Leeson & Leeson would be my first stop for whatever legal issue I was encountering. Highly recommended.
Allentown Dog Bite Lawyer
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Dog Bite Attorney in Allentown
A dog attack can leave lasting scars, both visible and unseen. Parents in Allentown sometimes deal with the shock of a child suffering injuries from a neighbor’s dog. Adults may also find themselves in the hospital after what started as a simple walk in Trexler Park or along Hamilton Street. When the harm results from another person’s negligence, the law provides a path to seek accountability. An Allentown dog bite lawyer at Leeson & Leeson can help you understand your legal options and pursue financial recovery for the harm caused.
Leeson & Leeson has supported injured residents of Pennsylvania for decades. The firm understands how medical bills, missed work, and long recovery periods affect individuals and families. If you or your child has been harmed by a dog attack in Allentown, you can reach out today for a free consultation to discuss your rights and options.
Real People, Real Results:
Client Testimonials
Highly recommended.
Abbe F.
He is the best attorney I [have] ever known.
Mr. Joseph was very knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with. Answered all my questions and was easy to contact and replied to all my questions in timely competent manner. Also his staff is very nice and polite. I would highly recommend Leeson & Leeson law office for any further needs . He is the best attorney I ever know.
Sunny Q.
...he is a good person as well as a good attorney.
“Most thought my case was too small to bother with but Attorney Leeson offered to help me because he is a good person as well as a good attorney… He kept me informed throughout the process and walked me through issues that were confusing… I’m very grateful that he agreed to help me and you can feel confident choosing him.”
Laura Accetta, PA
Theodore Roosevelt once said "speak softly but carry a big stick." The Leeson lawyers embody this principle to perfection.
“The Leeson & Leeson firm has a long-storied history of intelligent and sophisticated lawyers and aggressive and tough litigators. Theodore Roosevelt once said “speak softly but carry a big stick.” The Leeson lawyers embody this principle to perfection… I highly recommend Leeson & Leeson for anyone who wants an attorney who is of a high order of integrity and legal intelligence.”
Francis Macri, PA
Key Takeaways About Dog Bite Claims
- Pennsylvania follows strict liability laws for dog bites, meaning owners are typically responsible regardless of the dog’s prior behavior
- Victims have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury claim under Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations
- Medical documentation and witness statements are crucial for building a strong dog bite case
- Compensation can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and scarring or disfigurement damages
- Children are disproportionately affected by dog attacks and may be entitled to additional considerations under Pennsylvania law
What Are Pennsylvania's Dog Bite Laws?
Pennsylvania has strong legal protections for people injured by dog bites. The state combines a strict liability rule with specific statutory provisions that hold owners accountable. Knowing these rules helps victims understand why owners and sometimes others may be responsible for the harm caused.
Pennsylvania’s Strict Liability Standard
Pennsylvania imposes strict liability on dog owners for injuries caused by their dogs. This means an owner is generally responsible even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. Unlike states that require proof the owner knew the dog was dangerous, Pennsylvania law places the responsibility directly on the owner.
Courts in Pennsylvania have upheld this principle in many cases. For example, in past rulings, victims injured by dogs running loose in public places were allowed to recover damages even though the dogs had no prior history of aggression. Judges have emphasized that public safety outweighs an owner’s argument about a lack of prior warning signs. These decisions show how the strict liability standard protects community members, whether the attack happened in a park, a neighborhood, or on a sidewalk.
The Dog Law of 1982 Explained
The Dog Law of 1982 provides more than general rules; it gives victims clear legal rights. In practice, this means:
- Leash requirements: When a dog runs free in a neighborhood like West End Allentown and attacks someone, the owner’s failure to control the dog creates immediate liability.
- Licensing and vaccination: If an unlicensed or unvaccinated dog bites a person, the owner not only faces penalties but also strengthens the victim’s case for negligence.
- Dangerous dog provisions: Owners of dogs labeled dangerous must carry insurance, register the dog, and use muzzles in public. If an owner ignores these requirements, victims can point to clear legal violations that support their claim.
This law functions both as a preventive measure and a tool for victims to hold owners accountable.
Exceptions to Owner Liability
Some exceptions limit liability. For instance:
- Trespassing: If the injured person entered property unlawfully, the owner may argue against liability.
