Bethlehem, PA Dog Bite Lawyer: What to Do After an Attack

A dog bite can leave you with serious physical and emotional injuries. You might be facing unexpected medical bills and an uncertain recovery.

When a dog attacks, it is a frightening and traumatic event. The physical wounds can be severe, requiring immediate medical attention at places like Lehigh Valley Hospital–Muhlenberg or St. Luke's University Hospital – Bethlehem Campus. Beyond the physical pain, you might also be dealing with emotional distress and the worry of lost wages.

Understanding Pennsylvania Dog Bite Law

In Pennsylvania, the law holds dog owners responsible when their animal causes harm. The specific details of your claim will depend on the severity of your injuries and the dog's history.

Pennsylvania's Dog Law, specifically 3 P.S. § 459-502-A, addresses dog bites. This section states that if a dog inflicts a severe injury, the owner can be held strictly liable for medical expenses. A "severe injury" is defined as any physical injury that results in broken bones or disfiguring lacerations requiring multiple sutures or cosmetic surgery, or any injury causing death. This means if you suffer such an injury, the owner is responsible for your medical bills, regardless of whether they knew their dog was dangerous.

For less severe injuries, you typically need to show that the dog had a history of aggression or that the owner was negligent in controlling their dog. For instance, if a dog known to be aggressive got loose in a neighborhood like West Bethlehem and bit someone, the owner could be held responsible due to their failure to contain the animal.

It is important to understand that Pennsylvania law also includes provisions for the humane confinement of dogs, found in 3 P.S. § 459-305. Owners must keep their dogs properly confined or under reasonable control at all times.

The Immediate Steps After a Dog Bite

What you do right after a dog bite is crucial for your health and for any future legal action. We understand this is a stressful time, but taking these steps can protect you.

1. Seek Medical Attention

Your health is the top priority. Dog bites can lead to serious infections, nerve damage, or other complications. Even if the wound seems minor, have a doctor check it. Go to an urgent care center or an emergency room in Bethlehem. Keep all records of your treatment, including hospital visits, medications, and therapy.

2. Identify the Dog and Owner

If possible and safe to do so, try to identify the dog and its owner. Get their name, address, and contact information. Ask if the dog is vaccinated against rabies. If the owner is uncooperative or unknown, try to get a description of the dog and where the incident occurred, such as near the Sand Island Park area or on a specific street.

3. Report the Bite

Report the dog bite to Bethlehem Animal Control or the local police. An official report creates a record of the incident, which can be very important for your claim. They can also investigate the dog's history and ensure public safety.

4. Preserve Evidence

Take photographs of your injuries immediately after the bite and as they heal. Photograph the location where the bite occurred. Keep the clothing you were wearing, especially if it was torn or damaged. Write down everything you remember about the attack, including the date, time, and any witnesses present.

The Role of a Bethlehem, PA Dog Bite Lawyer

After a dog attack, you might feel overwhelmed by medical bills, lost wages, and the emotional toll. We can help you navigate this complex situation.

Investigating Your Claim

Our firm will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your dog bite. This includes gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and obtaining animal control records. We will work to establish the dog owner's responsibility under Pennsylvania law.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Dog bite claims often involve the dog owner's homeowner's insurance policy. Insurance companies aim to pay as little as possible. We handle all communications with them, protecting you from tactics that could harm your claim. We know how to present your case effectively to pursue the full compensation you deserve.

Understanding Your Rights and Deadlines

There are strict deadlines for filing a personal injury lawsuit in Pennsylvania, known as the statute of limitations. For most personal injury cases, including dog bites, you generally have two years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit. This deadline is set by 42 Pa. C.S. § 5524. Missing this deadline can mean you lose your right to pursue compensation entirely. We make sure all deadlines are met.

Common Questions About Dog Bite Claims

You probably have many questions about what comes next. Here are some answers to common concerns.

What if the Dog Owner is a Friend or Family Member?

It is common for dog bites to involve people you know. Many people are hesitant to pursue a claim against a friend or family member. However, these claims are usually paid by the owner's homeowner's insurance, not directly out of their pocket. Our firm can help you handle this delicate situation with sensitivity while protecting your legal rights.

What Kind of Damages Can I Pursue?

When you are bitten by a dog, you may be able to pursue various types of compensation. This can include your medical expenses, such as emergency room visits, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation costs. It can also cover lost wages if your injuries prevented you from working. Additionally, you may pursue compensation for your pain and suffering, as well as emotional distress caused by the attack.

What if the Dog has Never Bitten Anyone Before?

Even if a dog has no prior bite history, its owner can still be held responsible. If your injuries are severe as defined by 3 P.S. § 459-502-A (broken bones or disfiguring lacerations), the owner is strictly liable for your medical bills. For less severe injuries, we may need to show the owner was negligent in controlling the dog, even if it was a "first-time" bite.

Will My Case Go to Court?

Most personal injury cases, including dog bites, are resolved through settlements outside of court. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial. Our goal is always to achieve the best possible outcome for you, whether through negotiation or litigation.

How Long Does a Dog Bite Claim Take?

The timeline for a dog bite claim can vary greatly. It depends on factors like the severity of your injuries, the recovery period, and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate. Some cases resolve in a few months, while others can take longer. We work diligently to move your case forward efficiently while ensuring all your damages are fully accounted for.

Can I File a Claim if I Was Trespassing?

Generally, if you were unlawfully on someone's property when a dog bite occurred, your ability to file a claim may be limited. Property owners owe different duties to trespassers compared to invited guests. However, there can be exceptions depending on the specific facts. It is important to discuss your situation with an attorney.

What to Do Next

If you have been bitten by a dog in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, you need clear guidance and strong legal representation. Do not try to navigate this complex process alone while also recovering from your injuries. Contact our firm today for a free consultation. We are here to listen to your story and explain your options without obligation.

Serving injured Pennsylvanians in: Philadelphia · Pittsburgh.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after a dog bite in Bethlehem?

First, seek medical attention at a facility like Lehigh Valley Hospital. Then, identify the dog and owner if possible, report the bite to Bethlehem Animal Control, and gather evidence like photos of your injuries and the incident location.

Is the dog owner always responsible for a dog bite in Pennsylvania?

Under Pennsylvania law, dog owners are often held responsible. If your injuries are severe (like broken bones or disfiguring lacerations), the owner is strictly liable for medical expenses. For less severe injuries, we generally need to show the owner was negligent or knew the dog had a history of aggression.

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

In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases, including dog bites, is two years from the date of the incident. It is crucial to act quickly to avoid losing your right to pursue compensation.

What kind of compensation can I get for a dog bite?

You may be able to pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages if you could not work, and pain and suffering. The specific types and amounts depend on the details of your injuries and the impact on your life.

What if I know the dog owner who bit me?

Many dog bite cases involve people you know. These claims are typically handled through the dog owner's homeowner's insurance policy, not directly by them. We can help manage these situations sensitively while protecting your legal rights.

What if the dog had never bitten anyone before?

Even if there's no prior bite history, the owner can still be held responsible. For severe injuries, strict liability applies to medical expenses. For other injuries, we would assess if the owner was negligent in their control of the dog.

Serving injured Pennsylvanians in: Philadelphia · Pittsburgh.