Dog Bite Laws in Pennsylvania: Your Legal Rights After a Dog Bite in Luzerne County

A dog bite can leave you with painful injuries, emotional trauma, and unexpected medical bills. In Pennsylvania—and especially here in Luzerne County—dog bite victims have strong legal protections. Understanding these rights is the first step toward securing the compensation you need to recover.

At Sklarosky Law, we represent dog bite victims throughout Wilkes-Barre, Kingston, Pittston, Hazleton, Nanticoke, Mountain Top, and all of Northeastern Pennsylvania, fighting to ensure they receive the compensation they deserve.

Your Legal Rights After a Dog Bite in Luzerne County

Dog bite incidents in Pennsylvania are governed by a mix of strict liability and negligence laws. This combination gives victims multiple legal avenues to pursue compensation, depending on the circumstances of the attack.

Pennsylvania Dog Bite Laws: What You Need to Know

Strict Liability for Medical Expenses

Under Pennsylvania law, dog owners are strictly liable for paying a victim's medical expenses, even if the dog has no prior history of aggression.
In other words, you are entitled to have your medical bills covered regardless of whether the owner acted negligently.

Negligence Claims for Additional Damages

If you seek compensation beyond medical bills—such as pain and suffering, lost wages, or emotional distress—you must show that the dog owner was negligent.
Negligence may include:

• Failing to restrain the dog properly
• Allowing the dog to roam off-leash in public
• Ignoring signs of prior aggressive behavior

Common Defenses in Pennsylvania Dog Bite Cases

While Pennsylvania law favors victims, dog owners may still attempt to avoid liability using common defenses:

• Provocation Defense: Claiming that the victim provoked the dog by teasing, hitting, or frightening it.
• Trespassing Defense: Arguing that the victim was unlawfully on private property when the attack occurred.

Understanding these potential defenses allows your attorney to anticipate and counter them effectively.

What to Do If You've Been Bitten by a Dog in Luzerne County

Taking prompt action after a dog bite is critical to protect your health and strengthen your legal case.

Steps to Take Immediately

1. Seek Medical Attention
   Even minor bites can lead to infection or nerve damage. Always get medical care right away.

2. Report the Incident
   Notify local authorities or animal control to document the event and help prevent future attacks.

3. Gather Evidence

   • Take photos of your injuries and the location.

   • Get the dog owner's name and contact information.

   • Speak to witnesses and note what they observed.

4. Consult a Dog Bite Lawyer
   A Luzerne County dog bite attorney can evaluate your case, preserve evidence, and help you pursue compensation.

Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Claims in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, you have two (2) years from the date of the incident to file a dog bite lawsuit.
Failing to file within this time limit can result in losing your right to recover damages—so it's important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.

Damages Available After a Dog Bite

Depending on the nature of your injuries and their impact, you may be eligible for several types of compensation:

• Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, surgery, medications, and physical therapy.
• Pain and Suffering: Emotional trauma, anxiety, and reduced quality of life.
• Lost Wages: Income lost during recovery or reduced future earning capacity.

An experienced attorney will calculate both economic and non-economic damages to ensure you're fully compensated.

Why Hire a Luzerne County Dog Bite Lawyer

Dog bite claims can be legally complex, especially when dealing with insurance companies or disputed liability. A skilled attorney can:

• Evaluate your claim and identify all potential sources of recovery
• Negotiate with insurers to ensure fair compensation
• Represent you in court if the case goes to trial

At Sklarosky Law, we handle every aspect of your case—from initial claim to final settlement—so you can focus on healing.

Contact Sklarosky Law Today

If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog bite in Wilkes-Barre, Kingston, Pittston, Hazleton, Nanticoke, Mountain Top, and all of Northeastern Pennsylvania don't wait.

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

Our team will listen to your story, explain your legal options, and fight to secure the compensation you deserve.