A Stroudsburg dog bite attorney at Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys helps victims recover compensation after serious animal attacks. Dog bites can cause lasting physical injuries, emotional trauma, and high medical costs, especially for children. When someone else’s negligence causes injuries, victims deserve experienced legal guidance and strong advocacy.
For almost 70 years, Munley Law has represented injury victims across northeastern Pennsylvania. Our nationally recognized trial attorneys thoroughly investigate every dog bite claim, identify negligent pet owners, and pursue compensation through insurance negotiations or litigation when necessary. We examine medical costs, lost income, long-term care needs, and the emotional toll these injuries can cause.
If you or a loved one suffered injury from a dog attack in Stroudsburg, our dog attack attorneys are ready to evaluate your case and explain your legal options. With contingency fee representation, you pay nothing unless we win compensation on your behalf.
Call Us At 844-686-5397 How Can a Stroudsburg Dog Bite Attorney Help After an Attack?
After a dog attack, victims often face serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and uncertainty about their legal rights. A skilled dog bite attorney investigates the incident, determines liability, and handles negotiations with insurers or property owners responsible for the attack.
At Munley Law, we begin by gathering evidence, including witness statements, animal control records, medical documentation, and photographs of injuries. We determine whether the dog owner, landlord, or another party may be liable for failing to control the animal.
Once we establish negligence, we’ll calculate the full value of your claim, including past and future medical treatment, lost wages, and non-economic damages. Our attorneys negotiate aggressively with insurers and are fully prepared to take the case to trial if a fair settlement is not offered.
How Common Are Dog Bites in the United States?
Dog bites are more common than you may think. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, more than 4.5 million people nationwide are bitten by a dog each year. Of those 4.5 million people, 800,000 receive medical attention.
Children are particularly vulnerable to dog bites. Data shows that children below 12 years old experience the highest rate of dog bite injuries, while elders over 70 years make up 10% of those injured.
You may assume that large dogs are more likely to bite, but some small dogs are just as likely to be biters. There are two factors to keep in mind. Breeds that are most likely to bite and breeds that are most likely to cause serious damage if bitten. Dog bite incidents can lead to:
- Deep puncture wounds
- Severe infections, such as Capnocytophaga or rabies exposure
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
- Emotional trauma and post-traumatic stress
Because these injuries may require long-term treatment, seeking prompt medical attention and legal guidance is critical.
“Munley Law is far more than just a law firm. We’re a family of attorneys who truly understand the meaning of family and bring deep compassion to every client we serve.”
J. Christopher Munley
What Compensation Can Dog Bite Victims Recover in Pennsylvania?
Dog bite injuries can create financial and emotional burdens for victims and their families. You can recover the past and present medical expenses associated with the attack from the owners irregardless of negligence. However Pennsylvania law allows dog bite victims to pursue further compensation when the owner’s negligence caused the attack, examples of such compensation may include:
- Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity: If you are unable to work because of the attack, you can seek compensation for lost wages. If a loved one is attacked and you must miss work to care for them, you can recover lost wages. There may also be some indirect job losses that are recoverable. Did being out of work cause you to miss out on a promotion, sales commissions, or bonuses?
- Pain and Suffering: Dog bites can be traumatic, and you may be compensated for your physical pain and suffering.
When Can You Sue a Dog Owner in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania?
Examples of negligence may include:
- Allowing the dog to roam without a leash or restraint
- Failing to secure the dog in a yard or enclosed space
- Ignoring prior aggressive behavior or previous bites
- Violating local leash laws or safety ordinances
Do not delay. Stroudsburg is bound by Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations laws. You have two years from the time the incident or fatality took place to file a claim.
What Steps Can Help Prevent Dog Bite Injuries?
The Centers for Disease Control say dog bites are largely preventable. Here are some expert tips for preventing dog bites.
