Dog attacks can be sudden, traumatic, and life-changing. Whether the injury is mild or severe, victims are often left with medical bills, emotional distress, and questions about what to do next.
One of the most common questions we hear at Holzman & Dickriede is: “How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Maryland?” The answer to this question is not just about timelines—it is about protecting your rights, preserving critical evidence, and ensuring you get the compensation you need to heal and move forward.
If you or a loved one has been bitten or attacked by a dog in Baltimore or anywhere in Maryland, time is not on your side. Knowing your legal rights, understanding the applicable laws, and taking action within the required timeframe is essential. As experienced Baltimore personal injury attorneys, we help clients across the region get clarity and results after dog bite injuries.
Maryland’s Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Claims
In Maryland, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including dog bite cases, is three years from the date of the incident. You generally have 36 months to initiate a civil lawsuit against the liable dog owner or party. If you fail to file your case within this window, the court will most likely dismiss it, regardless of how severe your injuries were or how strong your case might be.
This three-year limitation is codified under Maryland Courts & Judicial Proceedings § 5–101, which governs most tort-based personal injury lawsuits.
We advise victims never to delay consulting with a dog bite accident lawyer in Baltimore, MD. Even though three years may seem like a long time, waiting can seriously hurt your case.
Why Timing Matters More Than You Think
While the law gives you up to three years to file your claim, that does not mean you should wait that long. There are several compelling reasons to act as soon as possible after a dog bite:
1. Evidence Disappears Quickly
Photographs of your injuries, the location of the attack, and video surveillance (if available) are all strongest when collected immediately. Witnesses may move or forget key details. The property’s condition where the bite occurred may change, and the dog may no longer be available for examination.
2. Medical Records Need to Be Preserved
Early medical intervention protects your health and creates a clear paper trail linking your injuries to the dog attack. Delays in treatment can weaken your claim and give the defense a reason to argue that something else caused your injuries.
3. Insurance Companies Act Fast
Dog bite claims often involve homeowners’ insurance or renters’ insurance policies. These companies have teams of adjusters and attorneys trained to minimize payouts. They may contact you quickly, and what you say could affect your case. Having a Baltimore personal injury lawyer on your side early in the process ensures your rights are protected from day one.
Special Rules for Dog Bite Claims Involving Children
When the victim of a dog bite is a child under the age of 18, the three-year statute of limitations does not begin until the child turns 18. This means the child has until their 21st birthday to file a personal injury claim. However, the child’s parent or guardian can still bring a claim on their behalf immediately after the injury.
Waiting for the child to turn 18 is rarely advisable. Substantial evidence can disappear, and the ability to negotiate a significant settlement is often best shortly after the incident. We recommend speaking with an injury attorney in Baltimore as soon as the child is medically stable.
What If the Dog Owner Works for the Government?
Different legal timelines and procedures may apply if the liable dog owner is a government employee or the incident occurred on government property. Under the Maryland Tort Claims Act (MTCA), victims may need to file a notice of claim within one year of the injury. Missing this critical deadline could forfeit your right to seek compensation.
Similarly, if your claim is against a local municipality, like the City of Baltimore, you may need to provide notice under the Local Government Tort Claims Act (LGTCA), which also has strict deadlines and filing requirements. As your dog bite accident lawyer in Baltimore, MD, we will evaluate whether government immunity laws affect your case and ensure all procedural deadlines are met.
Understanding Maryland’s Dog Bite Liability Laws
Maryland follows a form of “strict liability” for dog bite cases under Maryland Code § 3-1901. This law states that if a dog runs at large and bites someone, the owner is liable for the resulting injuries. This presumption can only be rebutted if the owner proves that the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing.
In practical terms, this law makes it easier for victims to pursue compensation. You do not have to prove that the dog had a history of aggression or that the owner acted negligently. However, the dog owner still has the opportunity to defend themselves by showing that they caused or contributed to the incident.
A skilled Baltimore dog bite attorney can anticipate these defenses and build a case demonstrating the full extent of the owner’s responsibility.
Common Injuries From Dog Bites
The injuries from a dog attack can be far more serious than most people realize. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur yearly in the United States, with about 800,000 requiring medical attention.
