The next step after obtaining medical care for your dog bite is to report the dog bite to the authorities here in Pennsylvania. Filing a report allows you to document the attack while building a foundation of evidence for your future dog bite settlement case. It also ensures that local officials can help monitor the dog and take any necessary corrective measures to help minimize potential harm to others in the area. This post will explain how to report a dog bite in Pennsylvania.
The Process for Filing a Pennsylvania Dog Bite Report
Call the Department of Public Health at (215) 685-6748
When you call to file the dog bite report, the public health team will ask for specific information about your bite incident and the dog that attacked you. They will ask you for the following:
- A description of the dog that attacked you
- The name and address of the owner of the dog if you have it
- A description of the attack
- Whether the dog is known to other residents to your knowledge
- The behavior of the animal before and after the attack
The Department of Public Health will be able to track the animal’s rabies status and follow up with you for further treatment if required.
Report Dangerous Dogs to Your Local Dog Warden
Pennsylvania dog wardens are vital in enforcing dog laws, including rabies regulations and dog licensing. They can also regulate quarantine for potentially dangerous dogs and place dogs on the dangerous dogs’ registry.
When you report a dangerous dog to your local dog warden, you begin a series of steps that involve investigating the animal and its owner. You’ll also play a role in preventing a dangerous animal from harming others.
You can use this link to learn more about Pennsylvania dog wardens and their role. You can then find your local dog warden if you have a dangerous dog to report.
The Role of the Dog Bite Report in Your Future Dog Bite Injury Settlement
Your dog bite report will be the foundation of a future dog bite case. The details within the initial report and the follow-up with the authorities are often crucial factors in persuading insurance companies to raise the value of a dog bite claim.
While your medical care providers are legally obligated to report dog bite injuries to the authorities, showing initiative and reaching out to the authorities can also provide you with a semblance of control over the next phase in settlement recovery.
FAQs on Dog Bite Reporting in Pennsylvania
What happens if a dog is reported numerous times for attacks?
If a dog has bitten someone before and the dog warden receives a report the dog is involved in another attack, the owner could face fines and restrictions on where they can walk the animal and, in cases involving multiple attacks, could face criminal charges.
How should I report my dog bite injuries to the insurance company?
If you are the victim of a dog attack, you should first speak with a dog bite lawyer before communicating with the insurance company. The insurance firm’s role is to prevent a significant payout on your claim.
Speaking with a dog bite lawyer can help you prepare the evidence and protect your legal rights. You may then wish to hire the dog bite lawyer to represent you in discussions with the insurance company, as they can negotiate the claim based on case law in Pennsylvania.
How soon after the attack should I report my dog bite?
Report the dog bite as soon as you’ve undergone necessary medical care. If you wish to avoid potential trauma from reliving the attack, you can have a loved one or your dog bite lawyer report the dog bite on your behalf.
Call The PA Dog Bite Lawyer Jeffrey Penneys for 30 Years of Dog Bite Case Success
Jeffrey Penneys is the leading Pennsylvania dog bite lawyer, providing dog bite victims and their families with comprehensive legal guidance based on over three decades of experience serving communities across the state from his Philadelphia offices. Jeffrey Penneys and his team offer 24/7 services and a no-win, no-fee dog bite law service. Book your free consultation today at (215) 259-3703 to learn more about the potential value of your claim.