As the weather improves in Luzerne County, more people are outside—walking, jogging, and spending time in parks and neighborhoods. Unfortunately, this also means a seasonal increase in dog bite incidents.

If you or a loved one has been bitten, understanding your rights under Pennsylvania law is critical.

Pennsylvania Dog Bite Law Explained

Pennsylvania does not follow a strict “one bite rule.” Instead, liability depends on:

• Whether the dog had a history of aggression
• Whether the owner failed to control the dog
• The severity of the injuries

Dog owners in Luzerne County are responsible for keeping their animals under control at all times.

What Should You Do Immediately After a Dog Bite?

Step-by-Step After an Attack

• Seek medical attention immediately
• Identify the dog and owner
• Take photos of injuries and the scene
• Get witness information
• Report the incident to local authorities

Prompt action not only protects your health but also strengthens your legal claim.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

Victims of dog bites in Luzerne County may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Emotional trauma

Serious injuries often lead to significantly higher claims.

FAQ: Dog Bite Cases in Luzerne County, PA

Who is liable for a dog bite in Pennsylvania?

In most cases, the dog owner is responsible, especially if they failed to properly control the animal or knew of prior aggressive behavior.

Does the dog have to have bitten someone before?

Not necessarily. While prior behavior matters, owners can still be liable if they were negligent in controlling the dog.

What if the dog bite happened on private property?

You may still have a claim. Liability depends on whether you were lawfully on the property and the circumstances of the attack.

Can I recover damages if I was partially at fault?

Yes. Pennsylvania follows comparative negligence, meaning your compensation may be reduced but not eliminated if you were partially responsible.

Are dog bites considered serious injuries under the law?

They can be. Severe bites involving scarring, nerve damage, or infection often qualify as serious injuries and increase the value of a claim.

What if the dog owner says the dog never acted aggressively before?

That does not automatically prevent recovery. The focus is often on whether the owner acted reasonably in controlling the dog.

How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Pennsylvania?

Generally, you have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury claim.

Should I speak with the dog owner's insurance company?

Not without legal guidance. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or use your statements against you.

Do most dog bite cases settle?

Yes. Many cases resolve through insurance settlements, but strong evidence is key to maximizing compensation.

Do I need a lawyer for a dog bite case in Luzerne County?

If your injuries are more than minor, absolutely. A lawyer can:

• Gather evidence
• Handle insurance companies
• Maximize your compensation

Why Dog Bite Cases Increase in Warmer Months

With more people outside:

• Dogs are exposed to more unfamiliar people and stimuli
• Children are more frequently interacting with pets
• Owners may be more relaxed about restraints

This combination leads to a spike in preventable attacks every spring and summer in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Injured by a Dog Bite in Luzerne County? Don't Wait to Protect Your Case

Dog bite claims can change quickly. Evidence disappears, witnesses become harder to reach, and insurance companies begin building their defense immediately.

The sooner you act, the stronger your case can be.  

If you were injured from a dog bite in Luzerne County or anywhere in Northeastern Pennsylvania, you may have the right to compensation—but acting quickly matters. Evidence can disappear, and deadlines apply. At Sklarosky Law, we offer free consultations and handle dog bite cases on a contingent fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

Call (570) 283-1200 or use our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.