Pennsylvania Dog Bite Attorneys
Have You Been the Victim of a Dog Attack in Pennsylvania?
Dog bites happen more often than many people realize. Even dogs with no prior history of aggression can suddenly attack and cause serious harm. Because dogs are strong animals, these attacks can lead to devastating, life-altering injuries.
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, Pennsylvania law protects you by holding negligent dog owners accountable. At Sklarosky Law, we fight to make sure victims of dog attacks receive the compensation they deserve.
How Long Do You Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for filing a dog bite lawsuit is two years from the date of the attack if you are an adult.
If the victim is a minor, the two-year deadline does not begin until their 18th birthday—giving them until their 20th birthday to file a lawsuit.
Because evidence can disappear quickly, it's critical to contact an attorney as soon as possible after a dog bite injury.
What Damages Can You Recover in a Dog Bite Lawsuit?
Victims of dog attacks in Pennsylvania may be entitled to both economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages may include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Out-of-pocket costs (co-pays, prescriptions, medical supplies, etc.)
Non-Economic Damages may include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
For additional information see our blog post titled How Much is a Dog Bite Case Worth in Pennsylvania?
Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Dog Bite?
In most cases, the dog owner is responsible for injuries caused by their pet. However, depending on the circumstances, others may share liability, such as:
- A landlord who allowed a dangerous dog on the property
- A keeper of the dog (someone caring for the dog at the time of the attack)
- A property owner where the attack occurred
It's also possible that the victim may be found partially at fault if they provoked the dog.
What Should You Do After a Dog Bite?
Taking the right steps after a dog attack can protect your health and strengthen your legal claim:
- Gather information – Get the dog owner's name, address, and dog license details. Collect contact information for any witnesses.
- Seek medical treatment – Even minor bites can lead to infection or nerve damage. Always get checked by a medical professional.
- Document your injuries – Take photos of wounds, bruises, and damaged clothing.
- File a report – Notify your local police department and Animal Control.
- Contact an attorney – A skilled lawyer can protect your rights and begin gathering critical evidence immediately.
Pennsylvania Dog Bite Laws You Should Know
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Leash Laws – Dog owners must keep their pets under control at all times. If a leash law violation leads to an attack, the owner may be liable.
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Dangerous Dog Statute – A dog may be classified as “dangerous” if it has caused serious injury to a person or animal without provocation. Owners of dangerous dogs face strict registration requirements and penalties if they fail to comply.
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Common Law Liability – Pennsylvania courts have made it clear that dog owners cannot rely on the so-called “one free bite rule.” An owner may be held liable for a dog bite even if it was the first time their dog attacked someone.
Defenses to Dog Bite Claims
Dog owners and insurers often try to avoid liability by arguing:
- The victim was trespassing on private property
- The victim was teasing or provoking the dog.
Having an experienced attorney on your side ensures these defenses are challenged effectively.
Contact Sklarosky Law Today
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog bite in Pennsylvania, don't wait. These cases can be complex, and proving liability requires quick action and strong evidence.
Call Sklarosky Law today at (570) 283-1200 or use our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.
We are committed to helping you recover the compensation you need for medical care, lost wages, and the pain and suffering caused by a dog attack.