Can I Sue My Ex for Dog Bite Injuries in Owings Mills?

Most animal attacks are “owner-directed.” In other words, these are family dogs that attack their owners and other family members – including children, seniors, and other relatives within the same household. While it is certainly possible to experience a dog attack from a stranger’s ill-behaved animal, the data shows these incidents are not as common. If you have experienced a dog attack, there is a strong chance it was caused by the “family pooch.” What if the dog belongs to your ex? Can you sue them for your dog bite in Owings Mills?

Suing for Injuries to Your Child After a Dog Attack 

If your child has suffered injuries due to a dog owned by your ex, you can sue. For example, your ex may share custody of a child with you, and the attack may have occurred while your child was staying with them. Under normal circumstances, it would be impossible to sue for injuries caused by the “family dog” – because you can only sue the owner. If you own the animal, suing yourself obviously makes no sense.

However, the situation is markedly different if your ex owns the animal. Assuming that you are no longer living in the same household and sharing expenses, it may make sense to sue your ex and attempt to recover compensation for your child’s medical expenses.

Suing for a Dog Bite After a Breakup

You might also sue for injuries that you have sustained personally. For example, the dog may have attacked you while picking up items you left behind at your ex’s residence.

One thing to consider is whether you receive financial support from your ex. For example, you might receive child support from your ex if you share custody. In this situation, a lawsuit may leave them in dire financial straits – and could make them less able to pay your child support in the future. They could theoretically petition to reduce their child support, as a lawsuit may represent a “change in circumstance.” The same basic logic applies to spousal support (alimony) after a divorce.

Another option may be to sue a landlord for allowing the attack. For example, you might have visited your ex’s apartment to collect items you left behind after a breakup. If you were attacked by your ex’s dog in the process, you may have the ability to hold a landlord liable. However, this is only possible if the landlord was negligent in some way. For example, they might have known that the animal was vicious but allowed it to continue living there.

Find a Qualified Dog Bite Lawyer in Owings Mills 

If you’ve been searching for a qualified, experienced Baltimore dog bite lawyer, look no further than Furman Honick Law. Over the years, we have helped numerous injured plaintiffs throughout Maryland – including those injured by dangerous dogs. We know how traumatic and life-altering these incidents can be – whether the attack affected you or someone you love. Reach out today and speak with a partner for a free case evaluation.

Sources: 

ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8093277/

sequoiahumane.org/protective-jealous-and-possessive-behaviors