Baltimore Dog Bite Attorneys
Dog attacks can cause devastating physical injuries and lasting emotional trauma that affects victims for years. When someone else’s pet injures you, the owner bears responsibility for your medical bills, lost wages and pain, regardless of the animal’s previous behavior.
For over seven decades, Engel Law Group, P.C., has served Baltimore residents, providing compassionate legal representation for dog bite victims. Our skilled dog bite lawyers understand the complex nature of animal attack cases and work tirelessly to hold negligent pet owners accountable for their animals’ actions.
Understanding Liability For Dog Bites In Maryland
Maryland follows strict liability dog bite laws that hold owners responsible for injuries their pets cause to others. Unlike states that follow the “one-bite” rule, Maryland dog bite laws do not require proof that the owner knew their dog was dangerous or had bitten someone before. Dog owner liability applies whether the attack occurs on public or private property where the victim had a legal right to be.
Property owners and landlords may also face liability if they knew a dangerous animal lived on their premises and failed to take reasonable precautions. While all dogs can bite under certain circumstances, some dangerous dog breeds may pose higher risks due to their size and strength.
A knowledgeable dog bite attorney can identify all potentially liable parties to maximize your compensation. Under Maryland’s personal injury laws, you have three years from the date of a dog bite injury to file a lawsuit, making prompt legal action essential for protecting your rights.
Compensation For Dog Bite Victims
Dog attacks often result in severe physical injuries requiring extensive dog bite medical treatment, along with psychological trauma that can persist long after wounds heal. Animal attack injuries frequently involve deep puncture wounds, torn muscles and permanent scarring that may require plastic surgery for dog bite victims. You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses, including emergency care, surgeries and ongoing treatment
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity due to time away from work
- Pain and suffering from physical discomfort and emotional distress
- Scarring from dog bites and permanent disfigurement
- Future medical costs for reconstructive procedures or therapy
- Property damage to clothing, personal items or other belongings
Working with an experienced dog attack lawyer ensures you receive full compensation for both current and future damages related to your injuries.
What Should You Do If Someone’s Dog Bites You?
Seek immediate medical attention even for seemingly minor wounds, as dog bites carry high infection risks. Document everything by photographing your injuries, gathering witness contact information and obtaining the dog owner’s insurance details.
Report the incident to local animal control authorities and avoid discussing fault with the owner or their insurance company before consulting a dog bite attorney.
What If The Dog Belonged To A Family Member Or Close Friend?
Personal relationships should not prevent you from seeking compensation for serious injuries caused by someone’s negligence. Homeowners insurance dog bite coverage typically handles these claims, meaning the owner’s insurance company pays damages rather than your loved one personally.
A compassionate dog bite attorney can help you pursue compensation while preserving cherished relationships through professional handling of your case.
Injured By Someone’s Pet? We Are Here To Help.
Don’t let insurance companies minimize your dog bite injury compensation or deny the medical treatment you need to recover fully. Contact a skilled and compassionate dog bite attorney at Engel Law Group, P.C., by calling us at 410-449-2928 or completing our online form to schedule your free consultation. Protect your rights today.