- Do your homework before you get a dog. Recognize the conditions you will bring the dog into. Do you have children? Do you have a fenced-in/secured area for the dog? Will you be able to walk the dog yourself, or will you need to hire someone? Answers to questions like these will help identify what breed of dog is best suited to your unique circumstances. Consult experts like veterinarians, trainers, breeders, rescue groups, and dog shelters to help you make a decision.
- Before purchasing or adopting a dog, spend some time with it and get to know its nature a bit. Does it seem to be a good fit for you and your family? Is it high-strung/demanding? Is it friendly to people?
- Once you have a dog, do not leave it alone with children and infants. Make sure a responsible adult stays with the dog. Research “leash laws” for your area so you know what to do with your dog when it is outdoors. Hire a trainer and train your dog to follow your commands. Ensure your children know how to behave around a dog.
- If your dog shows any type of aggressive behavior, immediately consult an expert.
- If you see a dog, don’t automatically pet it – always ask the owner first, and use caution.
Following suggestions like these can help keep you safe. But remember, dog bites are common.
Why Choose Munley Law for a Dog Bite Case in Stroudsburg?
Munley Law has built a national reputation for excellence in personal injury litigation. Founded in 1959, our family-owned firm has served Pennsylvania communities for almost seven decades.
Our attorneys have received numerous professional recognitions, including:
- Leadership positions in the American Association for Justice, where Marion Munley currently serves as the Vice President.
- Membership in The Summit Council
- Membership in the American Board of Trial Advocates
- Fellowship and Senior Fellowship with the Litigation Counsel of America
- Membership in the Pennsylvania Bar Association
To date, Munley Law has secured over $1 billion in verdicts and settlements for injury victims across Pennsylvania. When clients choose Munley Law, they gain access to experienced trial lawyers with the resources to challenge insurance companies and large defendants.
We also work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront costs and no attorney’s fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Claims in Stroudsburg
What Should I Do Immediately After a Dog Bite?
Seek medical attention right away, even if the wound appears minor. Dog bites can lead to infections or complications that may not be immediately visible. Report the incident to local animal control or law enforcement and document the scene with photos if possible. Contacting an attorney early can help preserve evidence and protect your legal rights.
Can I File a Claim if the Dog Has Never Bitten Anyone Before?
Yes. Even if the dog has no record of aggression, the owner may still be responsible if they failed to properly control the animal. Liability often depends on negligence, such as violating leash laws or failing to secure a dog.
Are Dog Bite Cases Usually Covered by Insurance?
Many dog bite claims are covered by homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policies. These policies often provide liability coverage for injuries caused by pets. However, insurers may try to limit payouts, which is why legal representation is important.
What if the Dog Bite Occurred on the Owner’s Property?
Victims may still have a valid claim even if the attack happened on the dog owner’s property. Property owners still have a duty to keep visitors reasonably safe and control dangerous animals.
Does Pennsylvania Have a One Bite Rule?
Pennsylvania does not have a ‘one bite rule’. This was more or less abolished after Commonwealth v. Hake (1999) and now an owner can be held criminally liable for unprovoked attacks, even if it is the first time the dog has bitten someone.
Can Parents File a Claim if Their Child Is Bitten by a Dog?
Yes. Parents or legal guardians can pursue compensation on behalf of a minor injured in a dog attack. Children are particularly vulnerable to severe injuries and emotional trauma from dog bites.
Contact a Stroudsburg Dog Bite Lawyer at Munley Law
If you are attacked by a dog and have concerns about your health and well-being, contact Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys for a free review of your case. One of our experienced dog bite attorneys will help you understand your rights and identify the best path forward. Do not delay.
Call, chat, or fill in our online form to get started.
J. Christopher Munley
James Christopher Munley is an award-winning plaintiffs’ lawyer who has dedicated his career to fighting for accident victims and their families. As a board-certified civil trial advocate, Chris was named Lawyer of the Year by Best Lawyers for Workers’ Compensation by Best Lawyers, and has been listed on Pennsylvania Super Lawyers since 2013.
