Legal Question in Personal Injury in Pennsylvania
My daughter was bit by a pitbull on MOnday while we were walking down the sidewalk. The dog owners son opened the door and the dog came after both us. I find out that 2 different vets informed her the pitbull was a threat and shouldn't be in her care. Thankfully my daughter wasn't injured that bad. Two puncture wounds to her back and she is 3 years old. About 3 different neighbors called 911 and my daughter was taken to the ER. The medical Insurance covers her bills but is the dog owner responsible for anything? Negligence? Our bloody torn clothes? My daughters fear? pain?
5 Answers from Attorneys
Yes, it certainly sounds like the dog's owner was on notice of the dog's propensity to attack, and could be on the hook for any damages that you and your daughter have suffered. Those damages include physical and mental/emotional. I suggest you sit down with an attorney ASAP.
Best of luck to you. Feel free to contact me offline if you'd like to discuss your case further.
Cary B. Hall, Esquire
Law Offices of Cary B. Hall, L.L.C.
121 East Chestnut Street, Suite 205
Souderton, PA 18964
T: (267) 663-9995
F: (215) 525-4364
http://www.carybhall.com
You can take steps to have the dog declared dangerous. Read our free article http://www.thepanjinjurylawyers.com/library/pennsylvania-dog-lawdangerous-dogs.cfm
Your daughter would be able to make a claim against the owner for negligence, however, depending on the severity of the injuries, doing so might not be worth the time and effort involved in filing suit, etc. If the dog owner has homeowner's insurance, then you may be able to make a claim with that homeowner's insurance company. Good luck.
Absolutely. You describe a classic example of dog owner negligence. While I don't know the name of the boy who let the dog loose (and this might be a factor in assessing whether he can legally be responsible) the owner's prior knowledge of the dog's propensity for aggression means the owner will be liable for harm the dog caused. For more information, see the dog bite resources on our website at http://www.yourerieaccidentlawyers.com/library/erie-dog-bite-lawyers-erie-animal-attack-lawyers-page.cfm
I'm sorry you & your daughter has such a terrifying experience. I hope she makes a fast recovery!! Your daughter has a good case. Please take photos of the wounds today before they disappear. I have been handling dog attack cases for over 25 years & would be glad to speak with you. This is a free consultation. There is no attorney fee unless & until a monetary recovery is made. In any case, good luck to you & your daughter!!
I agree with advice offered by th the various attorneys. You should discuss your case with an attorney as soon as possible. If you would like to talk further about your matter feel free to contact me.
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