Pittsburgh Dog Bite Lawyers Represent Victims of Animal Attacks
Pennsylvania attorneys seek compensation for people hurt by others’ pets
For people who require medical care after an attack, dog bites are serious. Representing clients throughout Western Pennsylvania, Phil DiLucente & Associates, LLC advocates against animal owners responsible for the damage caused by their pets. If you’re dealing with physical injuries and emotional trauma because someone failed to maintain control of their dog, you can rely on our attorneys to advocate against defendants, their lawyers and insurance companies so that you can collect the payment you are entitled to for your injuries.
Diligent firm pursues reimbursement for clients’ medical bills
Various different types of physical harm can result from a dog bite, and our personal injury attorneys seek justice on behalf of plaintiffs who have suffered:
- Puncture wounds — Bites that break the skin could cause cuts and severe bleeding. These injuries should be treated quickly in order to minimize the possibility of infection.
- Force injuries — Breeds such as pit bulls and German shepherds can clamp their teeth down on victims with tremendous force, leading to fractured bones and muscle damage.
- Rabies — A dog that hasn’t received a rabies vaccination creates a serious disease risk for anyone it bites. If the owner hasn’t taken proper precautions or is unsure of the animal’s history, you might have to undergo a lengthy, painful series of shots.
Our personal injury litigators understand how to collect the necessary physical and witness evidence to build a case against a defendant pet owner.
Diligent litigators outline steps to take after a harmful dog bite
Don’t overlook the potential physical harm that can result from a dog bite or some other type of animal attack. Make sure you seek medical care as soon as possible, but if you’re able, there are steps you can take that might make it easier to recover damages from the dog’s owner. If the dog is unattended, it’s critical to get as much information as you can without risking another bite. Take pictures of the dog, your injuries and other details from the scene, including any broken fencing or other conditions that might have contributed to the incident. You should also preserve any clothing that might have been torn or stained when you were bitten.
Diligent advocates explain Pennsylvania laws on pet owner liability
Pennsylvania law holds that a pet owner is responsible for the medical bills incurred by a dog bite victim. This “strict liability” rule applies even if the animal had no history of aggressive behavior. However, in situations involving serious injuries inflicted by a dangerous dog, an injured plaintiff can pursue other types of damages, such as compensation for pain and suffering. Animals that have attacked others without provocation or have a propensity to harm others are considered dangerous under the relevant statute. In some cases, dog owners might try to avoid liability by claiming that the victim was trespassing or provoked the attack. Our firm gathers the relevant information and presses to secure the full amount of damages injured individuals deserve.
Contact a diligent Pittsburgh dog bite lawyer for a free consultation
Phil DiLucente & Associates, LLC in Downtown Pittsburgh advocates on behalf of Pennsylvanians who have been injured in dog bites. To make an appointment for a free initial consultation, please call 1.800.GET.PHIL or contact us online.