Pittsburgh Dog Bite Lawyer

Pennsylvania Dog Bite Law

Dog bite claims in Pennsylvania are governed by a mix of strict liability and negligence rules, depending on the circumstances of the attack.

Strict Liability for Medical Expenses

Under Pennsylvania’s Dog Law (Section 502-A of the Pennsylvania Dog Law), dog owners are strictly liable for covering a victim’s medical costs if their dog bites someone. This means that even if the dog has never bitten anyone before and the owner had no prior knowledge of aggression, they must still pay for the victim’s medical expenses.

Negligence and “Dangerous Dog” Classification

If the victim is seeking compensation beyond medical bills—such as lost wages, pain and suffering, or emotional distress—they must typically prove that the dog had a history of vicious behavior or that the owner was negligent in handling the animal. Pennsylvania defines a “dangerous dog” as one that has:

• Inflicted severe injury without provocation
• Attacked a person or domestic animal without cause
• Been used in the commission of a crime
• A history of aggressive behavior

If a dog has previously bitten someone or shown signs of aggression, the owner may be held liable for all damages, especially if they failed to restrain or warn others.

Statute of Limitations

Victims in Pennsylvania generally have two years from the date of the bite to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline could bar you from recovering any compensation.

Recovering Compensation After a Dog Bite in PA

Dog bite injuries can range from minor puncture wounds to life-threatening trauma, and the financial aftermath can be overwhelming. At Friday & Cox LLC, we help clients pursue full and fair compensation for the following types of damages:

Medical Expenses

This includes emergency room visits, surgeries, follow-up treatments, rabies vaccinations, physical therapy, and reconstructive procedures.

Lost Wages and Earning Capacity

If your injuries prevent you from working—either temporarily or permanently—you may be entitled to recover lost income or loss of future earnings.

Pain and Suffering

We recognize that dog bites often lead to significant physical pain and long-lasting emotional distress, including anxiety, PTSD, or a newfound fear of dogs.

Scarring and Disfigurement

Permanent injuries, especially to the face or hands, can cause lifelong physical and psychological harm. These damages should be fully accounted for in your claim.

Property Damage

If the dog damaged your clothing, phone, or other personal property during the attack, those costs may also be recoverable.

Punitive Damages

In extreme cases where the dog owner acted with recklessness or malice—such as encouraging an attack—punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoing.

FAQs About Dog Bite Claims in Pittsburgh, PA

What should I do immediately after a dog bite?

Seek medical attention right away. If possible, gather information about the dog and its owner, take photos of your injuries, and file a report with local authorities or animal control. Then, contact a Pittsburgh dog bite lawyer at Friday & Cox LLC to discuss your legal options.

Can I file a claim if the dog belonged to a friend or family member?

Yes. While it may feel awkward, remember that most dog bite claims are handled through the dog owner's homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. Your relationship with the dog owner doesn’t prevent you from seeking compensation.

What if the dog had never bitten anyone before?

You may still be able to recover medical expenses under Pennsylvania’s strict liability law. For additional damages, you’ll need to demonstrate negligence or that the dog had dangerous tendencies.

What if I was partially at fault?

Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you were less than 51% at fault for the incident, you may still recover damages—though your compensation could be reduced proportionally to your share of fault.

Do I need a lawyer to file a dog bite claim?

While not legally required, hiring an experienced Pittsburgh dog bite lawyer significantly improves your chances of receiving fair compensation. Insurance companies often attempt to downplay the seriousness of your injuries or blame you for the attack. Our attorneys can level the playing field and advocate for your rights.

Why Choose Friday & Cox LLC?

At Friday & Cox LLC, we have extensive experience representing dog bite victims throughout Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania. Our legal team offers:

• Free initial consultations
• No fees unless we win your case
• Thorough investigation of the incident
• Aggressive negotiation with insurers
• Compassionate and personalized client service

We understand how traumatizing a dog attack can be—especially for children, who are among the most common victims. Let us help you hold negligent pet owners accountable and recover the compensation you need to heal.

Contact us today at (412) 900-8250 for a free consultation.