Some of the most common dog bite injuries include:
- Puncture wounds and lacerations
- Nerve damage
- Broken bones
- Facial disfigurement
- Rabies or infection
- Scarring and permanent disability
- Psychological trauma, such as PTSD or anxiety
Severe injuries can require multiple surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term psychological care. That is why it is critical to work with a Baltimore personal injury lawyer who understands the medical and financial toll a dog bite can take.
What Damages Can Be Recovered?
When you file a dog bite claim in Maryland, you may be eligible to recover compensation for economic and non-economic damages. These include:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Disfigurement and scarring
- Property damage
- Loss of quality of life
The exact value of your claim depends on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your daily life, and the strength of your evidence. We use expert medical testimony, economic reports, and real-life impact statements to ensure that your losses are fully documented and valued.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Dog Bite Claim?
Technically, you are allowed to file a claim without a lawyer, but it is not recommended. Insurance companies are not on your side. Their goal is to settle quickly and cheaply. They may downplay your injuries, dispute liability, or blame you for the attack.
Hiring a Baltimore dog bite attorney means putting someone in your corner who understands the law, the tactics used by insurers, and the evidence needed to win your case. At Holzman & Dickriede, we have helped many clients recover rightful compensation after suffering preventable dog attacks.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Dog Bite
- Seek Immediate Medical Care: Your health is the top priority, and medical records are crucial to your claim.
- Report the Bite: Contact local animal control or law enforcement to file a report.
- Document the Scene: Take pictures of your injuries, the dog, the location, and property damage.
- Identify the Dog Owner: Get the owner’s name, address, and contact details.
- Get Witness Information: Collect their name and phone number if anyone saw the incident.
- Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Alone: They may get you to say things that hurt your case.
- Call a Lawyer: The sooner you speak with a dog bite accident lawyer in Baltimore, MD, the better your chances of success.
How We Help Dog Bite Victims in Maryland
At Holzman & Dickriede Attorneys at Law, we offer personalized representation with a proven record of results. When you work with our firm, you get:
- A team that listens to your story and treats you with respect
- Full investigation into the circumstances of the bite
- Aggressive negotiation with insurance carriers
- Trial-ready preparation for maximum leverage
- No upfront fees—we only get paid if we win your case
We are proud to be trusted advocates for dog bite victims and their families throughout Maryland.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Claims in Maryland
Can I file a claim if the dog did not bite me but caused another injury?
Yes. In Maryland, a claim can be filed for injuries caused by a dog even without a bite. For example, if a dog knocked you down, causing broken bones or a concussion, you may still have a valid personal injury claim. Liability depends on the facts of the case, not just whether a bite occurred.
What if I was bitten by a stray dog?
Claims involving stray dogs can be more difficult. If the dog has no identifiable owner, it may be challenging to pursue compensation. However, liability may still apply if a third party, such as a property owner, landlord, or animal control agency, was negligent in allowing the dog to roam freely. Speak with a Baltimore personal injury lawyer to explore your options.
Can I sue if the dog bite happened at a friend’s or family’s house?
Yes. Dog bite claims often involve friends or relatives, and compensation is typically paid through homeowners’ or renters’ insurance, not directly out of the victim’s pocket. This allows victims to recover damages without financially harming loved ones.
Does Maryland have any leash or restraint laws that affect dog bite liability?
Yes. Many counties and municipalities, including Baltimore City, have leash laws that require dogs to be under control in public spaces. If the dog was off-leash or roaming freely, this could strengthen your case by establishing negligence or violation of local ordinances.
Can punitive damages be awarded in Maryland dog bite cases?
Punitive damages are rare and typically require proof of gross negligence or malicious intent. Punitive damages might be possible if the dog owner knowingly allowed a dangerous dog to roam. Your injury attorney in Baltimore can assess this based on the circumstances.
Do Not Wait to File Your Claim
Dog bite injuries are traumatic and often leave a lasting mark—physically, emotionally, and financially. Maryland’s statute of limitations gives you three years to act, but the best outcomes happen when you take action immediately.
Our team at Holzman & Dickriede is ready to help you understand your rights, investigate your case, and fight for the compensation you deserve. If a dog has injured you or a loved one, contact us today for a free consultation.
We are experienced, compassionate, and relentless in pursuit of justice. Let us put our knowledge to work for you.