- Provocation: If the dog was provoked, the owner may try to reduce responsibility.
- Law enforcement animals: Bites from police dogs in the course of duty often fall under separate rules.
How Much Compensation Can I Receive for a Dog Bite Injury?
The amount varies depending on the severity of the injury, long-term effects, and other damages. Courts and insurance companies evaluate economic and non-economic losses when deciding settlements or awards.
Medical Expenses and Future Treatment Costs
Medical expenses form the largest part of many claims. These include:
- Emergency care: Ambulance transport, ER treatment, and hospitalization.
- Ongoing care: Surgeries, medications, and physical therapy.
- Future treatment: Plastic surgery or continued rehabilitation.
For example, a person who suffers deep lacerations may require multiple reconstructive surgeries over several years. Courts consider not just current bills but the projected cost of ongoing care.
Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity
Many victims miss work during recovery. Some injuries also prevent a return to the same job or reduce earning potential. A warehouse worker bitten on the hand might lose the ability to grip tools, leading to permanent loss of earning capacity. Courts look at medical records, vocational assessments, and employment history to calculate these damages.
Pain and Suffering Damages
Non-economic damages compensate for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced enjoyment of life. Judges and juries often consider testimony from medical experts, mental health providers, and the victim themselves to assess these losses. For example, someone who can no longer jog around Lehigh Parkway because of ongoing leg pain may receive compensation for the loss of that activity.
Scarring and Disfigurement Compensation
Dog bites often leave scars, especially on the face, arms, and legs. Compensation addresses both the physical harm and the psychological impact. Courts consider factors like the visibility of scars, the age of the victim, and the effect on personal and professional life. Children who suffer facial scarring often receive higher awards due to the long-term impact on self-esteem and development.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Dog Attack?
The steps taken right after an attack shape the outcome of a legal claim. Quick action also helps protect health and safety.
Seeking Emergency Medical Care
Always get medical attention immediately. Even small puncture wounds carry infection risks. Hospitals can administer rabies and tetanus shots if needed. Holding off on treatment can harm both health and the strength of a legal claim.
Documenting the Scene and Injuries
Take photos of wounds, torn clothing, and the area where the attack occurred. Preserve clothing or personal items with bite marks or bloodstains; these may serve as physical evidence later. If possible, ask someone else to photograph the dog and its surroundings without placing themselves in danger.
Reporting the Incident to Authorities
Notify the Allentown Health Bureau or local police. An official report creates an important record for later legal action. Reporting also helps protect others in the community from future attacks.
Gathering Witness Information
Get names and contact information of anyone who saw the attack. Witnesses might include pedestrians, neighbors, or even delivery drivers passing by. Written statements or recorded recollections made soon after the incident help preserve accurate details.
Handling an Aggressive Dog
If the dog remains aggressive after the attack, avoid confrontation. Move to a safe place, call 911, and let authorities handle the animal. Trying to restrain the dog could lead to further injury and may complicate the legal process.
Who Can Be Held Liable for Dog Bite Injuries?
Liability doesn’t always fall on the dog’s owner alone. Other parties may share responsibility depending on the circumstances.
Dog Owner Responsibility
The primary responsibility rests with the owner. Owners are accountable for controlling their pets and preventing attacks.
Property Owner Liability
If a landlord or property manager knew a dangerous dog lived on the premises and did nothing, they may also be liable. For example, an apartment complex in East Allentown could be implicated if management ignored repeated complaints about an aggressive dog.
Courts have held landlords accountable when their failure to act created a predictable risk of harm for tenants and guests.
Third-Party Liability Scenarios
Responsibility can extend beyond owners and landlords. For example:
- Dog walkers: If a professional walker loses control of a dog that bites someone on Tilghman Street, they may share liability.
- Kennels or groomers: Businesses entrusted with dogs have a duty of care. If staff ignore safety rules and an attack happens, the facility may face responsibility.
- Caretakers or relatives: Anyone who assumes responsibility for a dog, even temporarily, may be held liable if the dog causes injuries.
What Defenses Do Dog Owners Use in Bite Cases?
Owners and insurance companies often attempt to reduce or deny claims by raising defenses.
