Cumberland County PA Dog Bite Lawyer: What to Do After an Attack

A dog attack can leave you with serious physical injuries, emotional trauma, and many unanswered questions. As medical bills begin to pile up, you might also be dealing with the shock of what happened.

We understand the stress and confusion that follow a dog bite. Our firm helps people in Cumberland County navigate the legal process to seek the recovery they need.

Understanding Pennsylvania Dog Bite Laws

In Pennsylvania, dog owners are responsible for their animals. The law protects victims who are bitten by dogs, especially when the injuries are severe. This area of law can be complex, and it is important to know your rights.

Strict Liability for Severe Injuries

Pennsylvania law holds dog owners strictly liable for damages if their dog causes a "severe injury." A severe injury means any physical harm that results in broken bones or disfiguring lacerations requiring sutures or cosmetic surgery, or any injury requiring hospitalization. This is covered under 3 P.S. § 459-502-A of the Pennsylvania Dog Law.

If your injury meets this definition, the dog owner may be responsible for all medical bills and other related costs, even if the dog had never shown aggression before.

Other Injuries and "One Bite" Rule

For injuries that are not considered "severe" under the law, or if the dog has a history of aggression, the rules can be different. If the dog had a known history of aggression, the owner may still be liable. This is sometimes called the "one bite rule," but it's more nuanced. If an owner knew or should have known their dog was dangerous, they have a duty to prevent attacks.

What to Do Immediately After a Dog Bite in Cumberland County

The moments following a dog attack can be chaotic. Taking the right steps can protect your health and your potential legal claim.

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the first priority. Dog bites can cause deep wounds, infections, and even rabies. Go to an urgent care center or the emergency room at places like UPMC Carlisle or Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center right away. Follow all medical advice. Keep records of all your doctor visits and treatments.
2. Identify the Dog and Owner: If possible and safe, get the dog owner's name, address, and phone number. Ask for their homeowner's or renter's insurance information, as this often covers dog bite claims.
3. Gather Witness Information: If anyone saw the attack, get their contact details. Witness statements can be very helpful.
4. Take Photos: Take clear photos of your injuries, the dog (if safe), the location of the attack, and any damaged clothing. Continue to take photos of your injuries as they heal.
5. Report the Bite: Report the dog bite to the Cumberland County Animal Control. This creates an official record of the incident. It also helps protect others from the same dog. You can typically find their contact information through the county government website.
6. Do Not Give Recorded Statements: An insurance company may contact you. Do not give any recorded statements or sign anything without speaking to a lawyer. They represent the dog owner's interests, not yours.

Common Injuries from Dog Attacks

Dog bites can lead to a wide range of injuries, some of which may have long-lasting effects. These can include:

• Puncture wounds and lacerations
• Deep tissue damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments
• Fractured or broken bones
• Nerve damage
• Infections, such as cellulitis or rabies
• Scarring and disfigurement, especially on the face or hands
• Emotional trauma, including anxiety, PTSD, and fear of dogs

The emotional impact of a dog attack is often overlooked but can be just as debilitating as physical injuries. Many victims, especially children, struggle with fear and anxiety for years after an incident.

The Role of a Cumberland County Dog Bite Lawyer

After a dog bite, you might feel overwhelmed by medical appointments, insurance calls, and the lingering pain. This is where an experienced personal injury lawyer can help. We work on your behalf so you can focus on healing.

Investigating Your Claim

We will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your dog attack. This includes gathering evidence, speaking with witnesses, reviewing animal control records, and obtaining medical documents. We may also check if the dog has a history of aggression or if its owner has violated local leash laws, such as those that might apply in a public park like Colonel Denning State Park or along the Cumberland Valley Rail Trail.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies are not on your side. Their goal is to pay out as little as possible. We handle all communications with the insurance adjusters. We protect your rights and ensure you do not inadvertently harm your claim. We will present your case clearly and professionally, aiming for a fair outcome.

Understanding the Statute of Limitations

It is important to act quickly. In Pennsylvania, there is a time limit for filing a personal injury lawsuit, known as the statute of limitations. For most dog bite claims, you have two years from the date of the injury to file your lawsuit. This is set forth in 42 Pa. C.S. § 5524. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to pursue your claim, no matter how strong your case.

What to Expect from the Legal Process

The legal process for a dog bite claim typically involves several steps:

1. Initial Consultation: We discuss your case, review the facts, and explain your options.
2. Investigation and Evidence Gathering: We collect all necessary information, including medical records, witness statements, and animal control reports from Cumberland County authorities.
3. Negotiation with Insurance Companies: We attempt to reach a fair outcome through negotiations.
4. Filing a Lawsuit: If negotiations are unsuccessful, we may file a lawsuit in the Cumberland County Court of Common Pleas.
5. Discovery: Both sides exchange information and evidence.
6. Mediation or Arbitration: Efforts to resolve the case outside of a trial may continue.
7. Trial: If no agreement is reached, the case may proceed to trial.

Our goal is to guide you through each step, making sure you understand what is happening and what to expect. We are here to fight for your rights.

What to do next

If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Cumberland County, contact our firm for a consultation. We can review your case and help you understand your legal options.

Serving injured Pennsylvanians in: Philadelphia.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after a dog bite in Cumberland County?

First, seek medical attention for your injuries right away. Then, if possible and safe, identify the dog owner and gather their contact information. Report the incident to Cumberland County Animal Control to create an official record.

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

In Pennsylvania, dog owners are strictly liable for damages if their dog inflicts a "severe injury." For less severe injuries, responsibility may depend on whether the owner knew or should have known their dog had aggressive tendencies. Your lawyer can explain how the law applies to your specific situation.

What is the deadline for filing a dog bite claim in Pennsylvania?

Generally, you have two years from the date of the dog bite incident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Pennsylvania. This is known as the statute of limitations, and it is crucial to act before this deadline passes to protect your legal rights.

What kind of injuries can I recover for after a dog bite?

You may be able to seek recovery for medical expenses, lost wages if you could not work, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. The specific types of recovery depend on the severity of your injuries and the details of your case.

Should I talk to the dog owner's insurance company?

It is generally not advisable to give a recorded statement or sign any documents from an insurance company without first consulting with a lawyer. Insurance companies represent their policyholder's interests, and you could unknowingly harm your claim.

How can a Cumberland County dog bite lawyer help me?

A lawyer can investigate your case, gather evidence, handle all communications with insurance companies, and represent you in negotiations or court. Our goal is to protect your rights and help you seek fair recovery for your injuries.

Serving injured Pennsylvanians in: Philadelphia · Pittsburgh.