Timonium-Lutherville Dog Bite Attorney

Fighting For Those Who Have Been Injured By a Dog in Baltimore - Spanish Translation Available

Dog bite injuries can be very concerning. However, Maryland holds dog owners strictly liable for any damages (bites) their dogs incur. If you have been injured to some capacity by a dog bite, there are a couple of ways you can sue the dog owner. The Law Office of Justin A. Wallace is a trial firm that can help you build a strong and effective case for civil court. Timonium-Lutherville Dog Bite Attorney Justin A. Wallace will provide the personalized attention you deserve on your Maryland dog bite case and guide you efficiently through the legal process as you make your claim for damages.

Schedule a free consultation with the Law Office of Justin A. Wallace online or call (410) 996-4488 to get started with a dog bite lawyer in Timonium-Lutherville.

Dog Bite and Behavior Laws in Maryland

The Code of Maryland Section 3-1901 establishes that the dog owner is liable for any “injury, death, or loss to person or property” that their dog causes. This law concerns injuries inflicted by any dog-related behavior, not only dog bites.

However, the dog owner is not liable for damages if the injured party was doing any of the following:

• provoking, abusing, teasing, or tormenting the dog;
• trespassing or attempting to trespass on the dog owner’s territory;
• committing or attempting to commit a crime on the owner’s property or against another person.

Maryland Strict Liability and Negligence

Maryland handles dog bite cases under the “strict liability” rule, which states that the dog owner is liable for all damages caused by their dog, whether or not the dog owner knew their dog would act aggressively and even if they took reasonable actions to prevent the dog from causing injuries. The law also presumes that, if a dog has previously injured or killed someone, the dog owner consequently should have known their dog was dangerous. So, if the court finds that the dog has harmed someone in the past, they will presume that the dog owner knew the dog would do so again (unless the dog owner can prove otherwise).

An injured plaintiff may also sue on the grounds of negligence if not strict liability. In order to bring forward a negligence claim, the plaintiff must show that the dog owner had a duty to use reasonable care but breached that duty (e.g., the dog owner failed to properly restrain their dog), and this breach caused the plaintiff’s injuries.

What are the Criminal Penalties for Dog Owners?

Dog bite cases may not only be civil matters but also criminal. If the dog is classified as a “dangerous dog,” the dog bite or other injury will result in criminal penalties against the dog owner. The Code of Maryland Section 10-619 defines a “dangerous dog” as a dog that has killed or inflicted severe injury on someone without provocation or that was classified as “potentially dangerous” but then:

• bit someone;
• killed or injured another domestic animal; or
• attacked without being provoked.

Any violation of the above will result in misdemeanor penalties of up to $2,500 in fines and possible jail time for the dog owner.

Note that individuals are legally allowed to keep dangerous dogs – but only if they take the required precautions to care for the dog. Maryland law requires owners of dangerous dogs to abide by a number of laws, including keeping the dog on their property, restraining the dog when it goes off the property, and putting a muzzle on the dog when it’s around others. Failing to follow any of these rules constitutes a criminal misdemeanor.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Dog Bite Accident Claim?

Potential damages that can be recovered could include the following:

• Medical Expenses: Medical costs can quickly escalate following a dog bite, covering emergency room visits, surgeries, medications, and ongoing treatments. Compensation can cover both present and future medical expenses related to the injury.
• Lost Wages: If the dog bite injury forces you to miss work, you may be entitled to recover lost wages. This includes the time you have already missed and any future income lost because of long-term disability or inability to perform your previous job duties.
• Pain and Suffering: Dog bites often can lead to significant physical pain and emotional distress. Compensation for pain and suffering strives to address the trauma and diminished quality of life resulting from the injury.
• Scarring and Disfigurement: These bites often result in permanent scars or disfigurement, which can have a profound impact on a victim’s life. Damages for scarring and disfigurement are intended to compensate for the physical and psychological results of these lasting injuries.
• Rehabilitation Costs: Recovery from a dog bite can require extensive rehabilitation, including physical and occupational therapy. Compensation can cover these necessary and often costly treatments.
• Property Damage: In some instances, personal property may be damaged during a dog attack. This can include torn clothing or broken eyeglasses, and victims can also seek compensation for these losses.
• Punitive Damages: In certain circumstances where the dog owner’s conduct was particularly egregious or reckless, punitive damages could be granted. These are intended to punish the negligent owner and deter similar behavior in the future.

What is the Statute of Limitations for a Dog Bite Accident Claim in Maryland?

In the state of Maryland, the statute of limitations for filing a dog bite lawsuit is normally three years from the initial date of the incident. You will have three years to file a case seeking compensation for your injuries and losses.

Failing to file within this timeframe typically results in losing your right to pursue legal action, regardless of the severity of your injuries. It is essential to act promptly and consult with our knowledgeable Timonium-Lutherville dog bite attorney to ensure all legal deadlines have been met and your rights are well protected.

Contact Our Timonium-Lutherville Dog Bite Lawyers Today

If you have been injured in a dog bite accident, do not hesitate to contact the Law Office of Justin A. Wallace for legal guidance on your civil claim from an experienced Timonium-Lutherville dog bite lawyer. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may be able to obtain damages for medical bills and lost wages, among other economic and non-economic damages.

Why Choose Us?

1. Experience: Attorney Justin A. Wallace brings years of experience in personal injury law, with a focus on dog bite cases. His expertise and knowledge in this niche area make him a reliable choice for those seeking legal representation.

2. Compassion: We understand the physical and emotional trauma that a dog bite can cause. Our team of Timonium-Lutherville dog bite lawyers approaches each case with empathy, ensuring that clients receive the support and understanding they need during challenging times.

3. Proven Track Record: The Law Office of Justin A. Wallace has a history of securing favorable outcomes for dog bite victims. We have successfully negotiated settlements and, when necessary, litigated cases to achieve justice for our clients.

4. Personalized Attention: Every case is unique, and we believe in providing personalized attention to each client. Timonium-Lutherville Dog Bite Attorney Justin A. Wallace takes the time to understand the specifics of your situation, tailoring legal strategies to meet your individual needs.

Trust the Law Office of Justin A. Wallace to be your dedicated advocate, fighting diligently for your rights and holding dog owners accountable for their pets' actions. Your well-being is our priority, and we are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for your dog bite case in Timonium-Lutherville.

Schedule a free consultation with the Baltimore County firm today by calling (410) 996-4488 to learn more about your options and how to get started on your lawsuit with our Timonium-Lutherville dog bite attorney.