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Animal and dog injury law in Maryland governs situations where a person or another animal is harmed due to the actions of a dog or other pets. These cases commonly involve dog bites, attacks, or injuries resulting from animals being out of control. Maryland’s legal framework establishes the responsibilities of pet owners and sets out possible legal remedies for victims of animal-related incidents. Whether you are a pet owner or a person who has suffered an injury, understanding these laws is important to protect your rights and interests.
People may need a lawyer for a variety of reasons after experiencing or being accused of an animal or dog injury in Maryland. Here are some common situations where legal help is essential:
- If you or a loved one has been bitten or attacked by someone else’s dog, leading to injuries that require medical attention. - When a pet owner receives notice of a lawsuit or claim alleging their dog or other pet caused harm to a person or another animal. - If an insurance company contacts you regarding an incident involving an animal and you need guidance on your rights and responsibilities. - When an animal attack results in emotional trauma or loss of wages due to missed work or long-term disabilities. - If local authorities determine that your dog is "dangerous" or "vicious," which may lead to fines, restrictions, or requirements to euthanize your pet. - If an incident leads to criminal charges or citations under local or state animal control ordinances.
Maryland law deals with dog and animal-related injuries through a combination of state statutes and local ordinances. Key aspects include:
- Strict liability for dog owners: Under Maryland Code Section 3-1901, a dog owner is presumed responsible when their dog injures someone, whether by biting or by any other behavior, unless the victim was trespassing, teasing, or committing another wrongful act. - One bite rule modification: Maryland does not require a dog to have bitten someone previously for an owner to be liable. The presumption of liability applies unless the owner can prove otherwise. - Leash laws: Many counties and municipalities enforce local leash laws or dangerous dog ordinances. Violating these can increase liability in injury cases. - Comparative negligence: Maryland follows a strict form of contributory negligence. This means that if the injured person is found to have contributed to their own injury, even slightly, they may not recover damages. - Time limits for filing claims: Most personal injury claims in Maryland, including those for animal injuries, must be filed within three years of the incident.
Seek medical attention, document your injuries with photos, obtain contact information from all parties involved, report the incident to animal control, and keep records of all related expenses.
Usually, the dog owner is presumed liable unless they can prove the victim was trespassing, teasing the dog, or otherwise acting in a way that contributed to the incident.
Maryland’s law does not require prior knowledge of viciousness for liability. Even if it is the dog’s first incident, the owner can be held responsible.
Yes, although dog bites are most common, injuries caused by other animals can also be the basis for a personal injury claim, depending on the circumstances.
Maryland follows contributory negligence. If you are found to be even slightly at fault, you may be barred from recovering any damages.
A landlord may be liable if they knew about the dangerous propensities of the tenant’s dog and failed to take action, but typically the dog owner is primarily responsible.
Yes, the statute of limitations for personal injury in Maryland is generally three years from the date of the incident.
Local authorities will investigate. The dog may be quarantined and, if deemed dangerous, subject to additional restrictions, fencing requirements, or, in extreme cases, euthanasia.
Many homeowner’s insurance policies include coverage for dog bites, but aggressive breeds or previous bite history may be excluded. It is important to review the policy details.
Compensation depends on the extent of injuries, medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other factors. A personal injury lawyer can help estimate potential damages.
For more information, support, or to report an animal incident, consider the following Maryland-based resources:
- Maryland Department of Health: Rabies and Animal Control - Local county animal control agencies (such as Baltimore Animal Control, Montgomery County Animal Services, or Prince George’s County Animal Services) - The Humane Society of the United States - Maryland State Office - Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service (MVLS) - Maryland State Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service
If you have been hurt by an animal or are facing legal action because your pet caused an injury, acting quickly is crucial. Collect all evidence, medical records, and witness statements. Reach out to a local lawyer with experience in animal and dog injury law to discuss your case and learn about your options. Legal professionals can protect your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and help you seek fair compensation or defend against unjust claims. Most personal injury attorneys in Maryland offer free consultations, so do not hesitate to seek professional advice tailored to your situation.
