Dog Bite & Animal Bite Injury Lawyers in Lancaster, PA
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WHY INJURED DOG BITE VICTIMS TURN TO GLS INJURY LAW
At GLS Injury Law, we handle serious injury cases across Central Pennsylvania with a focus on clear guidance and strong advocacy. Dog bite cases require fast action, careful investigation, and the willingness to push back against insurance tactics.
Here is why families choose our firm after a dog or animal attack:
Million Dollar Recoveries For Our Injured Neighbors
$120,000,000
Recovered for Injury Victims
HOW OUR TOP NOTCH LAWYERS CAN HELP WITH ANIMAL & DOG BITE CASES
Your claim deserves careful handling from day one. The legal team works to reduce your stress while building a clear, well-documented case.
Investigation and evidence collection
Animal control reports, police reports, witness statements, photos, video, and prior complaint history.
Liability review
Identifying the dog’s owner and any other responsible parties, including landlords, property managers, or businesses when applicable.
Insurance claim management
Handling adjuster calls, paperwork, and deadlines so you are not pressured into a quick payout
Medical documentation support
Using records and expert opinions to prove the full impact of bites, infection treatment, scarring, and future care
Damage calculation
Medical bills, lost wages, future treatment, counseling, and the lasting personal impact of the attack
Negotiation and litigation
Strong settlement demands and lawsuits when insurers refuse to deal fairly
While you focus on healing, the case is moved forward with detailed attention, clear communication, and a strategy built around your long-term needs.
ANIMAL OR DOG BITE INJURIES & LONG-TERM IMPACT
- Serious animal and dog bite injuries can cause permanent physical damage and long-term emotional distress, not just short-term pain.
- Medical documentation matters because complications can develop later, including infection, nerve damage, and mobility limitations.
- Our animal and dog bite attorneys work with medical providers and specialists to record every consequence so your claim reflects both current and future needs.
- Common physical injuries include puncture wounds that damage deep tissue, severe lacerations, infections (including rabies or tetanus risks), nerve damage, fractures, and permanent scarring or disfigurement.
- Attacks to the head and face may involve eye injuries and lasting cosmetic harm.
- Common emotional impacts include PTSD symptoms, fear of dogs, anxiety or depression, embarrassment about visible scars, and social withdrawal.
- Children often experience long-lasting behavioral changes and heightened fear after an attack.
- Compensation should account for treatment, rehab, lost income, pain and suffering, and reduced quality of life.
HOW PENNSYLVANIA LAW PROTECTS ANIMAL OR DOG BITE VICTIMS
- Pennsylvania law can hold dog owners responsible when a dog injures someone, especially when the dog was not properly controlled, or the owner knew the animal was dangerous.
- In severe injury cases, strict liability may apply, meaning you may not need to prove negligence, only that the dog caused serious harm.
- Strict liability factors commonly include an unprovoked attack, a known history of aggression or prior attacks, and failure to confine or control the dog at the time of the incident.
- In other cases, a negligence-based claim may apply, requiring proof that the owner failed to act reasonably to prevent harm.
- Negligence may involve failure to restrain the dog, violating local leash rules, ignoring known dangerous tendencies, failing to warn, or creating unsafe conditions in residential areas.
- Recoverable damages can include medical bills, future care (such as reconstructive treatment), lost wages, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, scarring and disfigurement, and loss of quality of life.
- A dog bite lawyer helps preserve evidence, prove fault, and document damages to pursue maximum recovery.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO BEFORE CONTACTING THE BEST DOG BITE LAWYER?
If you are able, focus on health and documentation first. This protects your medical recovery and your legal position.
Short checklist:
GET MAXIMUM COMPENSATION FOR YOUR ANIMAL & DOG BITE CLAIM
Investigate, build, and litigate your case to victory
Don’t Settle for Less…Call GLS!™
We can be reached through our website or by phone at 717-394-3004.
Free, No-Obligation Consultation
We’ll explain everything, answer your questions, and come to you if needed.
