How to Find the Best Dog Bite Attorney in Philadelphia

Unfortunately, no. Even though Pennsylvania law holds owners strictly liable for medical damages, there are circumstances where the victim may share or be entirely at fault. For instance, where the biting incident occurred can play a role. If you were trespassing on their private property, you might be unable to pursue damages. 

In situations where you provoked the attack or knew the dog was vicious but approached anyway, the court could reduce the amount of compensation you receive by the percentage they feel you are at fault for your own injuries. If you are more than 50% at fault, you lose the right to sue under state modified comparative negligence law.

The reality is that the defense will have an attorney to protect the liable parties' best interests. If an insurer is involved, you can bet they have a team of lawyers to minimize your damage claim. They may even try to deflect blame for the dog bite onto you wrongfully! Remember, insurance companies are in the business of making money, so they will do everything possible to avoid paying you the compensation you deserve. 

Further, if you try to negotiate a settlement on your own, it's a fact you won't receive the level of damages you deserve. You don't know the law like defense attorneys do and may not know all of the losses that qualify in your claim. However, a skilled attorney like those at Morgan & Morgan has represented countless individuals and families in your situation over the past 35 years and won over $25 billion in damages. We know this area of law extensively and can ensure you get a just and fair settlement or jury award that covers the scope of your injuries. 

Pennsylvania law only gives you two years from the date of sustaining your dog bite injuries to sue for compensation. This may seem like a long time, but insurers and defense attorneys can purposely delay negotiations and run down the clock for filing a timely suit. So don't wait and speak with a reputable personal injury attorney as soon as possible, or you risk losing your right to get compensated. 

While the dog bite laws cover related medical costs, a personal injury suit based on negligence by the dog owner can obtain the compensation that covers:

• Pain and suffering
• Disability
• Lost wages
• Loss of consortium
• Mental anguish
• Disfigurement
• Wrongful death
• Burial costs
• And more

It's also possible that your attorney may be able to convince the court to award punitive damages. Even though a personal injury suit is a civil matter, this type of damage could be granted in cases where the defendant's actions were so egregious that the court wishes to punish them financially for their recklessness. Again, speak with a qualified Philadelphia dog bite attorney at Morgan & Morgan to determine if your case rises to this level of award. 

At Morgan & Morgan, we regularly represent families and individuals throughout Philadelphia who have suffered traumatic dog bite injuries because of neglectful owners. We have the extensive knowledge and practice record to successfully represent your best interest and ensure you receive the justice you deserve through financial compensation.

Since 1988, our law firm has fought for the rights and well-being of our clients. As a result, whether we reach a settlement with the liable parties or win a jury trial because the insurer wouldn't negotiate, you will never have to worry about being treated fairly.  

Please fill out our free, no-obligation case review form today to learn how our attorneys may be able to help.