Smithsburg, Maryland Dog Bite Injury Attorney

Supportive Lawyer for Victims of Dog Bites in Smithsburg, MD

When a dog suddenly snaps, the resulting injuries can be traumatic. If you or someone you care about has been attacked by a pet dog in Smithsburg, a personal injury lawyer can help you take legal action against the owner and obtain the compensation you are rightfully entitled to.

At Serafini Law, we represent victims of dog bites in personal injury claims, fighting for a fair outcome through sound negotiation tactics. Attorney Andrew Serafini is a solo practitioner with over a decade of experience, and he is driven by his commitment to justice for injury victims. When you work with us, you can take heart that you will receive comprehensive, individualized legal services focused on protecting your best interests.

Fault and Responsibility for Dog Bites

You will usually be able to secure compensation for a dog bite injury, since Maryland law states that owners are strictly liable for their dogs' behavior. This means that it will not be necessary to prove that a dog's owner was negligent, and the owner will typically be responsible for compensating you, even if the dog in question has never bitten someone before. Claiming that the owner was unaware that their dog was dangerous is not a valid defense against a dog bite claim.

There are some cases where a dog's owner may be able to contest a claim. For instance, if you were committing a crime or trespassing onto private property, you will most likely be unable to hold the owner responsible for their dog's action. However, this defense is unlikely to be brought up in most cases. The more commonly invoked defense by owners is that the victim somehow provoked the attack by teasing, abusing, or tormenting the dog. At Serafini Law, our attorney can argue against these defenses, providing the necessary evidence to show that the dog's owner is responsible for the harm you have suffered.

Compensation for Dog Bites

Depending on the size of the dog and the viciousness of the attack, your injuries from a dog bite could be very severe, possibly requiring surgery. A claim for compensation can cover the costs of your medical treatment, including rabies shots or other emergency treatments. Moreover, you could be forced out of work for a significant period while you recover from your injuries, so your compensation should address your lost wages and reduced earning capacity. Collectively, your financial losses after a dog bite are referred to as your economic damages.

But what about the damages that cannot be tallied on an itemized bill? You may be left mentally scarred after an accident, dealing with post-traumatic stress and symptoms of anxiety. If your injuries left you permanently disfigured or disabled, you might suffer from a reduced ability to enjoy your life. Rest assured, you can be made whole for your pain and suffering after a dog bite under the category of non-economic damages.

A comprehensive claim should take into account the totality of your damages. At Serafini Law, we will make sure that no injuries or damages, no matter how small, are left out of your claim. When we say that we will advocate for full compensation for you, we mean it.

Meet With a Smithsburg Dog Bite Lawyer

When dog owners fail to exercise caution with their pets, people can get hurt. If you or a loved one has been attacked by a dog in Smithsburg, Serafini Law can take legal action to make sure you recover real compensation. Attorney Andrew Serafini has been recognized for his excellence in personal injury cases, including being named an Elite Lawyer. To schedule a free consultation with our firm today, call our offices at 240-744-1600 or reach out to us online.