SOUTHERN MARYLAND PERSONAL INJURY LAWYERSExpertise In
Dog Bites

DOG BITE ATTORNEYSWhat Should You Do After A Dog Bite?

Many people in the U.S. are dog owners, so many of us spend time around others’ dogs, but not everyone realizes how serious an animal bite can be. Bites can cause scars and permanent damage, as well as emotional trauma. However, you may be able to recover compensation for your injuries.

TOP RATED PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYSNavigating the Aftermath of a Dog Bite: Know Your Rights and Next Steps

Dog bites can lead to more than just physical scars; they can result in emotional trauma and hefty medical bills. It's essential to ensure that you take the right measures after a dog bite to protect your health and rights.

1. Prioritize Your Medical Well-being. Never underestimate a dog bite, no matter its size or initial appearance. Prompt medical attention is crucial, not just to treat the immediate injury but also to prevent infections or complications that can arise from animal bites.

2. Document Every Detail. It’s crucial to obtain the dog owner’s contact details and any available vaccination records. Equally important is gathering information from witnesses. Their accounts can provide an objective perspective that might prove invaluable should you pursue legal recourse.

3. Engage an Attorney Specialized in Dog Bites. The repercussions of a dog bite can be long-lasting, both physically and financially. Engaging a seasoned attorney ensures that you understand your rights and potential avenues for compensation. With spiraling medical costs and the possibility of needing ongoing treatment, it’s vital to have an expert by your side, advocating for your best interests.

At Haskell & Dyer, we understand the intricacies of dog bite cases and are committed to guiding you through every step, ensuring that you’re not left shouldering the burden of someone else’s negligence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What rights do I have if I've been bitten by someone else's dog in Maryland?

In Maryland, dog owners are typically held strictly liable for any injuries their dogs cause, unless the victim was trespassing, provoking the dog, or engaged in a criminal act. This means that, in most cases, you have the right to seek compensation for medical expenses, emotional trauma, lost wages, and other related damages. The team at Haskell & Dyer can guide you through the nuances of Maryland’s dog bite laws to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

How soon should I contact an attorney after a dog bite incident?

It’s advisable to reach out to an attorney as soon as possible after the incident. Immediate legal guidance can help ensure that crucial evidence is preserved, witnesses are identified, and the appropriate steps are taken to strengthen your claim. Remember, there are also statutory deadlines for filing personal injury claims, so timely action is paramount.

What if the dog owner claims their dog has never shown aggression before? Does that affect my claim?

In Maryland, even if the dog hasn’t shown prior aggression, the owner is generally held strictly liable for injuries their dog causes. A claim of “first-time aggression” by the owner does not automatically absolve them of responsibility. It’s essential to understand the specifics of Maryland’s dog bite laws and potential exceptions. The team at Haskell & Dyer is well-versed in these nuances and will work diligently to ensure that the dog owner is held accountable, regardless of the dog’s prior behavior.