Injuries From a Dog Bite
Each year, millions of Americans are injured by dogs. Indeed, dogs have the potential to cause very serious harm if the proper safety precautions are not taken. At DiLoreto, Cosentino & Bolinger P.C., we handle all types of injuries that result from dog bites. Here, our Chambersburg personal injury lawyer discusses the most common injuries caused by dog bites in Pennsylvania.
An Overview of the Most Common Dog Bite Injuries
Scrapes and Bruising
Sometimes, but not always, surface-level injuries, scrapes, and bruising may result from a dog’s teeth or claws grazing the skin. While they can be minor, they may cause discomfort, swelling, or discoloration. Proper cleaning and monitoring are important to prevent infection.
Puncture Wounds
Sharp canine teeth can leave deep puncture wounds, even without extensive tearing. These injuries may not bleed heavily but pose a higher risk of infection due to bacteria introduced beneath the skin. Medical attention is a must to ensure that there is no serious infection. It is a big risk.
Lacerations and Tearing
More forceful bites can rip through skin, muscle, or tissue. These wounds may require stitches or surgery, depending on the location and depth. Scarring and longer recovery times are common with lacerations. In the worst cases, permanent scarring is possible.
Nerve Damage
If a dog bite affects nerves beneath the skin, it can lead to pain, numbness, or impaired movement. It is a type of injury that may be temporary or permanent and often requires evaluation by a specialist. Unfortunately, nerve damage can leave a person with long-term impairment.
Broken Bones
Severe attacks, especially those involving larger dogs or vulnerable body parts like hands or arms, can fracture or crush bones. These injuries typically require immobilization and/or surgery. They may lead to lasting physical limitations.
Fatal Injuries
Though rare, fatal dog attacks do happen. Most often, the victims are infants, toddlers, or elderly people. Injuries may include massive blood loss, crushed vital structures, or multiple organ damage. These tragic outcomes are terrible. They can lead to a civil wrongful death claim by the family.
Pennsylvania Dog Bite Statute of Limitations: Two Years
Dog bite injury claims are time-sensitive legal cases. Under Pennsylvania law (42 Pa. Consol. Stat. § 5524(2)), there is a two-year statute of limitations. In other words, you have two years from the date of an attack by a dangerous dog to take civil legal action. Do not miss out on your chance to get justice and financial compensation–consult with a top Pennsylvania dog bite lawyer right away.
Speak to Our Pennsylvania Dog Bite Lawyer Today
At DiLoreto, Cosentino & Bolinger P.C., our Pennsylvania dog bite lawyers fight tirelessly to protect the rights of victims. If you or your loved one was seriously injured by a dog, please do not hesitate to contact us today for a free case review. With offices in Chambersburg and Gettysburg, our law firm represents dog bite victims throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.