Owner walking her dog in the park
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When a dog bites, the consequences can be devastating, especially if the injury is severe. In Maryland, dog owners can be held liable for the actions of their pets if negligence is proven. This involves demonstrating that the owner failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the attack. By understanding the legal standards for owner responsibility, you can build a strong case to seek compensation for your injuries and hold negligent owners accountable.

Understanding Maryland Dog Bite Laws

Maryland’s dog bite laws are designed to hold owners accountable for the actions of their pets, especially in cases involving negligence. Under the state’s strict liability law, a dog owner can be held responsible if their dog bites someone, regardless of their previous behavior. However, there are exceptions, such as if the victim was trespassing or provoking the dog. In addition to strict liability, victims may also pursue claims based on negligence, where they must prove the owner failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the bite. 

What Constitutes Owner Negligence?

Owner negligence in dog bite cases occurs when the dog owner fails to act with reasonable care to prevent harm to others. In Maryland, this can include a variety of actions or inactions that lead to a dog bite incident. For example, if an owner fails to leash their dog in a public place, neglects to properly secure their pet on their property, or does not warn others about the dog’s aggressive tendencies, they may be found negligent. Negligence can also arise if the owner knew or should have known that the dog had a history of aggressive behavior but took no precautions to prevent an attack. 

Proving negligence requires showing that the owner had a duty to prevent the dog from causing harm, that they breached this duty, and that their breach directly led to the injury. This can be crucial to holding the owner accountable in a dog bite case.

Evidence to Prove Owner Negligence

Proving owner negligence in a dog bite case requires gathering strong evidence demonstrating the owner’s failure to take reasonable precautions. One of the most compelling forms of evidence is witness testimony. Statements from bystanders who saw the dog off-leash, unsupervised, or acting aggressively can help establish negligence. Medical records detailing the extent of the injuries sustained and the circumstances under which the bite occurred are also vital. 

Any prior incidents involving the dog, such as previous bites or complaints, can further support claims of negligence. Photographs or videos of the scene showing inadequate fencing or an unleashed dog can visually demonstrate the owner’s lack of control. Expert testimony, such as from a veterinarian or animal behaviorist, can also be instrumental in proving that the owner should have recognized the potential for their dog to cause harm. Collectively, this evidence forms the foundation for a strong negligence claim.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite

After a dog bite, taking immediate action is crucial to protect your health and strengthen any potential legal claims. Here are the steps to take:

  • Seek medical attention: Get treated for your injuries, no matter how minor they may seem.
  • Document the incident: Take photos of your injuries, the location, and the dog if possible.
  • Report the bite: Notify local animal control or law enforcement about the attack.
  • Gather witness information: Collect contact details of anyone who saw the incident.
  • Contact a personal injury attorney: Discuss your case and learn about your legal options.

Contact Our Experienced Maryland Dog Bite Attorneys

At Simeone & Miller LLP, we have extensive experience handling dog bite cases and helping victims secure the compensation they deserve. Our team is dedicated to thoroughly investigating each case, gathering the necessary evidence to prove owner negligence. We understand the physical and emotional toll these incidents can take, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.

Simeone & Miller LLP, based in Washington, D.C., also provides personal injury and medical malpractice legal services across Maryland and Virginia. In Maryland, our services extend to Baltimore City, Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Howard County, Anne Arundel County, and Frederick. In Virginia, we serve clients in Arlington County, Alexandria, Fairfax County, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Loudoun County, Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park.

About the Author
Our firm was founded in 2002 with a unique definition of “success.” Rather than making large legal fees our goal, we believed – and continue to believe – that creating as many satisfied clients as possible would lead to true success. Building a family of satisfied clients who we helped through a difficult time in their life was – and remains – the best reward of being an attorney. Our firm focuses on personal injury claims, serving clients in Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Maryland. When you meet with us, we will listen to your story, understand your concerns, and address those concerns by providing compassionate, effective representation and dependable service.