King of Prussia, Pennsylvania Dog Bite Injury Attorney

Detail-Oriented Dog Bite Injury Lawyer Based in King of Prussia, PA

It can be difficult to predict the behavior of a dog, even when the owner insists that the dog is "friendly." Sometimes, a pet may snap without provocation, leading to serious injuries. If you were injured by somebody else's dog, get in touch with a King of Prussia, PA dog bite injury attorney who can help you seek payment for your damages.

At Neuwirth Law Office, LLC, we are ready to investigate your claim and pursue compensation after a dog bite or attack. Backed by over 20 years of trial experience, Attorney Andrew Neuwirth is ready to fight for your rights in court when necessary.

How Does Pennsylvania Handle Liability for Dog Bites and Attacks?

Pennsylvania does not follow a strict one-bite rule, meaning a dog owner can be held responsible even if the animal has never bitten or attacked anyone before. Under state law, an owner may be liable for your medical costs simply because they own the dog, regardless of whether they knew it was dangerous or had ever shown signs of aggression.

If the owner knew or should have known the dog had aggressive tendencies, or if the owner violated a leash law or containment requirement, you may be able to pursue a broader claim covering the full extent of your damages, including pain and suffering.

Liability can also extend beyond the individual owner in certain situations. A landlord who knew about a dangerous dog on the property and failed to take reasonable action, or a dog sitter or walker who allowed the animal to escape or roam unsupervised, may share responsibility for an attack. Determining exactly which legal theory applies to your specific case often depends on the specific facts surrounding the incident, the dog's history, and what the responsible party knew beforehand.

What Injuries Can You Be Paid for in a Dog Bite Injury Claim?

Dog bites can cause a range of physical and emotional injuries, and your claim can generally include compensation for different categories, including:

• Medical treatment: Emergency care, stitches, wound cleaning, antibiotics, and any follow-up treatment needed for infection or other complications
• Scarring and disfigurement: Compensation for permanent scarring, especially in cases involving the face, hands, or other visible areas of the body
• Reconstructive surgery: Costs associated with surgery needed to repair damaged tissue, nerves, or skin
• Lost income: Wages lost while recovering from your injuries and attending related medical appointments
• Emotional distress: Compensation for psychological effects such as anxiety, fear of dogs, or lasting trauma following the attack

The compensation available depends on whether or not you can prove the owner acted negligently. Payment for pain and suffering and other damages may be available if your injuries are considered "severe," meaning that the attack caused broken bones, disfigurement, or required sutures or cosmetic surgery.

Steps in Filing a Dog Bite Injury Claim

Dog bites carry a real risk of infection and other complications that are not always visible at first, which makes seeking prompt medical care important. Report the attack to animal control or local police, since an official report can help document the incident and the dog's history. Try to get the owner's name, address, and contact information, along with details about whether the dog has current rabies vaccinations.

Take photographs of your injuries as they heal over time, along with any torn clothing or property damage from the attack. Gather witness information if anyone saw what happened, and avoid giving a detailed statement to the owner's insurance company before speaking with a lawyer.

Contact a King of Prussia Dog Bite Lawyer Today

A dog attack can leave you with painful injuries, lasting scars, and unexpected medical bills. At Neuwirth Law Office, LLC, we can work to hold the owner accountable for the full extent of your losses. Call 215-259-3687 or contact our King of Prussia, PA dog bite injury attorney to set up a free consultation.