Philadelphia Dog Bite Lawyer

Q: What are the main defenses against dog bite claims?

The two most common defenses are: Trespassing : Although trespassers generally cannot recover for dog bites, remember that you are not a trespasser as long as you had a legal right to be where you were at the time of the attack. Provocation : Your claim might be defeated if you provoked the dog. However, the question of whether the provocation was “sufficient” is where opposing parties sometimes fight it out in court, or at the settlement table.

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How a Philadelphia Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help

The owner of a dog that attacks a person may be held responsible for the victim’s injuries. To be successful in winning a dog bite case, it must be shown that the owner knew or had reason to know that his or her dog had a “vicious propensity.” In other words, a dog bite lawyer must show that the owner knew or should have known that the dog was dangerous or could bite someone. Filing a dog bite lawsuit is crucial for seeking compensation for medical bills, holding dog owners accountable, and preventing future attacks.

At the personal injury law firm of Mattiacci Law, we have years of experience in handling dog bite claims in Philadelphia, across Pennsylvania, and even dog bite injuries in New Jersey. Our attorneys have successfully recovered money for clients in a variety of dog bite cases. Some of these cases have involved children being bitten by dogs, people being bitten by dogs while in public areas, and delivery drivers who have been bitten while making a delivery at someone’s home.

Contact a skilled Philadelphia dog bite lawyer at our firm today for a free consultation.

Common Injuries from Dog Bite Cases

Dog bites can cause horrific injuries. These can include severe lacerations, puncture wounds, muscle damage, nerve damage, and permanent scarring and disfigurement.

Children are at particular risk of facial injuries from dog bite cases. Given children’s shorter heights, their faces are usually closer to the same level as a dog’s face. When a dog bites a child’s face the results can be devastating. Depending on the severity of the bite, a child may require plastic surgery, revision surgeries, and suffer serious tissue damage and scarring.

Dogs can also bite adults on the face, but bites to the legs, hands, and arms are also very common. Regardless of where on the body a dog bites a person, the injuries can be dire.

What to do After a Dog Bite

There are a number of things that can be done after a dog bite. First and foremost, call 911 if you require emergency care. Otherwise, seek medical treatment. Prompt medical attention is incredibly important, especially for lacerations or bites that may require stitches or surgery. If a dog bite results in grievous injuries, such as significant loss of blood or facial injuries, calling 911 or seeking immediate emergency treatment may be necessary even before attempting to clean or dress a wound. When in doubt, call 911

There are a number of immediate steps that can be done to clean the wound and dress it even before getting to a doctor. According to the Cleveland Clinic this includes:

Treatment after a dog bite will also include an assessment of whether vaccinations should be given. A tetanus booster is common. In certain circumstances, a doctor may want to administer rabies shots. This generally involves a series of injections given to the victim over a course of 14 days. Seeking immediate medical care is important so that an initial shot can be given as quickly as possible after the attack.

Also, it is important to report the incident to authorities. The local police and health department should be notified of the attack. This will often trigger an investigation into the incident. Police or county or township authorities will determine whether the dog must be quarantined or evaluated for rabies. Dog owners may also be cited for a violation of the law, especially if the animal is a dangerous dog and the owner failed to comply with the law in keeping the dog restrained.

Pennsylvania also permits people to submit a complaint about a dog bite or other issue through the state’s website. However, it is wise to contact a Pennsylvania dog bite lawyer for advice and help before reporting an incident. The lawyer can assist in notifying the proper authorities and submitting information about the incident. It may be wise to speak to an dog bite attorney prior to submitting an online complaint to ensure the complaint is made with all necessary information.

Investigating Dog Bite Cases

A thorough investigation helps build a stronger case against a dog’s owner after a dog bite. The dog bite attorneys at our firm perform detailed investigations into the history of the dog and owner. This investigation often includes evaluating the owner’s actions in training, socializing, handling, and exercising the dog. Many times, a dog’s behavior is a result of the training or lack thereof provided by an owner. If an owner does not properly control, socialize, and train an animal, it can cause or contribute to the animal’s tendency or willingness to bite someone.

