A dog bite can leave victims with severe injuries, emotional trauma, and significant medical bills. In Maryland, dog owners are held responsible for the actions of their pets, and victims have the right to seek compensation for their suffering. If you or a loved one has been bitten or attacked by a dog, it’s important to understand your legal options. At Schlachman, Belsky, Weiner & Davey, P.A., our experienced dog bite attorneys are committed to helping victims navigate the complexities of dog bite cases and recover the compensation they deserve.
Understanding Dog Bite Liability in Maryland
Maryland follows a strict liability law when it comes to dog bites. This means that a dog owner can be held liable for injuries caused by their dog, even if the dog has never shown aggression before. Whether the attack happens on public property or within a private home, victims can pursue legal action to hold the dog owner accountable for their negligence.
However, not all cases are straightforward. The dog owner may claim that the victim provoked the animal or was trespassing at the time of the attack. This is where our experienced attorneys can help. We will investigate the circumstances of the bite, gather evidence, and fight for your rights, ensuring that you are compensated for your injuries and suffering.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bites can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor scrapes to life-altering damage. Common injuries from dog bites include:
- Puncture wounds: Deep bites that can cause severe bleeding and require stitches.
- Infections: Bacteria in a dog’s mouth can lead to serious infections such as tetanus, rabies, or cellulitis.
- Nerve damage: A bite to the hands, face, or legs can damage nerves, leading to long-term impairment.
- Scarring and disfigurement: Some bites leave permanent scars, especially if they occur on visible areas like the face.
- Emotional trauma: Beyond the physical injuries, victims may suffer from anxiety, PTSD, and fear of dogs.
If you or a loved one has suffered any of these injuries due to a dog bite, it’s essential to seek medical treatment immediately and consult an attorney to discuss your legal options.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Maryland, taking the right steps can protect your health and strengthen your legal case. Here’s what to do:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if the bite seems minor, seek medical care to prevent infection and document your injuries.
- Report the Incident: Contact local animal control or the police to report the attack. This creates an official record that can be used in your case.
- Document the Scene: If possible, take photos of the injury, the dog, and the location of the attack. Gather contact information from the dog owner and any witnesses.
- Consult a Dog Bite Attorney: An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights and begin building a strong case for compensation.
At Schlachman, Belsky, Weiner & Davey, P.A., we are here to guide you through every step of the process, from dealing with insurance companies to filing a personal injury claim. We are dedicated to holding negligent dog owners accountable and securing the compensation you need to move forward.
Compensation for Dog Bite Victims
Dog bite victims in Maryland have the right to seek compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses: This includes hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and any future medical treatments needed as a result of the attack.
- Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be compensated for lost income during your recovery.
- Pain and suffering: This covers the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the dog bite.
- Rehabilitation costs: In cases of severe injury, victims may require physical therapy or long-term care.
Every case is unique, and our attorneys will work closely with you to calculate the full extent of your damages. We’ll fight to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
Defending Against Dog Bite Claims
In some cases, dog owners may face criminal charges or civil claims as a result of a dog bite. At SBWD Law, we also represent individuals facing legal action due to a dog attack. If you are a dog owner and believe the bite was not your fault, such as in cases where the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing, we can help defend your rights.
Dog owners in Maryland are often held responsible for the actions of their pets, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have a defense. Our attorneys will investigate the incident and build a strong case to protect your rights and minimize any penalties or fines.
Why Choose SBWD for Your Dog Bite Case?
When it comes to dog bite cases, experience matters. At Schlachman, Belsky, Weiner & Davey, P.A., we have a long history of successfully representing victims and dog owners alike in complex dog bite cases throughout Maryland.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack, or if you are facing legal action due to a dog bite, we encourage you to contact us for a free consultation.
Contact Our Maryland Dog Bite Attorneys Today
At Schlachman, Belsky, Weiner & Davey, P.A., we are committed to protecting the rights of dog bite victims and dog owners. Whether you are seeking compensation for your injuries or need a defense against a dog bite claim, our skilled attorneys are here to help.
Call (410) 685-2022 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation. We will review your case, explain your legal options, and guide you through the next steps to secure the compensation or defense you deserve.
