I was bit by a dog! Do I have a case?
Jan. 1, 2023
In Pennsylvania, dog owners are strictly liable for any injuries caused by their dogs. This means that if a dog bites or attacks someone, the owner is responsible for any damages or injuries resulting from the attack, regardless of whether the owner was negligent or knew the dog was dangerous.
Pennsylvania does not have a "one bite" policy when it comes to dog bites. In Pennsylvania, the law holds dog owners strictly liable for any damages caused by their dogs biting someone, regardless of the dog's prior history of aggression or whether the owner knew or should have known of the dog's aggressive tendencies. This means that if a dog bites someone in Pennsylvania, the owner is financially responsible for any injuries or damages caused by the bite, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before or shown any signs of aggression.
There are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if the victim was trespassing on the owner's property or was committing a crime at the time of the bite, the owner may not be held liable. Additionally, if the victim was teasing, tormenting, or abusing the dog, the owner may not be held responsible for the bite. It's important to note that in Pennsylvania, a dog owner can be found strictly liable even if the dog has never bitten anyone before or shown any signs of aggression. As a result, it's important for dog owners to take steps to prevent their dogs from biting, such as properly training and socializing their pets and using caution when introducing their dogs to new people or situations.
If you have been bitten by a dog in Pennsylvania, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible and report the bite to local authorities. You may also be entitled to seek compensation from the dog's owner for your injuries and damages. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options and assist you in pursuing a claim for compensation.
Overall, Pennsylvania's dog bite laws are designed to protect the public from dangerous dogs and hold dog owners accountable for the actions of their pets. It is important for dog owners to take their responsibilities seriously and for the public to be aware of their legal rights if they are injured by a dog bite.