Helpful information about the dog’s past, including prior aggressiveness or attacks, may be obtained from witnesses. This can include speaking with neighbors, delivery workers familiar with the property, or others that may have knowledge of the dog or its history. Some of this can be determined before suit is filed, while other times it is necessary to subpoena people after suit is filed to get additional information.

Our firm has also worked with local governments to investigate dog bites. In Pennsylvania, many counties and townships have employees who will investigate when dogs or other domestic animals bite people. They also may record if a dog bites another dog or animal. This may be done by a county health department or even a local police force.

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania also has a Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement, which is organized under the state’s Department of Agriculture. The Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement regulates the activities of dogs who are classified as dangerous under the state’s laws. The Bureau also administers licensing and rabies vaccinations for dogs in the commonwealth.

Speak to a Skilled Philadelphia Dog Bite Lawyer Today

It takes knowledge, skill, and tenacity to handle dog bite cases in Philadelphia. There is no substitute for experience. Our Philadelphia dog bite attorneys have handled dog bite cases in Philadelphia for nearly twenty years. When you need help you can rely upon the team at Mattiacci Law to fight for you.

Our dog bite lawyers stand ready to answer your questions. We are here to help. Contact our firm now for a free consultation. The initial consultation is completely free. Call us now at 215.914.6919

Experienced Dog Bite Injury Lawyer Representing Victims Across Pennsylvania

Dog bite victims deserve a Philadelphia dog bite lawyer who understands the intricacies of Pennsylvania dog bite laws. At Mattiacci Law, we are committed to fighting for the rights and compensation of dog bite victims across the state, ensuring they receive justice and rightful compensation. John Mattiacci, owner of the firm, leverages nearly two decades of experience in dog bite cases to help our clients navigate the legal complexities and obtain the best possible outcome. Our team understands the devastating effects of dog attacks on dog bite victims, including the physical, emotional, and psychological impacts, and is ready to advocate for you.

Compensation for Dog Bites and Attacks

Common dog bite injuries such as severe cuts, scratches, broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, facial injuries, internal organ damage, puncture wounds, nerve damage, blood loss, soft tissue damage, and psychological damage like post-traumatic stress disorder highlight the severity and variety of injuries that can occur. Dog bite injuries can cause severe physical and psychological trauma. A successful dog bite claim can secure financial compensation to aid recovery. Economic damages include medical bills, lost wages, and future lost earning capacity. Non-economic damages cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of life’s pleasures. In cases involving a dangerous dog or particularly negligent dog owners, punitive damages may apply, holding them accountable for reckless or willful conduct.

Establishing a Dog Owner's Negligence

In Pennsylvania, establishing a dog owner’s negligence is essential in a dog bite case. A Philadelphia dog bite attorney will investigate whether the dog has a history of aggression or if the owner failed to restrain their dog properly. Evidence that the dog lunged at people, snapped, or showed difficulty in being controlled could be enough to establish the dog owner’s negligence. Our team will conduct a thorough investigation to build a strong case, including interviewing witnesses and reviewing any existing reports or complaints.

Children and Dog Bite Cases

Children are particularly susceptible to dog bite injuries, as their height often places their faces near a dog’s mouth. This can result in severe facial lacerations, nerve damage, and psychological trauma. At Mattiacci Law, we understand the unique challenges of representing young dog bite victims. We will fight for compensation covering immediate and future medical expenses, pain and suffering, and any psychological impact the injury may have on the child’s development.

What is the “One Bite” Rule?

There is a defense that is used in the United States to defend against dog bite claims. That defense is usually referred to as the “one bite rule” or the “one free bite rule.” The argument is that an owner cannot know a dog is dangerous or has vicious tendencies unless it actually bites someone. If you are are the first person bitten by the dog, the owner argues that he or she should not be responsible as the dog had not bitten anyone in the past.

This is not the law in Pennsylvania. There is no such thing as “one free bite” under Pennsylvania law. In Pennsylvania, a dog can be shown to have vicious propensities even if it did not bite anyone in the past.

