Although considered “man’s best friend,” dogs can become aggressive with little or no warning. A dog bite can result in serious infections, endangering the life of the victim. As such, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania makes dog owners strictly liable for any harm suffered by victims. This is a change from the prior law, which only held owners liable if the dog showed any propensity for aggression or violence. Although exceptions may apply, state law will most often require the owner to compensate an injured person fully for any losses incurred by the attack.
At HGSK Injury Lawyers, our legal team understands what is at stake. If you have recently been attacked by a canine, our Holland dog bite attorneys are here to safeguard your rights. Acquiring representation as soon as possible can help preserve your right to file a claim.
What Steps are Taken if a Dog Bites Someone?
Under the Pennsylvania dog bite law, a canine that attacks a human being will be detained for 10 days pending medical test results. If the dog does show signs of rabies or tests positive for the disease, the investigating officer will notify the victim immediately. Although rabies is treatable immediately after exposure, once symptoms appear, it is often too late. If you believe that there is a risk of exposure following a canine attack, it is important that you speak with your doctor.
Pennsylvania Dog Bite Law
Unlike some states that allow an owner to avoid liability for a dog’s first bite, this does not apply in the Keystone State. Pennsylvania law holds owners strictly liable, meaning that they may be held accountable regardless of fault. Accordingly, Pennsylvania law requires that dog owners pay for any and all medical expenses incurred by an attack victim. This can come as quite a shock, especially when a dog has shown no prior signs of aggression.
A dog that has bitten or attacked another person may be considered dangerous under state law if the following apply:
- The dog caused another person serious injury on public or private property without the victim provoking the animal.
- The dog killed or inflicted serious injury on another domestic animal (dog or cat) while not on the owner’s property.
- The dog attacked another person without provocation.
- The dog was used in the commission of a crime.
- The dog has a history of attacking other persons, dogs, or cats, without any evidence of provocation.
Unfortunately, you may be found partially liable for the attack in limited circumstances. This includes if you were provoking the dog, were trespassing at the time of the attack, you had a job in which you assumed a certain level of risk (such as being a dog walker), or the dog escaped from a properly fenced yard.
Above all, the most common defense used in dog attack claims is provocation. The owner may claim that you were teasing or abusing the animal, which provoked the attack. The courts will look at whether your actions caused the dog to lash out. Most of the time, this claim is based on weak findings, made in an attempt by the dog owner to avoid paying what they should. A dog bite lawyer will find any inconsistencies to argue against such a claim.
Why Should I Get Legal Support Following a Dog Bite?
Following a dog bite, your top priority should be seeking medical treatment. This will reduce your risk of infection and prevent complications. The aftermath of an attack involves much more than being treated for your physical wounds, with accident victims experiencing post-traumatic stress and other emotional losses. It is important that you receive whatever physical or psychological help you need to feel like yourself again.
By hiring a dog bite lawyer, you will have someone who can handle the paperwork on your behalf. If your case is taken to trial, a dog bite attorney from our team will ensure that court forms are filed on time. Besides ensuring that your matter is handled smoothly, a dog bite lawyer will advocate passionately for you to help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Speak with a Holland Dog Bite Attorney Today
Being attacked by a dog can leave victims with irreparable wounds, causing emotional, physical, and financial hardship. Medical bills can incur at a fast rate, making it difficult to keep up with the expenses while attempting to get the treatment you desperately need. At HGSK Injury Lawyers, our legal team understands the anxiety that dog bite victims experience. If you have recently fallen victim to a canine attack, our Holland dog bite lawyers are happy to assist you.
To learn more about your legal options, do not hesitate to contact HGSK Injury Lawyers online or by phone at (267) 551-8782 today. We offer free consultations, scheduled at your convenience.