(235+)Get compensated for a dog bite. Talk to a Philadelphia dog bite lawyer at Gibbons & Crichton, Personal Injury and Accident Lawyers.
We have a track record of helping victims get compensated. We treat you differently. To us, you are not just a case number. Your case is important, and we take the responsibility seriously.
For your consultation and to start your case today, contact us. Call 215-274-0173 or message us now.
Dog Bite Lawyers Serving Philadelphia and the Surrounding Areas
Our injury lawyers represent people throughout the greater Philadelphia area. See how we can help you in:
- Bucks County
- Chester County
- Delaware County
- Montgomery County
- Philadelphia County
and nearby locations. Our experienced team has a track record of success.
We specialize in helping victims and families. We’re taking new cases, and we can start today. Talk to a Philadelphia dog bite lawyer now.
Why Do Dogs Bite?
Even with no history of aggression, all dogs are capable of biting. Dogs bite for many reasons, including:
- Fearing that someone is in their personal space
- Being scared or startled, especially when waking up or surprised
- Guarding or protecting something or someone that is important to them
- Being overwhelmed by a situation, frustration
- Feeling sick or in pain
- Playing, not realizing that they are being hurtful
- Difficulty socializing and interacting with others
Despite prevention efforts and precautions, dog bites may occur for a variety of reasons. Laws protect victims and their right to compensation.
Who May Be Liable for a Dog Bite?
Parties who may be liable for a dog bite include:
- The owner, the person with the most direct responsibility for the dog
- A landlord who knows of the dog’s presence and could remove the dog or retake control of the property
- Sitter, keeper, or walker with temporary control of the dog
The question for determining liability for a dog bite is who had care and control of the dog at the time the bite occurred. Multiple parties may have legal fault and the obligation to pay compensation.
Dog bites and insurance claims
Often, claims are settled through home or business insurance policies. Once liability is established, it’s important to look for insurance policies that may apply.
Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bite injuries may be mild, moderate, or severe. Even a bite that seems insignificant can produce serious injury. Common injuries include:
- Broken bones
- Nerve damage
- Scars and disfigurement
- Pain
- Damage to eyesight
- Skin punctures
- Secondary problems like infection, tetanus, or rabies
- Tissue damage
The severity of a dog bite may play a role in the compensation the victim receives. Understanding dog laws is important to determining your compensation. Pennsylvania dog bite law defines a severe injury as broken bones or disfiguring lacerations that require multiple sutures or cosmetic surgery.
Fighting dogs, dogfighting attacks, and animal abuse
Animal abuse is sadly common. Even though it’s illegal, people train dogs to fight. These dogs are forced to participate. They become aggressive and frightened. In addition to dogfighting, abuse is also poor treatment like starvation, being chained up, being left in the elements, and improper veterinary care. These dogs often fight as a survival instinct. If you have been hurt by a dog that has been treated inhumanely, see how we can help you receive justice.
We Represent Children and Adults in Dog Bite Cases
Our Philadelphia dog bite lawyers represent both children and adult victims. A significant number of dog bite victims are children. Whether you are an adult victim or a child, injuries can be significant. Our lawyers will work to thoroughly understand your situation and advocate for you. We provide legal representation for adults and children with compassion.
Compensation for Dog Bite Victims
If you are a dog bite victim, you may receive compensation. Pennsylvania law makes it possible for victims to claim a monetary payment from the owner or the person in control of the dog. Depending on the circumstances, compensation may cover medical bills or a range of damages, including economic losses and pain and suffering.
As your lawyers, we know how to fight for the compensation you deserve. Some of the ways we assist you are:
- Documenting your injuries with medical evaluation and care
- Proving the legal standard for compensation, including the severity of the injury
- Identifying the appropriate dollar amount to claim in compensation
- Determining who is legally liable and what insurance policies apply
- Pursuing compensation through legal steps, including filing a formal claim
- Giving legal advice and guidance throughout the case
- Answering questions and communicating with you, explaining what you need to know
We are full-service representatives. Our team thoroughly understands the laws and procedures that apply, and we will work on your behalf throughout your case.
Dog Bite Lawyer FAQs
What kind of lawyer handles dog bite cases?
A dog bite lawyer is a type of personal injury lawyer. They represent their client in a claim for compensation following a dog bite.
Do I have a case for dog bite compensation?
If you’re bitten by a dog that you do not own, you may have a claim. Usually, you can claim medical bills, and if injuries are severe, all economic and non-economic losses. However, there are some defenses that may apply, like provocation and trespassing.
Is there a time limit to filing a dog bite claim in Pennsylvania?
There is a two-year time limit for filing a dog bite claim in Pennsylvania. 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 5524 creates a statute of limitations of two years in injury cases, including dog bites. The statute of limitations means that the case must be started before the two-year deadline.
How do I hire a dog bite lawyer?
To hire our dog bite lawyers, contact us for a consultation. We can talk about your situation and how our lawyers can help. We will answer all your questions about our representation. If you decide to hire us, we can start today.
Consultations Available – Talk to a Philadelphia Dog Bite Lawyer
At Gibbons & Crichton, Personal Injury and Accident Lawyers, we want you to be compensated fairly for your dog bite. Through the years, we’ve helped thousands of people just like you. We take a comprehensive approach, looking at your situation now and in the future.
Consultations are available. Talk to a Philadelphia dog bite lawyer and start the path towards compensation. Call 215-274-0173 or message us now.
