Pennsylvania Dog Bite Lawyer
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals estimates that between 37 and 47 percent of all U.S. households include at least one dog. It is not surprising then that approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur annually in the U.S.
When dogs bite, they can injure, disfigure, maim, or even kill people. In 2015, 34 people died from dog bite-related injuries in the United States.
A Pennsylvania dog bite lawyer helps victims of dog bite injuries receive reimbursement for medical expenses and property damage as well as compensation for lost wages and pain and suffering. If you or a loved one were injured following a dog bite, reach out to an accomplished personal injury attorney.
Dogs Bite Under Stress
A dog can bite another dog, another animal, or a human of any age. Dogs tend to bite to defend themselves and when they are startled. Dogs also bite to defend their puppies, territory, food, or toys.
Responsible Parties Are Strictly Liable
When a person is bitten by a dog, it may not be immediately known who owns the dog or was responsible for supervising the dog when the dog bite happened. A Pennsylvania dog bite lawyer works to identify the dog owner and all the responsible parties.
Every state has its own laws with respect to recovery for injuries caused by a dog following a dog bite. Some states protect dog owners from liability the first time their dog bites someone if the dog owner did not know or have reason to believe that their dog was dangerous.
This rule, often called the “one bite rule” or “first bite rule” does not apply in Pennsylvania. Instead, Pennsylvania dog owners are held strictly liable for any personal injuries or property damage caused by their dog.
Victims Recover Medical Care Expenses
Equally unknown at the time of the dog bite attack is the full extent of the victim’s injuries. Victims experience cuts, lacerations, bruises, broken bones, and disfigurement, as well as suffering pain. An infection may develop in the wound and surgery may be required to repair damaged skin. In addition to recovery for medical care and treatment, a Pennsylvania dog bite attorney helps victims recover compensation for missed work, pain and suffering, and property damage.
Dog Bite Claims Must Be Timely
The time to file a dog bite claim starts when the dog bite occurs. Under Section 55 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, a dog bite victim has two years to file a claim or lawsuit against the responsible parties, or they may lose the right to recover for any bodily injuries or property damage that occurred as a result of the dog bite. An experienced attorney could help a victim with filing a claim promptly.
How a Pennsylvania Dog Bite Attorney Could Help
Victims of dog bites can suffer lacerations and injuries to muscles, tendons, nerves, or the bone as well as infections. If the wound is deep, the dog bite may even cause disfiguration, requiring reconstructive surgery over many years.
An attorney specializing in Pennsylvania dog bite claims will advise and protect your rights by filing a timely personal injury claim and seeking recovery for your injuries and any property damage. To schedule an evaluation of your dog bite claim, contact a Pennsylvania dog bite lawyer today.
