It’s no secret that dogs are man’s best friend. In many instances, these animals are loving and loyal, wagging their way into families across the world. However, not all dogs are aloof and friendly, and in some instances, they can be untrained and dangerous. As such, if you sustain a dog bite, understanding the dangers associated with these wounds and who can incur liability for the damages. If this reflects your circumstances, you’ll want to keep reading to learn how Baltimore County dog bite attorneys can assist you through these difficult matters.
What Complications Can Dog Bites Cause?
Unfortunately, many underestimate just how severe dog bites can be. Generally, these can cause pain, tenderness, and swelling in the area where the bite occurred. However, it’s also critical to understand that the most prevalent risk with these injuries is infection. When you are bitten by an animal, not only can their teeth puncture your skin, but the saliva in their mouth will seep into the open wounds. As such, the bacteria and germs in the saliva can result in a serious infection.
However, there are a number of other complications that can arise from dog bites. These include, but are by no means limited to, the following:
- Avulsions
- Nerve damage
- Scarring
- Soft tissue injuries
- Crush injuries (if strong enough, a bite can result in a broken bone)
- PTSD
Can the Owner Face Liability?
If you have been bitten by a dog in Maryland, it’s critical to understand who can face liability for the damages you’ve endured. Typically, states adhere to one of two methods for handling dog bite injuries. The first is the “one bite” statute. Essentially, this limits an owner’s liability for the actions of their dog if the dog has no history of previous aggressive behavior. For example, if a dog bites you but there have been no other instances of attacks, the owner will generally evade liability as they had no way of knowing the dog could turn aggressive.
However, Maryland, like most states, imposes a strict liability statute regarding dog bites, as the law believes an owner should have presumptive knowledge that their dog could attack someone. This makes it much easier for an injured party to recover compensation for damages
However, you should note that if you are trespassing or abusing the animal prior to the moments leading up to the attack, you will be ineligible to recover compensation. This is because homeowners owe no duty of care to those who are on their property unlawfully. Additionally, if you torment or provoke the dog, you will be deemed liable for the damages inflicted.
As you can see, dog bites can be incredibly difficult to navigate. That’s why it’s critical to connect with an experienced attorney with the Law Offices of Markey & Orsi to explore your legal options and fight for the compensation you are entitled to. When you need help, do not hesitate to contact our team today.