Philadelphia Personal Injury Lawyer Blog

Hey Pennsylvanians, have your pets spayed or neutered! We have all heard Bob Barker tell us this at the end of The Price Is Right. Besides the obvious that we have too many dogs euthanized each year and need to control the dog population, the neutering of male dogs dramatically lessens the risk of a dog bite attack because neutering reduces aggression. Studies show that dog bite attacks in unneutered dogs are more than 2.6 times more likely to occur when compared to neutered dogs.

The problem of serious injuries resulting from dog bite attacks has led Chicago city lawmakers to introduce an ordinance which would mandate that every dog is neutered (except those used for breeding purposes). The ordinance says "No person shall own, harbor or keep within the City of Chicago, a dog or cat over six months of age which has not been sterilized." The rationale behind the proposal is that most dog bite attacks involve unneutered animals. Violators would be faced with fines as high as $100. Registered breeders would be exempt, but would pay annually for a "breeding permit" and would undergo criminal background checks.

Good idea? I think so. As a Philadelphia Dog Bite Lawyer, I have seen first hand the serious injuries dog bite attacks cause innocent victims. Whether such a law will ever be introduced in Pennsylvania, I don't know. But, I do think it makes sense if it will help cut down on the vicious dog attacks.

Posted by Michael Mednick | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Dog Bite

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As a Pennsylvania Dog Bite Lawyer, I track dog bite case law for new court interpretations. The Pennsylvania Superior Court in their opinion in Underwood v. Wind released on July 18, 2008, again addressed the ramifications of the 1996 amendments to Pennsylvania's Dog Law.

Prior to 1996, Pennsylvania allowed all dogs one prior bite before liability could be attached to the dog's owner. This law was commonly referred to as the "one bite rule". In 1996, the Pennsylvania Legislature rewrote the Dog Law Statutes. The changes did away with the need of a dog bite victim to prove that the dog had bitten before in order to show the dog's dangerous propensities. Pursuant to the amendments, the propensity to attack may be proven
by a single incident of the infliction of a severe injury clearly finding a ‘propensity’ to attack human beings by virtue of the attack in question, even if it is only the first attack.

A "severe injury" is "any physical injury that results in broken bones or disfiguring lacerations requiring multiple sutures or cosmetic surgery." A severely injured victim can make a Dog Law claim against the dog owner for medical expenses and all other losses and legal damages. The victim is required to prove that the dog inflicted severe injury without provocation regardless whether or not the dog had previously bitten a person.

If you or a loved one is the victim of a dog bite attack, contact Michael Mednick, a Philadelphia Dog Bite Lawyer. Many times homeowners insurance will provide insurance coverage for dog bite attacks. Some renters insurance will provide coverage as well. If there is no insurance and the dog owner is unable to compensate the dog bite victim, an experienced dog bite lawyer can consider whether another party may be responsible for the dog attack, such as a landlord who knows his tenant is harboring a dangerous dog.

Posted by Michael Mednick | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Dog Bite

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So, you are an exercise fanatic and enjoy jogging around the streets of Philadelphia in the spring, summer and fall. All is well until you encounter a dog that is watching you. While most dogs will leave you alone, a small percentage of dogs are will place you at risk for a dog bite attack.

Generally, dog biters fit within two categories; submissive types (fear biters) and dominant types (aggression biters). The submissive types will slow down or veer to one side when you approach them in an attempt to avoid a confrontation dominant types may approach you with their ears and tail standing up tall, showing off their confidence.

If you feel threatened by a dog while jogging, you should try to determine the type of dog that is threatening you and deal with these dogs in different manners. When dealing with a dominant type of dog, you should stop jogging or walking and avoid direct eye contact. Turn your body slightly away from the dog (i.e. avoid full frontal or rear views). Allow the dog to sniff you to establish that you are not a threat. Most dominant dogs will simply leave you alone.

If you feel threatened by a submissive dog, you should once again stop jogging or walking, but this time, face the dog straight on, even if the dog tries to circle around you. Slowly withdraw from the dog's "territory" so that it does not feel threatened.

It is important to remember to never run away, since running triggers the natural instinct in dogs to give chase. Also never stare at the dog or make direct eye contact, since this is perceived as a threat.

