Dog bites can cause serious injuries, and Maryland law holds dog owners responsible for damages caused by their pets. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, it is important to know how to prove liability in a Maryland dog bite case. In this blog post, we will discuss the steps you can take to prove liability and seek compensation for your injuries.
Gather Evidence
The first step in proving liability in a dog bite case is to gather evidence. This can include medical records, photographs of the injury, witness statements, and any other documentation that can help prove that the dog owner was negligent. You should also document the circumstances of the attack, including the location, time of day, and any factors that may have contributed to the attack, such as the dog being off-leash or the owner failing to control the dog.
Establish Strict Liability
Maryland is a strict liability state when it comes to dog bites. This means that the owner of a dog is liable for damages caused by the dog, regardless of whether or not the owner knew the dog was dangerous or had a history of biting. To establish strict liability, you must show that the dog in question caused your injury and that you were lawfully on the property where the attack occurred.
Prove Negligence
In addition to strict liability, you may also be able to prove negligence on the part of the dog owner. Negligence means that the owner failed to take reasonable care to prevent the dog from causing harm. This can include allowing the dog to run loose, failing to properly restrain the dog, or failing to warn others of the dog’s dangerous tendencies. To prove negligence, you must demonstrate that the dog owner knew or should have known that the dog was dangerous and that the owner failed to take appropriate action to prevent an attack.
Seek Damages
Once liability has been established, you can seek damages for your injuries. Damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other costs related to the injury. It is important to keep careful records of all expenses related to the injury, including medical bills, lost income, and other costs.
Hire an Experienced Attorney
Navigating a dog bite case can be complex, and having an experienced attorney on your side can help you obtain the compensation you deserve. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. They can also help you understand your legal options and guide you through the legal process.
Be Aware of Time Limits
In Maryland, there is a statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim. This means that you have a limited amount of time to file a claim after the incident. It is important to be aware of these time limits and take action as soon as possible to ensure that you do not miss your opportunity to seek compensation.
Follow Medical Treatment
If you have been bitten by a dog, it is important to seek medical treatment as soon as possible. This not only ensures that you receive appropriate medical care, but also creates a record of your injuries that can be used as evidence in your case. It is also important to follow all medical treatment and keep detailed records of your treatment and expenses.
Proving liability in a Maryland dog bite case requires gathering evidence, establishing strict liability, and potentially proving negligence on the part of the dog owner. It is important to hire an experienced attorney, be aware of time limits, and follow medical treatment. With the right legal representation and evidence, you can seek the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
At Alpert Schreyer, LLC, we can provide comprehensive legal representation to help you prove liability in a Maryland dog bite case. We have extensive experience in handling these types of cases and understand the laws and legal procedures involved. Our attorneys will conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence and establish liability, whether through strict liability or proving negligence on the part of the dog owner. We will also negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries. If necessary, we are prepared to litigate your case in court to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.