Being bitten or injured by someone else’s dog is a frightening event that often leaves the victim with severe injuries. Fortunately, the State of Pennsylvania has rules and regulations regarding attacks caused by dogs. The dog’s owner may be held liable for any damages or injuries.
If you or a loved one were injured by another’s pet, you may have costs and expenses resulting from your accident. A Lehigh County dog bite lawyer could help you seek compensation for your damages. Speak to a skilled personal injury attorney to learn about Pennsylvania’s dog laws and whether they apply to your situation.
The Statute of Limitations in Lehigh County
In Pennsylvania, there is a statute of limitations or deadline to file a personal injury claim. Injured claimants have two years from the date of the accident to file their claim, according to Pennsylvania Constitutional Statutes § 5524. However, with cases involving minor children, the two-year deadline does not begin to run until the minor child reaches 18 years of age.
Liability in Dog Bite Matters
A pet owner can be held liable for damages caused by their dog. Under 3 Pa.C.S. §459-102, this liability can extend to dog keepers and landlords with dogs on their property. Taking steps toward preventing dog bites & dog attacks, such as proper training and supervision, is essential for minimizing risks and avoiding legal consequences.
Dangerous Dog
If a person is injured by a dangerous dog, the pet’s owner may be liable, and the victim may be able to recover damages. A dangerous dog, according to 3 Pa.C.S. § 459-502A, is a dog that has:
- Inflicted severe injury to a human being without provocation on public or private property
- Been used in the commission of a crime
- A history of attacking without provocation or a propensity to attack without provocation
A seasoned dog bite attorney in Lehigh County could investigate the situation to see whether a dangerous dog caused the bite or injury. They could also determine whether a pet’s owner violated any of Pennsylvania’s dog laws. For example, an owner of a dangerous dog pursuant to Pa. Stat. § 459-504-A must keep their pet in a proper enclosure. If the dog is outside of the enclosure, it must have a muzzle and be restrained by a substantial chain or leash and under physical restraint of a responsible person.
Recovering Damages for an Animal Attack
An injured party may be eligible to recover compensation for a wide range of damages, such as economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages can include lost wages and medical bills. Non-economic damages can include pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life.
Schedule a Consultation With a Lehigh County Dog Bite Attorney
An animal or dog attack could have severe physical, emotional, and financial consequences. The costs of an animal bite could be devastating to a family. Fortunately, with the help of a seasoned lawyer, you may be eligible to recover compensation for damages.
An experienced Lehigh County dog bite lawyer could calculate your losses and help you seek compensation from the responsible party. Call today to learn about what may be possible in your case.