Should all else fail and you get attacked by a dog, it is important to try to identify the owner of the dog. This will enable you to get information regarding whether the dog is current on its shots. This could be the difference from having to undergo painful rabies injections or other treatment. You should also contact a Philadelphia Dog Bite Lawyer to obtain information on your rights under Pennsylvania Law.

Posted by Michael Mednick | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Dog Bite

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Dog Bite Awareness Day was July 31st. For United States Postal Carriers, this day is particularly important as they hope to educate the public about the dangers of their jobs, especially when it comes to dog bite attacks. Dog bite attacks were the No. 1 cause of mail carrier injuries this year with an average of 10 letter carriers suffering injuries every delivery day.

In Springfield, Oh, letter carriers held signs outside of the post office publicizing dog bites they received on their walking routes in order to raise awareness about the hazards of dog attacks and the importance of being a responsible pet owners. Carrier Paul Hodson detailed the day he was attacked by a Rottweiler. The Springfield News-Sun detailed the dog bite attack "I'll never forget it," he said. "I can still feel the dog bite, the smell of his breath." The dog bite attack was to Hodson's hand and leg. He spent three months in the hospital to recover from nerve damage, more than 100 stitches and an infection from the bite.

The number of dog bites to mail carriers is alarming but pales in comparison to the number of bites to children. Every 40 seconds someone enters an emergency room in the U.S. for a dog related injury. The rate of dog bite-related injuries is highest for children ages 5 to 9 years, and the rate decreases as children age. Almost two thirds of injuries among children ages four years and younger are to the head or neck region. The Humane Society of the United States reports that small children, the elderly, and Postal Service letter carriers - in that order - are the most frequent victims of dog bites. Recent statistics show the annual number of dog attacks exceeds the reported instances of measles, whooping cough, and mumps, combined. In addition, dog bite victims account for up to five percent of emergency room visits.

Responsible pet ownership is the first step in preventing dog bite attacks. Let's help the United States Postal Service spread the word. The American Veterinary Medical Association has lots of information on what we can do to help prevent dog bite attacks. Also, please feel free to read my prior blogs on the topic.

As a Philadelphia Dog Bite Lawyer, I represent individuals who are the victims of dog bite attacks. I will compassionately and aggressively fight to obtain compensation for victims.

Posted by Michael Mednick | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Dog Bite

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As a Philadelphia Dog Bite Lawyer I represent individuals involved in dog bite attacks. According to a recent study released by the Insurance Information Institute, dog bite claims accounted for one-third of all homeowners insurance liability claims paid in 2007. The average dog bite claim totaled more than $24,000 and, as a whole, cost the insurance industry more than $350 million.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 4.7 million people per year are victims of a dog bite attack, resulting in an estimated 800,000 injuries that require medical attention. With more than 50 percent of dog bite attacks occurring on the dog owner's property, the insurance industry is crying foul. While the cost of these claims to the insurance industry is astounding, what is equally astounding is the record profits these insurance companies continue to rake in year after year. The insurance industry is not who we should feel bad for. Rather we should feel compassion towards the victims of these dog bite attacks. Most of the dog bite attacks are unprovoked and many cause serious life long injuries or scarring.

As a Philadelphia Dog Bite Lawyer, I fight for every dollar of compensation a dog bite victim deserves. As a person who has been the victim of a dog bite attack in the past, I understand the effects of these attacks on my clients. I was fortunate enough not to have real serious injuries, however, many of my clients are not so lucky. If you or a loved one was the victim of a dog bite attack, contact me for a free consultation.

Posted by Michael Mednick | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Dog Bite , Insurance Claims , Legal News

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As a Philadelphia Dog Bite Lawyer, I encounter serious injuries inflicted by dog bite attacks. Many of the attacks happen to be on children who are often bitten in the face and neck. Pit Bulls are known to be one of the more dangerous dogs who maul its victims.

Last week there have been some more nationwide Pit Bull attacks. A three year old boy was mauled by a Pit Bull in New York and a 90 year old man was attacked by two Pit Bulls in New York. It is believed that many of the owners of these very dangerous dogs use the dogs as weapons.

