Bitten by a Dog in New Jersey or Pennsylvania? Here’s What You Should Know
Request a Free ConsultationA dog bite can turn a regular day upside down. One minute you’re out for a walk, visiting a friend, or just minding your own business – and the next, you’re dealing with pain, confusion, and a lot of questions.
At Grungo Law, we’ve helped many people in New Jersey and Pennsylvania navigate the aftermath of dog bite injuries. We understand how overwhelming it can be. That’s why we’re breaking down exactly what steps to take, what your rights are, and how we can help you move forward.
What to Do Right After a Dog Bite
If you or someone you care about has been bitten, your first priority should always be safety and medical care. But there are also a few key steps that can protect your health and any potential claim down the line:
- Get Medical Attention Immediately – Even if the bite doesn’t look serious, see a doctor. Dog bites carry a risk of infection, and having medical documentation is essential if you decide to pursue a claim.
- Take Photos and Notes – Snap pictures of the injury, the location, any torn clothing, and, if possible, the dog itself. Write down everything you remember – where it happened, what time, and any witnesses.
- Report the Incident – Call local animal control or your police department to file a report. This helps create an official record and may also reveal whether the dog has a history of aggression.
- Be Cautious Talking to Insurance Companies – You may be contacted by the dog owner’s insurance. Before giving a statement or accepting any settlement, talk to an attorney who has your best interests in mind.
Reach out to our Cherry Hill dog bite lawyers at Grungo Law for more help and information on dog bite injuries and claims.
Your Legal Rights as a Dog Bite Victim
New Jersey and Pennsylvania have different laws when it comes to dog bites, but both offer strong protections for victims.
- In New Jersey, the law is very clear: if a dog bites you in a public place or while you’re legally on private property, the owner is typically responsible – even if the dog has never acted aggressively before.
- In Pennsylvania, the law is a bit more complex. If you were seriously injured or needed medical treatment, you may be entitled to compensation. But proving negligence – such as a failure to leash or control the dog – may be required in some situations.
Either way, these cases are rarely cut-and-dried. That’s why it’s so important to speak with someone who understands the legal nuances in your state.
Dog Bites Can Cause Serious Injuries
We’ve seen firsthand how damaging dog bites can be – physically, emotionally, and financially. Common injuries include:
- Deep puncture wounds
- Scarring or disfigurement
- Nerve and tissue damage
- Infections (like MRSA or rabies)
- Emotional trauma, especially in children
In more severe cases, victims may need surgery or long-term care. These aren’t just surface wounds – they can affect your quality of life in lasting ways. That’s why documenting your injuries and seeking legal guidance early on matters so much.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
You shouldn’t have to handle this alone. Our team of South Jersey personal injury attorneys at Grungo Law is here to walk you through the process, answer your questions, and make sure your voice is heard. We’ll:
- Investigate what happened
- Gather the evidence needed to build your case
- Deal with insurance companies so you don’t have to
- Help you understand what your case may truly be worth
Our job is to take the weight off your shoulders, so you can focus on healing while we handle the legal side of things.
Don’t Wait – There Are Legal Deadlines
In both New Jersey and Pennsylvania, you generally have two years from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury lawsuit. That may sound like plenty of time, but these cases are stronger when evidence is fresh and medical records are recent. The sooner you talk to us, the better positioned we are to help.
Let’s Talk – Free, Confidential Consultations
If you’ve been injured by a dog in New Jersey or Pennsylvania, we’re here to listen. At Grungo Law, we treat every client like a person – not a case file. We know how to fight for your rights, and we care about helping you get the outcome you deserve.
Reach out today for a free consultation.