According to John Mattiacci, an experienced dog bite attorney, if an owner knows his or her dog lunges at people, snaps at people, barks loudly, or is difficult to control, those facts may be enough to show that the dog was potentially dangerous. Also, if the dog had been aggressive toward other pets or had bitten other animals, this can also be important evidence to show a dog’s vicious propensity. The key is investigating the case thoroughly to uncover as much information as possible.

Types of Damages in a Dog Bite Case

A comprehensive dog bite claim should factor in various forms of compensation to ensure victims are fairly compensated:

What is a Dangerous Dog Under Pennsylvania Law?

Pennsylvania has a written law that defines a “dangerous dog.” If a dog is found to be a dangerous dog under the law then the owner can be convicted of harboring a dangerous dog. The statute is 3 P.S. Agriculture § 459-502-A.

In order for a dog to be a “dangerous dog” under Pennsylvania law, it must have:

(i) Inflicted severe injury on a human being without provocation on public or private property.

(ii) Killed or inflicted severe injury on a domestic animal, dog or cat without provocation while off the owner’s property.

(iii) Attacked a human being without provocation.

(iv) Been used in the commission of a crime.

In addition to one of the actions listed above, the dog must also have one or both of the following:

(iv) Been used in the commission of a crime.

(2) A propensity to attack human beings and/or domestic animals, dogs or cats without provocation.

Under the statute, a propensity to attack may be proven by a single incident. Also, an attack on a human does not necessarily mean a bite, and certain cases have shown that aggressively chasing people, among other things, may be sufficient.

An experienced dog bite lawyer will use this statute to help make a case for liability against a dog owner. If a victim can present evidence that a dog has a history of inflicting severe injury, killing or severely injuring another domestic animal while off the owner’s property, or attacking a human without provocation, then an argument can be made that dog qualifies as a “dangerous dog” under the statute. If the owner didn’t take adequate steps to secure the dangerous dog, it bolsters the argument that the owner is responsible for any attack.

Finding All Potential Parties

The Philadelphia dog bite lawyers at the firm make every effort to identify everyone who may be responsible for a dog bite. This includes not only the owner of the dog but also dog walkers, the landlord of the property where the dog is kept or was located, the breeder or seller of the dog, and any person that trained it.

At times, people will rescue dogs and assume responsibility for those animals. It is important for rescues, relocation services, and shelters to provide as much information as possible about a dog’s history and socialization. If such information is available, it should be given to people who consider adopting or rescuing a pet.

If the shelter or rescue fails to disclose a history of aggressive tendencies or attacks, it could potentially lead to a claim against them.

How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in Philadelphia?

In Philadelphia, individuals have a limited time to file a dog bite injury claim. Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations sets a two-year window from the date of the incident to initiate a lawsuit. If you fail to file within this period, your case may be dismissed, and you could lose the chance to recover compensation for your injuries. Acting promptly helps gather essential evidence and witness statements while details are still fresh. This timeframe ensures you protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Do I Need an Attorney for a Dog Bite Injury?

An attorney can significantly improve your chances of receiving fair compensation after a dog bite injury. Navigating the complexities of Pennsylvania’s personal injury laws and insurance claims is challenging. An experienced attorney can evaluate your case, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. They will build a strong case, ensuring medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma are considered when seeking compensation. Working with an attorney provides the legal support you need to focus on your recovery while they handle the complexities of your claim.

Call a Philadelphia Dog Bite Injury Attorney Today

If you have been injured by a dog, your first priority is to seek medical attention. Your second priority, however, is to speak with an experienced Pennsylvania dog bite lawyer. Contact our firm today for a free, no-obligation initial consultation, either by filling out our online contact page or by calling my toll-free number at (866) 617-0050.

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Working with William coppal and his associate Kristin Collins was a great experience. When I hurt my hand I didn't know what I to do, they helped make it right in the end. Thank you bill and Kristin!

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The team at Mattiacci Law helped my husband and I tirelessly over the last couple of years. They were exceptionally fast when it came to replying to our emails regarding our questions and concerns, and they truthfully gave us the best advice when it came to our particular situation. We can say that we confidentially recommend the Mattiacci Law group to anyone who is in need of legal services. We know firsthand just how great this firm is!

