negligence contributed to the attack. Our injury lawyers can help you identify liable parties, meet the burden of proof in your claim, and work diligently to recover fair compensation. 

What Compensation Is Recoverable in a Dog Bite Claim?

Various types of compensation may be recoverable in a dog bite lawsuit. There are two primary types: economic damages for direct financial losses and non-economic damages for indirect losses. 

Common types of damages in dog bite claims include:

• Lost income
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of earning capacity
• Hospital and medical bills
• Surgery and treatment costs
• Permanent scarring or disfigurement
• Loss of companionship or consortium

Our attorneys can assess every avenue for financial recovery to pursue the maximum compensation available to you. 

How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Claim?

In Maryland, the statute of limitations for dog bite claims is three years from the date of the accident. Failure to file within the correct deadline can result in the loss of eligibility for damages, making it imperative to seek timely counsel from our skilled attorneys. 

Can I Recover Punitive Damages in a Dog Bite Claim?

Punitive damages are only awarded in extreme cases involving actual malice or a conscious disregard for safety. Most dog bite claims focus on compensatory damages, but punitive damages are possible if the dog’s behavior and the owner’s actions go beyond ordinary negligence.

The “dangerous dog” law plays a key role in punitive damages. This rule applies when a dog has previously bitten, attacked, or severely injured a person or domestic animal. Once a dog is classified as dangerous, the owner must follow strict requirements to protect the public, such as proper confinement and restraints. 

Ignoring these rules and allowing the dog to injure someone again can support a claim for punitive damages and result in additional criminal charges against the owner (Md. Code § 10-619). If you were injured by a dog with a known history of aggression, we can evaluate whether the facts of your case support a punitive damages claim.