From service animals to family companions, dogs serve an important role in many people’s lives. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for these animals to cause devastating harm in an attack. Even a bite from a small canine can result in lacerations and infection that require medical attention.
If you or a loved one were the victim of a canine attack, you should get in touch with a Southampton dog bite lawyer. An experienced local attorney could help you decide whether to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the dog’s owner to recover compensation for your financial and personal losses that resulted from the attack.
Common Injuries Suffered in Dog Attacks
Dog bites can leave people with severe physical injuries, such as deep lacerations, disfigurement, broken and crushed bones, and damage to the muscles, nerves, and tissue. In addition to physical wounds, dog attacks also frequently leave people with lasting emotional trauma. People who were attacked by an aggressive canine often need therapy to help them manage their newfound fear of dogs. They may also struggle with depression, anger, feelings of inadequacy, and anxiety as they try to recover from their physical injuries.
The cost of treatments for the physical injuries and emotional anguish could quickly add up. If a person’s injuries prevent them from working, they may be struggling financially. Fortunately, an experienced Southampton attorney understands the challenges faced by someone bitten by a dog and could work to help a claimant obtain a full recovery that adequately covers all of their physical, emotional, and financial losses.
What Could Impact the Severity of a Canine Bite?
Even a small bite from a dog should be taken seriously as it could lead to serious infections, such as rabies. However, certain other factors could impact the severity of a dog attack. The breed and size of the dog could impact the extent of damage the animal could inflict as bigger breeds often have stronger jaws and larger teeth. Additionally, the age and size of the person being attacked could play a significant role in the severity of the attack, as children can suffer catastrophic harm from a canine bite.
What are the Dog Bite Laws in Southampton?
Pennsylvania sets forth several complex laws regarding dog ownership and liability. Dog owners and walkers are legally obligated to control, confine, and restrain their animals. Pennsylvania categorizes certain dogs as dangerous dogs. Courts treat these dangerous dogs differently, and their owners are held to a different legal standard.
Under Pennsylvania law, pet owners are generally legally responsible for dog bites. However, a dog’s owner may escape liability if they can prove that the claimant provoked the attack or was trespassing at the time of the attack.
Call a Southampton Dog Bite Attorney Today
After being attacked by an aggressive canine, you are likely facing severe physical and emotional trauma that requires expensive treatment. Pet owners are responsible for the actions of their dogs and therefore could be held financially responsible for your resulting damages. Contact a Southampton dog bite lawyer at our firm today to discuss your legal options.
