How Maryland treats dog injuries

Courts and Judicial Proceedings 3-1901 governs personal injury or death caused by a dog. The Nolo guide to Maryland dog-bite laws says it covers all injuries a dog causes, not just bites, and creates a rebuttable presumption that an owner knew of the dog's dangerous propensity. Commentary from Marks and Harrison commentary on the statute describes strict liability in subsection (c) where the dog is running at large, and notes that the statute does not define that phrase.

The same commentary says the statute does not displace common-law claims or defenses, so an injured person can still sue for negligence when a dog was not at large. The Maryland People's Law Library page on dog bites adds that Maryland law does not single out breeds, although some counties have their own breed rules.

The Criminal Law 10-619 defines a dangerous dog, including one that without provocation killed or severely injured a person. The Nolo guide reports that an owner who breaks the rules may face a misdemeanor charge and a fine up to $2,500.

Tell your insurer what you plan to own and ask for the answer in writing. Check your lease or HOA before committing; state law does not override them.