Focus on Your Recovery
GLS Injury Law fights for your full compensation so you can relax. Your peace of mind is our priority.
AVAILABLE 24/7
WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU WORK WITH a top rated dog bite lawyer
From the first consultation, the goal is to make the process clear and manageable while pushing for a result that reflects the real impact of the attack.
Here is what you can expect:
Meet Your Award-Winning PERSONAL INJURY LAWYERS SERVING CENTRAL PA
Experienced accident lawyers helping Central PA injury victims pursue maximum compensation.
Anthony M. Georgelis
Represents injured workers and personal injury victims across Pennsylvania with skilled, results-driven legal advocacy.
Christopher P. Larsen
Guides Pennsylvania auto accident, slip and fall, and dog bite clients through claims, IMEs, and legal challenges with care.
Thomas J. Sabatino
Advocates for car accident and workers’ compensation clients in Pennsylvania, through every stage of claims and appeals.
As Recognized By:
What People Are Saying About Our Nationally Recognized Injury fIRM
Proven Results. Hundreds of 5-Star Reviews
GLS Clients Who Didn’t Settle For Less
Proven Results. Hundreds of 5-Star Reviews
A construction worker was killed when the walls of a building collapsed during an active project in Franklin County. GLS investigated workplace conditions, pursued third-party liability, and secured a substantial recovery for the surviving family.
— GLS WON —
$15,000,000
Fatal Construction Site Work Accident Claim
A child tragically drowned at a Lancaster hotel pool. GLS investigated premises safety and supervision practices and secured a significant wrongful death recovery for the family.
— GLS WON —
$1,600,000
Wrongful Death Claim
A client suffered serious injuries after being attacked by a dog while unloading groceries outside their home. GLS responded immediately, visiting the client in the hospital and launching a thorough investigation. Through aggressive advocacy, the firm held the owner accountable and secured a significant recovery.
— GLS WON —
$1,200,000
Dog Bite Claim
A pedestrian suffered severe internal and external injuries after being struck by a garbage truck while crossing the roadway. GLS pursued claims against both the driver and company, uncovering safety failures and securing a substantial settlement.
— GLS WON —
$1,450,000
Pedestrian Accident Claim
A tractor trailer driver was severely injured when a trash truck struck him head-on while he was performing job duties in Lancaster County. GLS established liability against the commercial operator and secured compensation for extensive injuries.
— GLS WON —
$1,675,000
Work-Related Truck Accident Claim
A forklift operator sustained multiple fractures and crush injuries after being struck by another forklift operated by a third-party contractor. GLS pursued both workers’ compensation and third-party claims to maximize recovery.
— GLS WON —
$1,658,000
Work-Related Tow Motor Accident Claim
A factory worker suffered a partial foot amputation in a workplace accident. GLS identified a responsible third party in addition to workers’ compensation and recovered compensation for pain, suffering, and other non-economic damages.
— GLS WON —
$1,750,000
Work Injury and Third-Party Claims
A motorcyclist suffered serious internal injuries requiring multiple surgeries after an SUV made an unlawful turn in front of the motorcycle. GLS proved fault and secured compensation reflecting the severity of medical treatment.
— GLS WON —
$1,490,000
Motorcycle Accident Claim
A husband and father was killed when a commercial truck ran a red light and collided with his vehicle. GLS reconstructed the crash, established fault, and obtained a multi-million-dollar recovery for his family.
— GLS WON —
$4,000,000
Tractor Trailer Accident Claim
A woman was struck by a vehicle while lawfully using a crosswalk and suffered serious injuries. GLS persuaded the insurer to tender full policy limits, addressing both immediate losses and future impact.
— GLS WON —
$1,000,000
Pedestrian Motor Vehicle Accident
HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU NEED A DOG BITE ATTORNEY?
You may need a lawyer if injuries are serious, liability is disputed, or insurance companies are not treating you fairly.
Top 6 signs you should speak with an attorney:
Serious or lasting injuries
ER care, stitches, surgery, hospitalization, or permanent scarring.
