Dog bites can cause severe physical and emotional damage to the victims. In Pennsylvania, dog bites are governed by specific laws, and it is essential to understand them fully. If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog, you need to know your legal options. This article will provide an overview of Pennsylvania dog bite lawsuits and what you need to know to protect yourself.
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Pennsylvania Dog Bite Laws
The Pennsylvania dog bite law is based on the “strict liability” principle. This means that the dog owner is liable for the damages caused by their dog regardless of whether the dog had any previous history of aggression or not. The law is applicable if the dog bites a person or injures them by jumping or otherwise aggressively attacking them.
What To Do After A Dog Bite
If you are bitten by a dog, the first thing you need to do is to seek medical attention. Even if the wound looks minor, it is essential to get it checked out by a doctor to prevent any infections. Once your condition is stable, you should report the incident to the local authorities. If the dog owner is present, ask for their contact information and the dog’s vaccination records.
It is also recommended to gather witness statements and take photographs of the injury and the location of the incident. This evidence will help support your case if you decide to pursue legal action.
Filing A Dog Bite Lawsuit
To file a dog bite lawsuit in Pennsylvania, you need to show that the dog caused the injury, and the victim was not trespassing or provoking the dog in any way. Pennsylvania law allows victims of dog bites to sue for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
Statute Of Limitations
If you want to file a dog bite lawsuit in Pennsylvania, it is essential to know that you have a limited time to do so. The Pennsylvania statute of limitations is two years from the date of the incident. This means that you have two years from the date of the dog bite to file a lawsuit, or else you may lose your rights to seek compensation.
Defenses to Pennsylvania Dog Bite Lawsuits
Pennsylvania law provides some defenses for dog owners to avoid liability for dog bites. For instance, if the injured person was a trespasser or provoked the dog intentionally, the dog owner may not be held liable. However, the “provocation” defense has a high standard, and the person provoking the dog must have done something that immediately triggered the attack.
Negligence-Based Claims
Pennsylvania law also allows victims of dog bites to file negligence-based claims against dog owners. Negligence-based claims apply when the owner knew, or should have known, that the dog had previously behaved aggressively or had bitten someone in the past but did not take any reasonable steps to prevent a future incident.
Conclusion
Dog bites can be a traumatic experience, causing physical and emotional damage that can last a lifetime. Pennsylvania’s dog bite laws are designed to protect victims and hold negligent dog owners accountable. If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog, it is essential to know your legal options. Seek medical treatment, gather evidence, and speak to an experienced attorney to help you navigate the legal process. By doing so, you can seek the justice and compensation that you deserve.