Dog bites can cause serious physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial losses. Knowing the average settlement amounts can help you understand potential compensation for your case. Our dog bite lawyers in Maryland can evaluate your claim and help you pursue the maximum settlement.
The Maryland Dog Bite Law
Maryland follows strict liability laws for dog bites. This means dog owners are generally responsible for injuries caused by their dogs. Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical treatment, lost wages, pain and suffering, scarring, or permanent injuries. Exceptions may apply if the victim provoked the dog, was trespassing, or committing a crime on the dog owner’s property (Maryland §3-1901).
Injuries Covered in Dog Bite Claims
- Puncture wounds: Risk of infection if untreated
- Fractures or dislocations: Especially hands or fingers
- Scarring: Facial scars can be permanent
- Nerve damage: From deep bite wounds
- Rabies risk: Requires prompt medical treatment
- Tetanus risk: Possible if the wound is contaminated
- Psychological trauma: PTSD, anxiety, or fear of dogs
Always report a dog bite to medical personnel and animal control. Keep records of medical bills, lost wages, and other financial losses for your case .
Factors That Affect Dog Bite Settlement Amounts
Several factors influence how much a victim can recover in a Maryland dog bite settlement:
- Severity of the injury
- Economic damages (medical bills, lost wages)
- Non-economic damages (pain, suffering, emotional distress)
- Evidence of negligence or failure to restrain the dog
- Dog owner’s insurance coverage limits
Examples of Dog Bite Settlements in Maryland
Examples of resolved cases in Maryland show a wide range of settlements depending on severity:
- 2022: German Shepherd bite, victim awarded $133,322
- 2019: Pit bull attack in a nursing home, facial injuries, permanent scarring, mobility restrictions, settlement $759,560
- Latz v. Parr: liability may apply to caretakers who handle a dog regularly on the premises
Severity Levels of Dog Bite Injuries
- Level 1: Dog shows aggression but no skin contact
- Level 2: Minor contact without breaking the skin; compensation possible for emotional distress
- Level 3: Skin broken but not deep; usually medical costs and pain/suffering compensation
- Level 4: Deep bites or bruising; settlements increase substantially
- Level 5: Multiple Level 4 bites; higher settlements due to risk of disability or disfigurement
- Level 6: Fatal or life-threatening bites
How Dog Bite Settlements Are Calculated
Settlement amounts are based on medical records, lost wages, insurance coverage, severity of injuries, and proof of negligence. Prompt documentation and legal representation can maximize compensation. Insurance policies often cover medical costs and lost wages. Complex cases with permanent injuries may require a lawyer to ensure fair compensation.
Maryland Does Not Follow a “One Bite” Rule
Maryland’s strict liability law means victims do not need to prove prior bites. The dog owner can still raise defenses, but the law presumes liability when the dog causes injury.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Settlements
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What is the average dog bite settlement in Maryland?
Settlements vary widely depending on injury severity, treatment, scarring, lost wages, and insurance. National data shows an average around $164,000 with a median of $55,000 .
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Do children receive higher settlements?
Yes, because injuries often involve the face, head, or hands, and can result in long-term disfigurement or emotional trauma.
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What factors increase a dog bite settlement?
Severity of injury, evidence of negligence, permanent scarring, hospitalization, lost wages, and proof of pain and suffering.
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Do I need a lawyer to negotiate a dog bite settlement?
Yes. An experienced Maryland dog bite lawyer ensures proper documentation, evaluates fair compensation, and negotiates with insurance for maximum payout.
Contact The Law Offices of Alex Poberesky for Dog Bite Cases
If you or a loved one were injured in a dog bite incident, contact The Law Offices of Alex Poberesky, P.A. Our Maryland dog bite lawyers can review your case, calculate potential compensation, and guide you through the settlement process.
Call (410) 484-0400 today for a free consultation.