Infection or complication
Swelling, fever, worsening pain, or other signs that increase cost and risk.
Known aggressive dog
Prior bites, snapping, lunging, or repeated complaints.
Denial or blame-shifting
The owner claims you provoked the dog or refuses to cooperate.
Low or delayed insurance offers
Quick low offers, unnecessary requests, or stalling tactics.
Unclear legal issues
Questions about strict liability, negligence, trespassing claims, or multiple responsible parties.
If any of these fit your situation, a consultation can help you understand your options and next steps.
WHY SHOULD YOU HIRE A DOG BITE & ANIMAL ATTACK LAWYER?
Dog bite cases often look “simple” until insurers start disputing fault, minimizing injuries, or blaming the victim. A lawyer protects you by building a case that is hard to ignore.
Immediate Action Checklist
Get Medical Attention
See a doctor immediately, even for minor symptoms, to create an official medical record linking your injuries to the crash.
Gather Key Evidence
Collect the Police Report number, take photos/videos of the scene and damage, and get witness and driver information.
Silence is Golden
Do NOT give any recorded statements or sign releases for insurance companies until you've spoken with a lawyer.
Organize Documents
Start a folder for all medical bills, lost wage statements, and written notes on how the accident happened
How Long Do Dog and Animal Bite Cases Usually Take?
There is no fixed timeline for an animal or dog bite case. Some claims with clear liability, thorough medical documentation, and cooperative insurers may be resolved within several months. More complex cases, including those involving severe scarring, disputed facts, or the need for extended treatment, can take a year or longer, especially if a lawsuit is filed.
Your dog bite attorney will discuss realistic expectations, including the need to understand your long-term medical outlook before finalizing any settlement.
How Is Compensation Calculated in A Dog Bite Case?
Compensation in a dog bite claim is based on the specific harm you have suffered. This can include medical bills, lost wages, future treatment costs, plastic surgery, therapy, and everyday expenses tied to your injuries. It also includes non-economic damages, such as pain, emotional trauma, fear of animals, and reduced enjoyment of life.
A skilled dog bite compensation lawyer looks at both your immediate and future needs, working to secure an amount that reflects the full impact of the attack.
Do Dog Bite Cases Go to Court?
Many dog bite claims settle through insurance negotiations. However, cases may go to court when the owner denies liability, the insurer refuses to pay fairly, or the damages are significant. If a trial becomes necessary, the case is prepared with evidence, medical support, and a clear damages strategy.
Dog & Animal Bite FAQS FOR CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA
Get clear answers about dog & animal bite cases.
Reviewed by Anthony M. Georgelis, Attorney at GLS Injury Law, on May 20th 2025.
Dog & Animal Bite Case FAQs
What should I do immediately after a dog bite incident?
The moments after a dog bite can be confusing, painful, and traumatic. The most important steps to take include:
- Seek medical attention right away. Even minor-looking wounds can become infected or lead to more serious complications. Medical records will also play a crucial role in documenting your injuries.
- Identify the dog and its owner. Get the owner’s contact information and try to determine if the dog is up to date on its rabies vaccinations.
- Report the incident to your local animal control or the police. In Pennsylvania, this often involves contacting the Dog Warden or local law enforcement, both of whom we regularly work with.
- Photograph your injuries and the location where the incident took place. If there were witnesses, collect their statements and contact information.
Once you’ve addressed the immediate medical concerns, call our law firm right away. We’ll begin gathering evidence, notifying the appropriate parties, and building your claim. Time is of the essence- prompt legal action can make the difference between a successful recovery and a drawn-out, uphill battle.
Who is liable for a dog bite in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, the dog’s owner is typically held liable for injuries caused by their pet. The law holds owners responsible for controlling their animals and preventing them from causing harm. Pennsylvania’s “strict liability” statute means that an owner can be responsible for medical costs even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.
However, liability for other damages, such as pain and suffering or lost wages, may depend on whether the dog had known aggressive tendencies or whether the owner was negligent (e.g., allowing the dog to roam off-leash, failing to post warning signs, etc.).
