For many people, their dogs are a member of the family. Some would go as far as to say they love their dogs like children. However, if a dog has not had adequate training, it can easily become very aggressive and cause people to become seriously injured. Believe it or not, a dog bite can cause an individual to sustain very serious, life-long injuries such as broken bones, torn muscles, and nerve damage. It is often challenging to prove a dog bite case but with the help of an experienced attorney from Markey & Orsi, it can be done. Our firm has represented victims of dog bites in Maryland for nearly 30 years. If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog, contact our firm today to discuss your case.
Dog Bite Laws in Maryland | Our Attorneys Are Here for Victims
From state to state, dog bite laws vary. In Maryland, the negligent party is usually the dog’s owner. It is important to be aware that if the dog was not under the control of the owner, meaning that it was not on a leash or it was off of its property, the victim does not need to prove the dog’s history of violence. This is because the owner was already negligent by not maintaining control of the dog. Things are different if the dog was on the owner’s property or was on a leash. If this was the case, the injured party is required to prove that negligence played a role. An investigation may need to be launched regarding the dog’s history of violence.
There are also situations in which the victim may not be eligible for compensation because of their own actions. For example, if the injured party was trespassing or attempting to commit a crime on the owner’s property, they are not entitled to compensation. In addition, if the owner can prove that the injured party was provoking the dog or not heeding warnings to stay away from the dog, they may not be held liable. Of course, there are many different factors that go into a dog bite case because no two situations are the same.
Recovering Damages
If the injured party is able to fulfill the burden of proof and prove that the dog’s owner was negligent, they may be entitled to compensation that is both economic and non-economic in nature. Some of the damages that may be recovered can include medical expenses, lost wages, the need to hire outside help, emotional distress, pain and suffering, and more. Of course, it is always best to speak with an experienced dog bite attorney to see what damages you may be eligible for.
Contact Our Dog Bite Attorneys
If you’ve been injured by an aggressive dog in Maryland, it is important to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney that can represent your interests and fight for the compensation you are entitled to. Markey & Orsi has nearly 30 years of experience guiding clients through dog bite cases. Contact our firm today.
