Philadelphia personal injury attorney Edith Pearce is sometimes called Philadelphia’s children’s injury lawyer, as she has a long history of representing injured children. In addition to being able to instantly form a connection with parents, she is the daughter of a veterinarian and is easily one of the most well-suited dog bite attorneys in Philadelphia for handling dog bite cases involving children. Dog bite settlement amounts vary, but they can be important to help pay for medical expenses and more.
Dog attacks and your child
One of the most devastating and terrifying sounds any parent can hear is their child crying while a dog is growling and biting. These traumatizing attacks send hundreds of Philadelphia’s children to hospitals each and every year.
Injury claims are often complicated by most injuries occuring at a relative’s home. And, in many cases, the dog may have no history of aggression. Of course, nobody wants to sue their mother because their family canine bit their child. However, at the same time, everyone wants what is best for their child. If you are in this predicament, contact us for a free and friendly consultation and we will discuss your options with you.
What is a severe injury?
Under Pennsylvania’s strict liability dog bite law, “severe injury” is “any physical injury that results in broken bones or disfiguring lacerations requiring multiple sutures or cosmetic surgery.”
According to a study done by the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, most pediatric injuries occur with children ages 2-12, with the peak months being June and July. Infants are most often bitten on the face, while older children are bitten most often on the arms and legs. In Philadelphia, over 50% of recorded dog attacks are by pit bulls, followed up by rottweilers and then other breeds.
Do friendly dogs bite children?
To recover after being attacked or bitten, the victim must prove that the dog inflicted severe injury without provocation.
Sometimes dogs see themselves as superior to small children, especially if they are not used to them. A dog that has never shown an ounce of aggression to an adult can still attack a child they see as inferior for what may be completely reasonable behavior.
Defining “provocation” and “reasonable dog behavior” is complicated and depends on your unique situation. If you find yourself in this position, go over the details with an experienced dog bite lawyer.
Contact a Philadelphia Children’s Dog Bite lawyer
Injuries to children are one of the most painful experiences that your family can endure. Don’t go at it alone without first consulting with a smart, local attorney who is familiar with dogs and children’s injuries. If you’re looking for an animal attack lawyer, contact us today for a free consultation and case evaluation.
Want to learn more about dog bites? Pit bull accidents is a topic we hear about often, along with dogs that bite UPS drivers.