Our firm’s deep knowledge of local ordinances and state dog laws allows us to pinpoint negligence and prove liability, especially when dealing with complicated circumstances like shared property lines, rented properties, or commercial premises. We will also investigate whether homeowner’s, renter’s, or commercial insurance policies apply so you can collect damages from the appropriate sources.
Can I still file a claim if the dog owner is a friend, neighbor, or family member?
Yes, and this is a common concern. Many dog bite victims are injured by dogs owned by people they know- neighbors, relatives, or friends. You may feel conflicted about pursuing legal action, but it’s important to remember that you are not suing them personally. Instead, the claim is typically filed against their homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy.
These policies are designed to cover personal liability incidents like dog bites. The reality is that your medical bills, lost income, and emotional trauma are very real and deserve compensation. Filing a claim helps you recover what you need without directly impacting the dog owner financially- especially if the injury was due to neglect or lack of proper animal control.
Our firm handles these delicate situations with compassion and discretion, ensuring the process remains civil and respectful while securing the compensation you are entitled to under the law.
What types of compensation can I recover for a dog bite injury?
Victims of dog bites may be entitled to several types of damages, including:
- Medical expenses (past, current, and future)
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma, including PTSD, anxiety, or phobias
- Scarring and disfigurement, especially if visible or permanent
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
In cases involving children or the elderly, long-term care and counseling may be necessary, and those costs can add up. At GLS Injury Law, we work with medical professionals, vocational experts, and economists to accurately value your claim. Our goal is always to secure a settlement or verdict that reflects the full impact the injury has had- and will continue to have- on your life.
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including dog bites, is two years from the date of the incident. That means you must file your lawsuit within two years, or you may lose the right to recover any compensation.
However, it’s strongly recommended that you do not wait to take action. Evidence such as witness statements, photos, surveillance footage, and medical documentation can become harder to obtain over time. The sooner our legal team gets involved, the stronger your case will be.
Some exceptions may extend or toll the statute, particularly in cases involving minors. If a child is bitten by a dog, the two-year period typically begins when the child turns 18. Still unsure? Give us a call. We offer free consultations, and we’ll walk you through your options with no pressure and no upfront costs.
What if the dog has never bitten anyone before? Can I still pursue a claim?
Absolutely. In Pennsylvania, a “one bite” rule does not apply the way it does in some other states. A dog owner may still be liable for your injuries, even if the dog has never shown aggression or bitten before. If the dog caused harm without provocation, and the owner failed to restrain or control the animal properly, you may have grounds for a negligence claim.
In many cases, even if the owner insists that the dog was “friendly,” their failure to secure the dog on a leash, behind a fence, or in a safe space can establish liability. Additionally, state and local laws require owners to take reasonable steps to prevent attacks. If they failed to comply, we would use those legal violations to bolster your claim.
At GLS Injury Law, we leave no stone unturned in investigating the dog’s behavior history, prior complaints, and whether local ordinances were violated.
Can I file a claim if my child was bitten by a dog?
Yes, and these are some of the most serious and heart-wrenching cases we handle. Children are especially vulnerable to dog attacks due to their size, lack of awareness of danger signs, and natural curiosity. Injuries in these cases are often severe, both physically and emotionally.
If your child has been bitten or attacked by a dog, you can file a claim on their behalf as a parent or legal guardian. Compensation can include not only medical expenses and emotional trauma, but also damages for long-term care, therapy, and permanent scarring or disfigurement.
In addition, Pennsylvania law allows extended time for minors to file injury claims, usually beginning when the child turns 18. However, it’s still best to consult an attorney right away, as early legal intervention can preserve key evidence and help secure prompt compensation.
We are sensitive to the trauma that both you and your child may be experiencing, and we promise to handle your case with the care, urgency, and attention to detail it deserves.
Will I have to go to court to resolve my dog bite claim?