Provocation Claims
Owners sometimes argue the injured person provoked the dog by teasing, hitting, or startling it. Courts evaluate the situation carefully to determine whether this defense holds. For example, simply walking past a dog on a public sidewalk is not considered provocation.
Trespassing Arguments
Another defense claims the injured person was trespassing. However, being on public property or lawfully on private property usually defeats this defense. A postal worker delivering mail, for example, is lawfully present even if they step onto private property.
Comparative Negligence in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania applies a comparative negligence system. If the injured person is found partially at fault, compensation may be reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if a victim ignored clear warning signs and approached a fenced-in dog, a jury might assign partial responsibility.
How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Lawsuit?
Timing matters in dog bite claims. Pennsylvania law sets strict deadlines for filing.
Pennsylvania’s Two-Year Statute of Limitations
You have two years from the date of the attack to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline usually ends the right to seek compensation.
Discovery Rule Exceptions
If injuries aren’t discovered right away, the statute may start when the harm becomes apparent. This often applies to infections or hidden medical issues.
Special Considerations for Minors
Children bitten by dogs get extended time. The two-year period typically begins once the child turns 18.
Common Types of Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bites cause a wide range of injuries, many of which require long-term care.
Puncture Wounds and Lacerations
Dog teeth often create deep puncture wounds that can damage muscles and blood vessels. Torn skin may require stitches or surgery.
Nerve Damage and Functional Impairment
Severe bites sometimes damage nerves, leading to numbness, weakness, or loss of movement in affected areas.
Psychological Trauma and PTSD
Many victims, especially children, develop anxiety, nightmares, or post-traumatic stress disorder after an attack. Therapy and counseling may be required for years.
Infections and Complications
Dog mouths contain bacteria that can cause dangerous infections. Untreated infections sometimes spread and create life-threatening complications.
How Our Attorneys Can Help
Leeson & Leeson provides legal guidance and representation for injured residents of Allentown and beyond. The firm takes on the legal burden so clients can focus on recovery.
Thorough Investigation of Your Case
Attorneys collect police reports, medical records, and witness statements to build a strong claim. They also track down surveillance footage, consult neighbors, and review prior complaints about the dog.
Medical Expert Consultation and Documentation
The firm works with medical professionals to explain the full scope of injuries and long-term impact. Expert testimony can show how a bite injury affects not just current health but future quality of life.
Negotiation with Insurance Companies
Insurance carriers often try to minimize payouts. Attorneys push back against low offers by presenting detailed evidence of losses. They highlight long-term consequences that insurers may try to ignore, such as future surgeries or emotional trauma.
Trial Representation When Necessary
If an insurer refuses to act responsibly, the firm is prepared to take the case to trial. Trial preparation includes building exhibits, preparing witnesses, and explaining the law to the jury in a way that shows why accountability matters.
Maximizing Your Compensation Recovery
By carefully documenting damages and preparing for all possible outcomes, the firm strengthens the client’s claim for medical expenses, lost wages, counseling costs, and other losses.
Frequently Asked Questions About Allentown Dog Bite Claims
Can I Sue If the Dog Has Never Bitten Anyone Before?
Yes. Pennsylvania’s strict liability rule allows claims even if the dog had no prior history of aggression.
What If I Was Partially at Fault for Provoking the Dog?
You may still recover damages, but any award could be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.
Does Homeowner's Insurance Cover Dog Bite Injuries?
Many homeowner’s and renter’s insurance policies cover dog bite liability, though some exclude certain breeds.
Can I Still Recover Damages If the Bite Happened on the Owner's Property?
Yes. Lawful visitors and even some workers, like delivery drivers, often have valid claims for bites that happen on the owner’s property.
How Do Dog Bite Cases Involving Children Differ From Adult Cases?
Children often require more medical treatment, may suffer long-term emotional harm, and receive special consideration under Pennsylvania law for timing of claims.
Contact Our Dog Bite Lawyers in Allentown Now
Every case involving a dog attack has unique facts and legal issues. Evidence can disappear quickly, and deadlines approach faster than many expect. If you or your child was bitten by a dog in Allentown, reach out to Leeson & Leeson today for a free case evaluation.
Call (610) 691-3320 to get started with an experienced Allentown personal injury lawyer who can help you pursue justice.