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Working with this firm was amazing I would definitely recommend them for your legal needs no question went unanswered I never had to wonder about what was going on because the communication was impeccable even though it was a long drawn out case my lawyer William Coppol and his team saw It threw to the end and made sure that I got what I deserved once again thank you Mattiacci Law for everything

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The Mattiaci Law Firm provided high quality service and conducted business in a professional manner. During my suit I was kept well update and well informed. John did a phenomenal job and I highly recommend using this firm for any legal needs.

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We could not have asked to be treated any better. This law firm went above and beyond to fight for the rights for my son. Every question asked was answered quickly and respectfully. Thank you for your efforts and professionalism in our matter, I would definitely recommend Mattiacci Law.

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22:41 28 Dec 23

I had a remarkable experience with MATTIACCI LAW, LLC, who represented me after I was involved in an automotive accident in 2019. Due to the Covid pandemic, my case was delayed but finally concluded in 2023. John and his team exhibited a genuine commitment to their clients, providing regular updates throughout the entire process. John, in particular, acted as a staunch advocate on my behalf, ensuring that my voice was heard. Ultimately, the outcome I desired was achieved, thanks to the tireless efforts of John and his team. If the need arises in the future, I would undoubtedly seek Mr. John Mattiacci Jr.'s legal expertise again.

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letsvlogwith bigjohn

00:26 19 Oct 23

Just shy of 2 years ago, I was in a terrible motorcycle accident that left me in a coma for 5-6 days. I suffered countless life-threatening & serious injuries, and it's truly a miracle that I survived. From the moment I hired Mattiacci Law LLC to represent me, John, his paralegal Kristin and the entire team worked day and night to fight for me, when I didn't have the strength or ability to fight for myself. Now, just one month shy of the 2 year anniversary of my accident, and the legal battle is over! I am finally able to focus all of my attention and remaining strength on my health and recovery, all thanks to Mattiacci Law LLC!!To John, Kristin and the rest of the team, Thank you so much for all that you have done for me. This was my first time dealing with something of this nature, and I could not have been more impressed and grateful. Thank you.If you are in need of a lawyer and firm to represent you, and you haven't considered Mattiacci Law LLC yet, it's time you should. John and the entire team will work endlessly to ensure that the battle is not over until it's won! I am able to finally live peacefully again, with a smile on my face because of Mattiacci Law LLC!

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Philadelphia Dog Bite Blog Articles

Does a Philadelphia Dog Bite Injury Claim Settlement Require a Lawyer?

February 15, 2024 | Read Time: 6 minutes

There are many benefits to owning a dog, but dog ownership also has risks for both the owner and those who come in contact with the dog. One of those includes the risk of a dog bite. Injuries caused by dog bites can be both physically and emotionally traumatic, and they frequently leave victims with […]
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Can You Sue a Dog Owner If Their Dog Attacks You in Philadelphia?

December 15, 2023 | Read Time: 7 minutes

How Bad Does a Dog Bite Have to Be to Sue? Dogs are everywhere. They’re loyal pets, hard-working police dogs, and serve in many other capacities throughout Pennsylvania and the United States as a whole. Dogs are the most popular animals to have as pets, with an estimated 48 million American households having at least […]
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Maximizing Your Compensation in a Pennsylvania Dog Bite Case

February 1, 2023 | Read Time: 6 minutes

Dog bite cases result in settlements ranging from a few thousand dollars to five-, six-, and even seven figures. The main factor is the level of injury suffered by the plaintiff. In addition, settlements factor in the impact on the victim’s overall life and well-being. In rare cases, punitive damages apply due to outrageous actions […]
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Top FAQs to Philadelphia Dog Bite Lawyers

What kinds of damages might I be entitled to?

Three types of damages are available in Pennsylvania, depending on the circumstances.

