What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Maryland
The other day I was in my fenced backyard along with my two dogs (german shepherd and yellow lab). I was working on the landscaping when my close friend came walking up to the fence. Immediately my dogs began barking at him because they did not know who he was. He approached the gate, which has a "beware of dog" sign posted in order to keep children away from my yard, and reached over the fence in order to open the gate from the inside. I began walking over to keep the dogs from jumping on the gate. I was about 20 feet away when my german shepherd jumped up and bit his hand while he was trying to unlock the fence. He suffered a significant bite wound to his finger which became infected and he was required to stay in the hospital for a couple days receiving antibiotics and surgery. My friend has been completely understanding of this situation and in no way has given me reason to believe he is considering a lawsuit or taking action against me or the dog. I am still terrified and feel horrible about everything. I wanted to know what, if any, assistance he could receive from me if I filed a homeowners insurance claim? Also, could I be held liable? Could my friend's health insurance come after me for damages? My german shepherd has never bitten anyone in the past. She is however very territorial and protective of the home and our yard. If she is off of our property, she is extremely friendly, calm, and NEVER aggressive towards other people or dogs. Any advice is greatly appreciated. Thank you!
The other day I was in my fenced backyard along with my two dogs (german shepherd and yellow lab). I was working on the landscaping when my close friend came walking up to the fence. Immediately my dogs began barking at him because they did not know who he was. He approached the gate, which has a "beware of dog" sign posted in order to keep children away from my yard, and reached over the fence in order to open the gate from the inside. I began walking over to keep the dogs from jumping on the gate. I was about 20 feet away when my german shepherd jumped up and bit his hand while he was trying to unlock the fence. He suffered a significant bite wound to his finger which became infected and he was required to stay in the hospital for a couple days receiving antibiotics and surgery. My friend has been completely understanding of this situation and in no way has given me reason to believe he is considering a lawsuit or taking action against me or the dog. I am still terrified and feel horrible about everything. I wanted to know what, if any, assistance he could receive from me if I filed a homeowners insurance claim? Also, could I be held liable? Could my friend's health insurance come after me for damages? My german shepherd has never bitten anyone in the past. She is however very territorial and protective of the home and our yard. If she is off of our property, she is extremely friendly, calm, and NEVER aggressive towards other people or dogs. Any advice is greatly appreciated. Thank you!