I believe in specific breed leglislation which would help to eliminate some of the more dangerious attacks. For example, a law which requires all Pit Bulls to be muzzled when out in public. If the law was adherred to, at least this would cut down on some of the serious injuries.

If you or someone you love was attacked by a Pit Bull or other dangerous dog, contact the Philadelphia Dog Bite Law Firm for a free consultation.

Related Resources:

Dog Bite Prevention: What You Need to Know

Posted by Michael Mednick | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Dog Bite

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In our Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Dog Bite Law Firm, we have seen many dog bite cases, even some where the dog bites its master. However, we have never heard of a dog actually eating some of its master. Reported on NBC10, a Philadelphia man, 75 years old George Burhart, apparently died of natural causes. Burhart had an 8-month-old Labrador Retriever puppy who was left for several days, maybe weeks, in the home with his master and, probably in an effort of survival, ate some of the Burhart's remains.

The dog is now residing with Burhart's brother, Rudolph. No blame is being placed on the dog for the death of his master. Rudolph Burhart is looking for a family to adopt the dog.

Related Web Resources:

Dog Eats Master's Remains - Video Story NBC10

Posted by Michael Mednick | Permalink | Email This Post

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In our Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Personal Injury Law Firm we represent clients who are victims of dog bite attacks. The following are steps to take if you are a victim of a dog bite attack.

First, try to identify the dog. This is important so you can find out whether the dog is current in its shots. Otherwise, you could have to undergo painful rabies prevention treatment.

Second, get medical attention immediately. Go to the nearest Emergency Room. If you are bitten on the face, demand treatment by a plastic surgeon. Make sure you follow all of the doctors orders and take all of the medications given at the E.R.

Third, gather evidence of the dog bite attack. Take photographs of your wounds and any bloodied clothing. Get the names, addresses and phone numbers of witnesses.

Fourth, consult with a Pennsylvania dog bite lawyer as soon as possible. The earlier you consult with a personal injury lawyer who handles dog bite cases the better. The personal injury lawyer can gather evidence and facts while they fresh. The personal injury lawyer can assist you in making sure you get proper medical care. The personal injury lawyer can advise you on your legal rights with respect to a negligence claim against the dog owner and with respect to a pain and suffering damages claim.

Last, do not give any statements to the insurance company for the dog owner without speaking to a dog bite lawyer.

Statistics show nearly 2 percent of the United States population is the victim of a dog bite attack each year. Hopefully, you won't be one of the 2 percent. However, if you are, please contact us for a Free Consultation. We can help you like we have helped others who were victims of a dog attack.

Related Web Resources:

CDC Article: Dog Bites: How Big A Problem?

Posted by Michael Mednick | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Dog Bite

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In keeping with National Dog Bite Prevention Week (May 18 - May 24), we should consider how to help avoid dog bite attacks. Research has shown that dogs who spend a large portion of their lives on chains pose a higher risk of an attack on an unsuspecting child. These dogs often develop feelings of frustration and lack proper socialization which leads the dogs to take their aggression out on a person, often a child.

The problems as I see it are two-fold. First, chaining a dog for hours and days on end results in a danger to society. Second, as a dog owner, I find this to be cruel to the dog. In fact, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has declared chaining dogs "inhumane" and according to the CDC, chained dogs account for a large portion of serious and fatal attacks. It appears that the dangers even intensifies more when Spring arrives. The dogs who have been chained up become even more lonely after a winter only to see young, youthful children running free and playing. According to Mothers Against Dog Chaining, one third of chained dog attacks occur in April and May.

Let's remember that a dog is supposed to be man's best friend. We need to treat our dogs with love and care. I know I wouldn't want to be chained outside hours and days on end so I would only expect that my dog wouldn't like that either. Over the years, the Philadelphia Dog Bite Law Firm of Mednick, Mezyk & Kredo has compassionately and aggressively represented individuals attacked by animals. Please call for a free consultation should the need arise.

Related Web Resources:

News Release Wire: Group Warns of Attacks on Children by Chained Dogs

News: Chained Dog Attacks

Site: Mothers Against Dog Chaining

Blog: Chained Dog Limits

Posted by Michael Mednick | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Dog Bite

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Dog Bite Prevention Week is May 18th to May 24th. The purpose of Dog Bite Prevention Week is to educate the public in ways to cut down on the amount of dog attacks by mans best friend. As a dog owner myself, I fully understand why dogs are known as "mans best friend". But, even my own dog who has never shown any kind of aggression, is still an animal. And animals cannot be fully trusted. So, I am careful around my young children in certain circumstances.

