Allentown Dog Bite Lawyer

Skilled Attorney for Dog Bite Injury Claims in Allentown, PA

When a dog snaps at somebody else and ends up causing an injury, questions can arise about whether or not the owner is liable for damages. These cases require a close investigation into the events leading up to the bite, which is where an attorney can help. If you or somebody you care about has been injured by someone else's pet dog, reach out to an Allentown, PA dog bite attorney.

At Neuwirth Law Office, LLC, we have many years of experience in personal injury law, and we use that experience to provide clients with clear legal advice and careful guidance in various injury claims. When you work with our firm, we will provide you with one-on-one attention, pursuing a full remedy for your injuries.

Liability for Dog Bites in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania holds dog owners responsible for bite injuries through a combination of strict liability and negligence rules. Under the state's Dog Law, an owner whose dog bites someone is responsible for the victim's medical expenses, even if the dog never showed signs of aggression before the attack. Recovering other losses, such as lost wages and pain and suffering, generally requires proof that the owner acted carelessly.

An owner may be found negligent for failing to leash or confine a dog, ignoring local animal control rules, or keeping a dog he or she knew had a history of biting or threatening people. A dog that was previously declared dangerous can expose its owner to even greater responsibility. In some cases, liability can extend beyond the owner to a person caring for the dog at the time or a landlord who knew about a dangerous animal on the property.

The victim's own conduct can also come into play. If the owner argues that the injured person provoked the dog or was trespassing, the compensation available may be reduced or denied.

Is There a Deadline to File a Dog Bite Injury Claim?

Pennsylvania sets a two-year deadline to file a dog bite injury lawsuit, starting from the date of the attack. Missing this deadline usually means losing the right to seek compensation in court, no matter how serious the injuries are. Children are bitten by dogs more often than adults, and the deadline works differently for them. When the victim is a minor, the two-year period typically does not begin until he or she turns 18.

Waiting until the deadline approaches can also weaken a claim. Witnesses move away, wounds heal, and insurance companies may question why the injured person waited so long to act. Starting the process early gives you more time to gather proof and negotiate before any filing deadline becomes a concern.

What Evidence Should You Document in a Dog Attack Claim?

Documenting the details of a dog attack helps show what happened, who was responsible, and how badly you were hurt. Homeowners and renters insurance policies often cover dog bite claims, and insurers will look closely at every piece of proof you provide. Useful evidence after a dog bite in Allentown may include:

• Photos of your wounds taken right after the attack and throughout the healing process
• Medical records, including emergency room visits, stitches, rabies treatment, and follow-up care
• A copy of any report filed with local animal control or the Allentown Health Bureau
• Names and contact information for the dog owner and anyone who saw the attack
• Torn or bloodstained clothing from the day of the incident
• Records showing the dog's vaccination history or prior complaints about the animal

Keeping receipts, missed work records, and notes about your pain and recovery can also support your claim. Scarring and emotional trauma, such as a new fear of dogs, are real losses that deserve to be documented alongside your medical bills.

Meet With an Allentown, Pennsylvania Dog Bite Attorney

A dog attack can leave lasting scars, both physical and emotional. At Neuwirth Law Office, LLC, we help injured people hold careless dog owners responsible and pursue fair compensation for every part of their recovery. Call 215-259-3687 or contact our Allentown, PA dog bite lawyer to set up a free consultation.