Understanding Your Rights in Dog Bite Claims
When spring arrives in Pennsylvania, sunny afternoons bring neighbors outdoors to enjoy the season. You’ll see children riding bikes, barbecues firing up, and, of course, dogs being walked more often. While most dogs are naturally friendly and affectionate, dog bites can sometimes occur unintentionally.
If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog, it’s important to understand your rights and the legal protections available to you. This article will explore Pennsylvania’s dog laws, what steps to take after a dog bite, and how the law offices of Lepley, Engelman, Yaw, and Wilk can support you throughout the legal process.
Understanding Dog Laws in Pennsylvania
While dogs are considered ‘man’s best friend’ owning one entails significant responsibilities. Pennsylvania enforces strict dog ownership laws to protect public safety and promote animal welfare.
Pennsylvania’s Leash and Confinement Laws
Under the Keystone state’s leash and confinement law, all dog owners are required to always keep their four-legged friends under control. This typically means keeping dogs on a leash or confined to the owner’s property. Allowing a dog to roam freely without proper supervision not only violates these laws but may expose the owner to legal liability, particularly if the dog causes injury.
Certain municipalities within Pennsylvania may have additional leash requirements and restrictions, so it’s critical for dog owners to familiarize themselves with their local ordinances.
Pennsylvania's “Dangerous Dog” Law
Pennsylvania recognizes the “Dangerous Dog” statute, which applies to dogs that have previously exhibited aggressive behavior or attacked individuals. If a dog is determined to be dangerous, special precautions, such as muzzling, may be required when the dog is in public spaces.
An owner's failure to adhere to these laws can result in legal consequences, particularly if the dog injures someone.
Legal Liability for Dog Bites in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is a "strict liability" state regarding dog bites. This means that if a dog bites someone, its owner is completely liable for the victim's medical expenses, regardless of whether the owner knew or should have known about the dog's aggressive tendencies. However, victims can pursue additional compensation beyond medical expenses if it can be proven that the owner was negligent, or the dog had a history of aggressive behavior.
What to Do After a Dog Bite Incident
Dealing with the aftermath of a dog bite can be overwhelming but knowing what to do in the immediate moments following an attack can protect your health while building the foundation for any potential legal action.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Dog bites, even minor ones, can lead to severe infections such as tetanus or rabies if left untreated. Wash the wound thoroughly and consult a medical professional to evaluate your injury. Documenting your treatment is also essential for your legal claim.
Report the Incident
Contact your local animal control or police department to report the bite. An official report not only helps track the dog's vaccination records for diseases like rabies but also establishes a formal record of the incident, which is critical if you decide to pursue legal action.
Gather Information About the Dog and Its Owner
If possible, obtain the dog owner’s name, phone number, and address. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information as well. Photographs of your injuries, the location of the incident, and even the dog itself can serve as valuable evidence for your case.
Contact an Experienced Dog Bite Attorney
Navigating legal claims involving personal injury and dog bites can be complex. Hiring an experienced attorney ensures your legal rights are fully protected and helps you seek rightful compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and emotional trauma.
How the Law Offices of Lepley, Engelman, Yaw and Wilk Can Help
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, it’s important to have compassionate and knowledgeable legal support on your side. Our attorneys at Lepley, Engelman, Yaw and Wilk have decades of experience handling personal injury cases, including dog bite claims, and are ready to fight for the justice you deserve.
Our Commitment to Pennsylvania Residents
At Lepley Engelman Yaw and Wilk, we’re more than just legal advocates. We’re your neighbors. We’re deeply committed to the communities we serve, and we understand the immense physical, emotional, and financial toll of dog bite injuries on victims and their families. That’s why we approach every case with empathy and professionalism.
We provide personalized legal strategies tailored to your unique circumstances, expert negotiation to achieve fair settlements, and trial-ready advocacy to fight for you in court when necessary. Our goal is to help you pursue compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost income or earning potential, and emotional distress. With our dedicated approach, your rights are protected every step of the way.
Protect Your Future After a Dog Bite Injury
If you’ve been injured by a dog in Pennsylvania, don’t wait. Take the first step toward resolution and recovery by reaching out to the Law Offices of Lepley, Engelman, Yaw and Wilk. With offices conveniently located in Williamsport and Lewisburg, our attorneys will provide a free consultation to assess your case and guide you through the legal process. Call us today or visit www.LepleyLaw.com to schedule your consultation.