The Philadelphia Dog Bite Law Firm of Mednick, Mezyk & Kredo, represents individuals who have been bitten and scarred by animal attacks. In honor of Dog Bite Prevention Week, we are providing you with the following tips to help avoid a dog bite attack.

First and foremost, never disturb a dog while it is eating, sleeping or caring for its puppies. This seems basic but many dog bite attacks occur when a person disturbs a dog in this manner. A dog gets very protective over its food and its young. And it is never good to startle a dog by waking it from a sleep.

Second, if the dog is not your own pet, never pet the dog without letting it see and sniff you. In other words, don't approach the dog from behind where it cannot see you and always allow the dog to pick up your scent before attempting to pet it. You should allow the dog to smell the back of your hand.

Third, never leave a child alone with a dog which is not their pet. A dog may be unpredictable and a child may be even more unpredictable. This is not a good combination. The highest incidents of dog bites occur in children between the ages of 5 and 9. And more than 2/3 of the injuries in children ages 4 and younger are to the face and neck.

Following these three tips will help protect your family and your dog.

Related Web Resources:

CDC, National Dog Bite Prevention Week

American Veterinary Medical Association - Dog Bite Prevention

Posted by Michael Mednick | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Dog Bite

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Another Pit Bull attack has occurred, this time on a three year old boy. The child went into the backyard with the dog and suffered bite wounds to the face and neck. He has been treated in a local hospital.

According to the CDC, an estimated 4.7 million people are attacked by a dog each year and nearly half of the dog bites occur in children. About 800,000 of the victims of a dog bite required medical attention. Children under the age of 4 are most often bitten in the face and neck.

According to a report published by the CDC, approximately 60% of all dog bite fatalities involve Pit Bulls and Rottweillers.

The Philadelphia Personal Injury Law Firm of Mednick, Mezyk & Kredo can assist you if you have been the victim of a dog attack. Contact us for a free confidential consultation.

Posted by Michael Mednick | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Dog Bite

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A 7 year old girl is the victim of a dog bite attack. In this case, it can be blamed on improper parent supervision. The child was visiting her father's home and went into the back yard alone to play with the dog. The dog, a pit bull mix, happened to be eating. When the child got to close, the dog attacked, biting her several times and dislocating her shoulder.

Unfortunately, children are the frequent victims of dog bite attacks. According to the Center for Disease Control, dogs most frequently bite children between the ages of 5 and 9 in the head, neck and face.

As homeowners, we open ourselves to liablity if our dog bites a member of our family or a visitor. Our Philadelphia Personal Injury Law Office has handled many of these cases. Most times, a homeowner's policy covers the owners of the dog in the event of a dog bite attack.

Parents, it is up to us to protect our children from dogs. We must use our best judgment when we decide what breed of dog to buy as a famly pet and how we supervise our children around our dogs and the dogs of our friends and family. And, please, don't ever let ANYONE disturb a dog when it is eating, sleeping or caring for its puppies.

Posted by Michael Mednick | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Dog Bite , Home Owners Liability

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A child who sustained serious injuries as a result of a dog bite attack has agreed to settle for $1.8 million. The victim was bitten on the eyelids, chin and ears. He underwent multiple surgeries, had to have his left ear amputated and lost much of his right ear because of the incident.

Records showed the school had called animal control officials 19 times in the preceeding three years to have dogs removed from the school grounds. We all have a right to expect that our children will be safe while they are at school and on school grounds. Certainly, the school knew there had been prior problems with dogs roaming loose. They should have and could have simply installed a fence to prevent dogs from entering the school yard. The failure to do so led to the negligent action, or in this case, inaction, on the part of the school.

In our Philadelphia Personal Injury Law Office, we represent individuals who been victims of dog bite attacks. If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of a dog bite attack, contact us for a free consultation.

Posted by Michael Mednick | Permalink | Email This Post

Posted In: Dog Bite

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