Lancaster County Dog Bite Attorney for Child Injuries

Seeing your child suffer a dog bite in Lancaster County is a deeply distressing experience. The immediate concern is their physical and emotional well-being, often followed by worries about medical bills and their long-term recovery.

We understand the shock and fear that can come with such an incident, whether it happened in your neighborhood or at a local park like Long's Park.

Understanding Pennsylvania Dog Bite Law for Children

Pennsylvania law provides avenues for families to seek justice when a child is bitten by a dog. The specific rules depend on the severity of the injury and the dog's past behavior. For serious injuries, the law holds dog owners responsible.

A "severe injury" is defined in Pennsylvania law as any physical injury that results in broken bones or disfiguring lacerations, or requires cosmetic surgery or hospitalization. When a dog inflicts a severe injury, the owner can be held liable for all damages. This is established under 3 P.S. § 459-502-A of the Pennsylvania Dog Law.

Even if the injury is not classified as severe, owners are still responsible if their dog had a history of aggression or if they were negligent in controlling their animal. If the dog had a prior bite history or was known to be dangerous, the owner has a higher duty to protect others.

The Unique Challenges of Child Dog Bite Cases

Dog bites can be particularly devastating for children. Beyond the immediate physical trauma, children may experience lasting emotional distress, including fear of dogs, nightmares, and anxiety. Scars that might heal relatively well on an adult can impact a child's developing self-image for years. These long-term effects are a significant part of a child's personal injury claim.

Scarring and Disfigurement

For children, scars from a dog bite can be a permanent reminder of a traumatic event. Facial injuries are especially common in children due to their height. These types of injuries often require extensive medical treatment, including plastic surgery, both immediately and sometimes years later as the child grows. We work to ensure that the full extent of these damages, both physical and emotional, is considered.

Emotional and Psychological Impact

The emotional toll on a child cannot be overstated. A dog bite can lead to post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and a newfound fear of animals. These psychological impacts can interfere with a child's daily life, schooling, and social interactions. Expert testimony from child psychologists is often crucial to fully understand and present these effects in a claim.

Who Is Responsible for Your Child's Injuries?

Identifying the responsible party is a critical step. Usually, it is the dog owner. However, if the incident occurred on someone else's property, like a neighbor's yard or a relative's home, the property owner might also share some responsibility, especially if they knew about the dog's dangerous tendencies.

In Lancaster County, whether the incident happened in a bustling area near Park City Center or a quieter street in Lititz, the principles of owner responsibility remain the same.

The Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Claims Involving Minors

Most personal injury claims in Pennsylvania, including dog bites, have a two-year deadline to file a lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations, found in 42 Pa. C.S. § 5524. However, for minors, this deadline works differently. The two-year period does not typically begin until the child turns 18 years old. This means a claim for a child bitten at age 5 generally can be filed until their 20th birthday.

Despite this extended timeline, it is always best to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. Critical evidence can be lost over time, and a prompt investigation can strengthen a case. Waiting too long can make it harder to gather witness statements, photographs, and other crucial details.

What to Do After a Child's Dog Bite in Lancaster County

The moments following a dog bite are crucial for your child's health and any future legal claim. Here are the steps we recommend:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Your child's health is the top priority. Dog bites carry a risk of infection and can cause deep tissue damage. Take your child to a hospital like Lancaster General Hospital or an urgent care center right away. Ensure all injuries are documented by medical professionals.
2. Identify the Dog and Owner: If possible, safely gather information about the dog and its owner. This includes the owner's name, address, and phone number.
3. Report the Bite: Report the dog bite to the local animal control or police department. In Lancaster County, this often involves contacting the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture's Dog Law Enforcement Office. An official report creates a record of the incident.
4. Document Everything: Take clear photographs of your child's injuries, the location of the incident, and any damaged clothing. Keep a detailed journal of your child's physical and emotional recovery, including doctor visits, treatments, and how the injury affects their daily life.
5. Avoid Speaking with Insurance Companies: The dog owner's insurance company may contact you. It is best not to give recorded statements or sign any documents without first speaking to an attorney. Their goal is often to minimize payouts.
6. Contact a Lancaster County Dog Bite Attorney: An experienced attorney can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you understand the potential value of your claim.

How We Can Help Your Family

Navigating a dog bite claim for your child can be complex and emotionally draining. We are here to handle the legal burden so you can focus on your child's recovery. Our firm has experience with Pennsylvania dog bite cases and understands the local landscape, from the Lancaster County Court of Common Pleas to the specific rules about animal control in our communities.

We will:

• Conduct a thorough investigation of the incident.
• Gather all necessary evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and expert opinions.
• Handle all communications with insurance companies and other parties.
• Calculate the full extent of damages, including medical expenses, future medical needs, pain and suffering, and the emotional impact on your child.
• Aggressively negotiate for a fair resolution.
• If necessary, represent your family in court.

We cannot promise a specific outcome, but we are committed to fighting for the best possible result for your child.

What to Do Next

If your child has been bitten by a dog in Lancaster County, contact us for a confidential consultation. We can discuss the specifics of your situation and explain how Pennsylvania law applies to your child's claim.

Serving injured Pennsylvanians in: Philadelphia.

Hurt in Pennsylvania? Request a free case review — no fee unless we win.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after my child is bitten by a dog?

First, seek immediate medical attention for your child, even for seemingly minor injuries. Then, if safe to do so, identify the dog and its owner. Report the bite to animal control and document everything with photos and notes.

Can I still file a claim if my child was bitten years ago?

For minors, the two-year statute of limitations typically does not begin until they turn 18 years old. This means a claim can often be filed until their 20th birthday, but it is always best to consult an attorney quickly to preserve evidence.

What kind of damages can be recovered in a child dog bite case?

Damages can include current and future medical expenses, plastic surgery costs, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and psychological counseling. The long-term impact of scarring on a child is also a significant factor.

What if the dog bite occurred on private property, like a friend's house?

The dog owner is usually responsible. However, depending on the circumstances, the property owner might also share some liability, especially if they knew about the dog's aggressive tendencies. Every case depends on its specific facts.

Will my child have to go to court?

Many dog bite cases are resolved through negotiations with insurance companies without going to trial. If a lawsuit is filed, your child may not need to testify directly. We will guide you through every step and protect your child from further distress.

How does Pennsylvania define a 'severe injury' from a dog bite?

Under 3 P.S. § 459-502-A, a severe injury is any physical injury that results in broken bones, disfiguring lacerations, or requires cosmetic surgery or hospitalization. This distinction impacts the extent of the owner's liability.

Serving injured Pennsylvanians in: Philadelphia.