Legal Question in Personal Injury in Maryland

This question relates to personal injury sustained by falling in the public hallway of an apartment building after being approached by an unleashed, barking dog while the dog's owner was present and failed to control it. The victim is an elderly woman. As the dog approached her barking, she became fearful and started backing away. She lost her footing and fell; this resulted in a fractured pelvis that required hospitalization and time spent in a rehab facility.

What are the laws governing unleashed dogs in public hallways in apartment buildings?

Can the victim sue the dog's owner for personal injuries, pain and suffering and medical costs?

What are the chances of the victim getting compensated?

Thanks


Asked on 1/16/12, 3:07 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Walter E. Laake, Jr. Joseph Greenwald & Laake Pa

You do have the right to pursue a claim against the dog's owner/handler at the time of the incident. You also have an excellant chance of recovering for your damages ie medical bills, pain & suffering and permanent injury. More importantly you have nothing to lose by retaining an attorney to help you in this matter especially if it is one that is only reimbursed for his out of pocket expenses from any successful recovery (like our firm).

Please call me tomorrow and I would be happy to help you.

Walter Laake

www.walterlaake.com

301-220-2200

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Answered on 1/16/12, 3:32 pm
G. Joseph Holthaus III Law Offices of G. Joseph Holthaus

The breed of dog and county in which this occurred is important. Also, I'd like to know any prior incidents associated with the dog as well as the whether the elderly person has problems with dogs. Call me for a free analysis as to whether you should bring a suit for damages.

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Answered on 1/16/12, 4:38 pm


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