Dog Bite Accidents
Dog Bite Accidents

Protecting the Rights of Dog Bite Victims in Philadelphia

Dog bites can cause physical scars, emotional trauma, and significant financial burdens. At Gross, Gross, & Newman Law, we’re here to stand up for victims of dog bites and animal attacks. With compassionate guidance and aggressive representation, we’ll help you hold negligent pet owners accountable and secure the compensation you need.

We can help.
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Investigating the incident to prove owner negligence and liability.

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Negotiating with insurance companies to secure fair compensation for your injuries.

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Gathering medical records, witness statements, and other evidence to build a strong case.

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Representing you in court if a settlement cannot be reached.

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Your Advocate After an Animal Attack

A dog bite can leave victims with lasting physical and emotional damage, from painful injuries to fear and anxiety around animals. Pennsylvania law holds pet owners responsible for their dogs’ actions, particularly when they fail to prevent attacks. At Gross, Gross, & Newman Law, we understand the complexities of dog bite cases and are committed to fighting for the justice you deserve. Whether you’ve suffered a minor injury or a serious attack, our experienced team is here to help.

Our attorneys take a thorough approach to every dog bite case. We investigate the dog’s history, the circumstances of the attack, and the owner’s behavior to determine liability. By building a strong case supported by evidence, we aim to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, and emotional trauma.

Dog bite cases often involve disputes with pet owners and insurance companies. Our team is skilled at handling these conflicts, negotiating aggressively on your behalf, and, if necessary, pursuing justice through litigation. Let us take on the legal challenges while you focus on recovery.

  • Have you or a family member been injured due to a dog bite?

    Good news! Pennsylvania does not have the “free bite” rule. While Philadelphia is a very dog-friendly town, all pet owners have a responsibility to the public to make sure that their dogs are well behaved and trained. According to a US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) study, approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur nationally each year, and 800,000 of those bites require medical care. Dog bites are in fact a common occurrence, causing physical and mental damage, including face, hand and other body scars and infection. Some breeds are more likely than others to be aggressive, and dog attacks can result in serious injuries and even human deaths. In many instances, someone bitten by a dog already knows the animal and regards the dog owner as a friendly neighbor. Many people suffering from a dog bite injury are hesitant to take legal action against their neighbor for the losses they suffer. It is important to remember that the legal action would be against the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance policy, not the neighbor personally. While a dog bite victim might be wary of ruining a good neighborly relationship by pursuing a claim, it is important to remember that this is one of the reasons insurance exists: to cover damages and make injured people whole again, while protecting the insured person from an out-of-pocket claim. A good neighbor will also feel very bad about the hurt their dog has caused you and would want you to get your injuries treated and have your expenses covered. It’s about doing the right thing. Ask Our Attorneys in Philadelphia for Help Here at the Law Offices Bernard M. Gross, P.C., we understand how to properly handle a dog bite incident.  Our experienced lawyers in Philadelphia, PA have a proven track record of success in these cases, which are often fairly easy to resolve with the proper representation. We will not let defense attorneys and insurance adjusters prevent you from recovering for your damages caused by a dog bite or attack.  Call to schedule your FREE consultation by dialing 215-561-3600 or use our “contact us” box available here to send us a message.  We are here for you and ready to protect your rights.

FAQs

  • Who can be held liable for a dog bite?

    In Pennsylvania, dog owners are typically held liable for injuries caused by their pets. If the dog was known to be dangerous or the owner failed to control it, liability is clear. Additionally, landlords or property owners might share responsibility if they knowingly allowed a dangerous dog on their property. At Gross, Gross, & Newman Law, we evaluate all aspects of your case to identify liable parties.

  • What should I do immediately after a dog bite?

    Seek medical attention immediately, even for minor injuries, to prevent infection. Document the injury with photos and obtain the dog owner’s contact information. Report the incident to local animal control or law enforcement. Avoid speaking with insurance companies until you consult an attorney to protect your rights.

  • Can I still file a claim if I provoked the dog?

    In some cases, provocation can reduce or eliminate liability. However, the circumstances matter. If the dog’s reaction was excessive or the owner failed to take reasonable precautions, you may still have a case. Our attorneys can review the details and advise on the strength of your claim.

  • What types of compensation can I recover?

    Victims of dog bites may recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and in some cases, punitive damages. The specific amount depends on the severity of the injury and the impact on your life.

  • How long do I have to file a dog bite claim?

    In Pennsylvania, you generally have two years from the date of the attack to file a personal injury claim. Acting promptly is essential to preserve evidence and build a strong case. Contact our team as soon as possible to start the process.

  • What if the dog owner denies responsibility?

    If the owner denies responsibility, we’ll gather evidence such as witness statements, medical records, and the dog’s history to prove negligence. Our attorneys are experienced in handling disputes and will fight tirelessly to hold the owner accountable.

  • Do I need a lawyer for a dog bite case?

    Yes. An attorney ensures your rights are protected, handles negotiations with insurance companies, and builds a case to maximize your compensation. At Gross, Gross, & Newman Law, we offer expert guidance and representation for dog bite victims.

  • How much does it cost to hire a lawyer for a dog bite case?

    We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and only owe a fee if we win your case. This ensures access to top-quality legal representation without financial strain.

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