Not necessarily. In fact, most dog bite cases settle outside of court. Our firm has a strong reputation with local insurance adjusters and opposing counsel, which often leads to fair settlements without the need for a trial.
That said, we always prepare every case as though it will go to court. This meticulous preparation puts us in the strongest position to negotiate from a place of power. If a fair settlement isn’t offered, we won’t hesitate to file a lawsuit and take your case to trial. You deserve full compensation, not a lowball offer from the insurance company.
You’ll be involved in every major decision, and we’ll guide you every step of the way. Our priority is making the legal process as stress-free and transparent as possible, while getting the results you need to move forward.
What if I were partially at fault for the dog bite?
Even if you were partially responsible for the incident- perhaps by unknowingly provoking the dog or entering a property without permission- you may still be able to recover compensation under Pennsylvania’s comparative negligence rules.
This law allows injured victims to recover damages as long as they are less than 51% at fault. However, your compensation may be reduced proportionally to your share of the fault. For instance, if you’re found to be 20% responsible, your total recovery would be reduced by that amount.
Our attorneys are experienced in minimizing your percentage of fault by carefully investigating the circumstances and building a strong case supported by evidence. We don’t let insurance companies unfairly blame victims to avoid paying rightful claims.
How much does it cost to hire GLS Injury Law for my dog bite case?
Hiring us costs you nothing up front. We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay us only if we win your case. If we don’t recover compensation for you, you owe us nothing.
During your free consultation, we’ll walk you through how our fee structure works and answer all of your questions. There are no hidden fees, no hourly rates, and no retainers. Our interests are aligned with yours- we are fully invested in getting you the best possible outcome.
With decades of combined experience, a deep understanding of Pennsylvania dog bite laws, and a reputation as Lancaster’s #1 injury law firm, you can feel confident placing your case in our hands. Let us take on the legal burden while you focus on healing.
How long do I have to file an animal or dog bite claim in Pennsylvania?
Victims typically have two years from the attack date to file a dog bite lawsuit. Delaying action weakens your case as witness memory fades and evidence disappears. Contacting GLS Injury Law early ensures vital documentation and medical records are preserved.
How much is my animal or dog bite settlement worth?
Each dog bite settlement depends on injury severity, medical bills, future treatment needs, lost wages, scarring, and emotional distress. Our experienced dog bite attorneys carefully evaluate every detail to ensure you receive maximum compensation for your suffering and long-term recovery.
Who can be held responsible for a dog bite or animal attack?
In most cases, the dog’s owner bears primary responsibility. Property managers and landlords can also be liable if they knew about the dangerous dog and failed to take action. GLS Injury Law investigates every angle to establish clear liability and pursue all responsible parties.
Should I hire a lawyer if the animal or dog bite seems minor?
Yes. Even seemingly minor dog bite injuries can lead to infections, nerve damage, or psychological trauma later. Insurance companies routinely minimize such claims. Hiring an experienced dog bite lawyer ensures your rights are protected and you’re not pressured into accepting unfair settlements.
How long does an animal or dog bite lawsuit usually take?
Timelines vary based on case complexity, liability disputes, and injury severity. Some cases resolve through negotiation in months; others require litigation and take longer. GLS Injury Law moves efficiently to secure the best outcome without unnecessary delays.
What evidence helps build a strong dog or animal bite claim?
Key evidence includes photos of injuries and the scene, witness statements, animal control and police reports, medical documentation, proof of ownership, and records of prior incidents or complaints. Our legal team works quickly to collect and preserve this evidence from day one.
How much does it cost to hire GLS Injury Law for my case?
You pay no upfront fees and nothing unless we win. GLS Injury Law works on a contingency-fee basis; our payment comes only from your successful settlement or verdict. Your first consultation is completely free and confidential.
Can I sue if I was on the owner's property when bitten?
Yes, in most cases. Property owners have a duty to warn visitors about dangerous dogs. However, if you were trespassing or provoking the dog, your claim may be affected. Our attorneys analyze the specific circumstances to determine your rights.
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