Skip To Content

My Dog Isn’t Vicious, I Can Prove It

March 4, 2014 By Jennifer A. King

The Maryland Senate recently passed Senate Bill 247 which would overturn Tracey v. Solesky, a 2012 decision of Maryland’s highest court imposing strict liability for owners of pit bulls. This legislation is not specific to pit bulls and establishes that an injury or death caused by a dog bite, regardless of breed, creates a rebuttable presumption that the owner knew or should have known the dog had dangerous or vicious propensities.  Additionally, this bill imposes strict liability on owners for attacks by dogs who are “roaming” or “running at large,” except where the victim is trespassing, engaging in criminal activity, or teased, tormented, abused or provoked the dog. Remember to check our Blog for updates as this legislation moves to the House of Delegates for consideration.