Economic damages are easily countable losses such as medical bills, lost wages, future lost earning capacity, and related expenses.
Non-economic damages are compensation for physical and psychological harm, including physical pain and suffering, loss of life’s pleasures, embarrassment and humiliation, and mental harm and anxiety.
Punitive damages may awarded in certain cases where the defendant’s conduct was more than just negligence, but was willful, wanton, or showed reckless indifference to the rights of another (e.g., taking no actions to restrain or leash a dog that has bitten someone in the past and knowingly allowing the dog to roam free around other people).

The dog owner is my next door neighbor. Will pressing a claim against him drive him into bankruptcy?

Probably not, as long as he maintains homeowners or renters insurance. These types of policies commonly pay out on dog bite claims, although the policy might contain certain loopholes (a coverage exclusion for pit bull attacks, for example). Generally, it is uncommon for a defendant to be driven into bankruptcy in all but the most significant cases. Most times, claims and lawsuits are resolved for the available insurance coverage.

How much do homeowners insurance policies pay out in claims for dog bite injuries every year?

Homeowners insurance policies pay out about $600 million per year to dog bite victims, representing about a third of all homeowners insurance claims. Renters insurance policies pay out still more. The value of each claim is dependent on the facts of that specific case.

How much is the average insurance payout for a dog bite claim?

The Insurance Information Institute estimates the average payout at $33,230 for 2016. Remember that this is only an average – the amount awarded depends largely on the severity of your injuries. This figure often includes more than just medical expenses. The value of each case must be determined based on facts of each specific incident and the extent of the injuries. Also, there also can be no recovery at all if it cannot be proven that an owner had notice of a dog’s vicious tendencies. This is another reason why getting an experience Philadelphia dog bite lawyer is helpful.

What are the main defenses against dog bite claims?

The two most common defenses are:

Trespassing: Although trespassers generally cannot recover for dog bites, remember that you are not a trespasser as long as you had a legal right to be where you were at the time of the attack.
Provocation: Your claim might be defeated if you provoked the dog. However, the question of whether the provocation was “sufficient” is where opposing parties sometimes fight it out in court, or at the settlement table.

Can a tenant dog owner's landlord be held liable?

Yes, under certain circumstances. It may be easier to win a claim against an “in possession landlord” (who lives or works on the premises) than to win a claim against an “out of possession” (absentee) landlord. Either way, however, you will have to show notice and negligence on the part of the landlord. This is something that depends on the facts of each specific case.

How does the statute of limitations work for a dog bite claim?

In Pennsylvania, you generally have two years from the date of the attack to file a lawsuit. If you fail to file a lawsuit in this time, your claim will almost certainly be forever barred. Settlement negotiations will also be impossible, since the defendant will have no motivation to negotiate with you if he or she knows you can’t take your case to court. This is why it is important to contact an experienced dog bite lawyer immediately after an attack.

Does it make any difference if I was hurt while separating two fighting dogs?

Technically it makes no difference, unless one of the fighting dogs was your own and it was your own dog that bit you. Some defendants may try to make a assertion of mistaken identity in order to escape liability, however.

How can I afford to hire a dog bite injury lawyer?

You don’t need to front any money to hire the dog bite attorneys at our firm. We do not change any advance fees – instead, any attorney fee can be contingent and is paid as a percentage of your eventual compensation. Our firm is only paid if we recover money in the case. If there is no recovery, there is no fee. We are only paid if we win.

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1500 John F Kennedy Blvd # 620, Philadelphia, PA 19102

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110 Marter Ave #502a, Moorestown, NJ 08057

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DISCLAIMER: Personal injury lawyer John A. Mattiacci, Jr. is an attorney at Mattiacci Law, LLC, which practices in PA & NJ. John and the firm only provide legal advice to clients after having entered into an attorney-client relationship. Our website does not create an attorney-client relationship. The description of awards and cases previously handled do not guarantee a similar outcome in current or future cases as every case is different. This website is Attorney Advertising. This web site is designed for general information only. The information presented at this site should not be construed to be formal legal advice or the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Super Lawyers, Rising Stars, Martindale-Hubbell, AVVO, and other organizations that rate attorneys are not designations that have been approved by the State Supreme Courts or the American Bar Association.