When a Delivery Driver Is Bitten by a Dog in Pennsylvania: What You Need To Know

Dog bites are common in Pennsylvania and many involve people who visit a home to perform a job. Package delivery is one of the most common situations where a person enters private property for a lawful purpose. UPS drivers, FedEx drivers, Amazon drivers, postal workers, food delivery workers, and local couriers all enter homes and businesses every day. When a dog bites a delivery driver, the injury raises two questions. First, who is responsible for the medical treatment. Second, whether the injured worker has the right to seek compensation for losses that go beyond medical care.

This guide explains how Pennsylvania treats dog bites, how workers’ compensation applies, and how a third party claim may help an injured delivery driver recover additional damages. It also explains what steps a delivery driver should take after a bite and how a law firm can help. Shenderovich, Shenderovich and Fishman, P.C. has represented many injured workers and understands the specific issues that arise in delivery driver dog bite cases.

Delivery Drivers Are Lawful Visitors Under Pennsylvania Law

A delivery driver who walks onto private property in Pennsylvania is a lawful visitor. The person has the right to enter the property to complete a delivery. This status is important. A property owner owes a duty to keep lawful visitors safe from known hazards. A dog that can bite is a hazard, and the owner has a responsibility to keep the dog under control.

Pennsylvania treats dog bites under both statutory rules and general negligence principles. This means a delivery driver may have more than one legal avenue after a bite. The exact options depend on the severity of the bite, the circumstances of the incident, and the conduct of the dog owner.

Strict Liability for Medical Costs in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania’s Dog Law (3 P.S. § 459-502) makes dog owners strictly liable for the medical costs of a person who suffers a dog bite or attack. Strict liability means the injured person does not need to prove that the owner acted carelessly. It does not matter whether the dog had a past history of aggression or whether the owner believed the dog was safe. If the dog caused an injury, the owner is responsible for medical bills.

Strict liability covers medical treatment only. It does not cover pain and suffering, lost income, future care, or scarring. Those losses may be available through a separate claim when the facts support negligence or when the injury meets the definition of a severe injury.

For a delivery driver, strict liability helps with the immediate medical bills. This can include emergency care, stitches, x-rays, follow-up appointments, infection treatment, and other related medical needs.

Seeking Full Damages Requires Proof of Negligence or a Severe Injury

If the delivery driver wants damages beyond medical bills, the claim must fit one of two paths. The first path is a negligence claim. The second path is a severe injury claim.

A negligence claim requires proof that the dog owner failed to act with reasonable care. Examples include:

Many delivery drivers are bitten at the front door when a dog rushes out. Others are bitten when a dog is left loose in a yard or behind a poorly secured fence. When a dog owner fails to take simple steps to protect a visitor, the owner may be liable for a broader range of damages.

A severe injury claim does not require proof of negligence. Under Pennsylvania law, a severe injury is one that results in broken bones or disfiguring lacerations that need multiple sutures or cosmetic surgery. In these cases, the injured person may seek recovery for pain and suffering and other losses.

Both paths can apply in a delivery driver case, and the facts will dictate the best strategy. Shenderovich, Shenderovich and Fishman, P.C. reviews each case in detail and determines the strongest legal approach.

Workers’ Compensation Also Applies to Delivery Driver Dog Bites

A dog bite that occurs while a delivery driver is working is a workplace injury. The driver can file a workers’ compensation claim with the employer. Workers’ compensation covers reasonable medical care and a portion of lost wages if the injury prevents the driver from working. It also covers specific loss benefits if the injury affects function or causes permanent impairment.

Workers’ compensation does not cover pain and suffering. It also does not hold the dog owner accountable. This is why many delivery drivers have two potential claims: a workers’ compensation claim and a third party claim against the dog owner.

The two claims do not conflict. In fact, they often work together. Workers’ compensation provides medical care and wage replacement while the third party claim covers losses that workers’ compensation does not pay. This includes scarring, long-term pain, emotional distress, and other damages.

A third party claim may also reimburse the workers’ compensation insurer for medical bills paid on behalf of the employee. An experienced law firm knows how to handle this issue and ensure that the injured worker receives the full amount of compensation allowed by law.

Common Injuries in Delivery Driver Dog Bite Cases

Dog bites vary in severity. Some involve punctures and tearing. Some cause broken bones in the hand or arm when the driver tries to defend against the dog. Others leave deep wounds that lead to infection or scarring.

Common injuries include:

These injuries affect a driver’s ability to work and may require significant medical care. Early treatment and documentation are important for both workers’ compensation and the third party claim.

What a Delivery Driver Should Do After a Dog Bite in Pennsylvania

A clean process after the incident helps protect health and legal rights. The following steps are important.

1. Seek medical care

A dog bite can lead to infection in a short period of time. A doctor will clean the wound, check for tendon or nerve involvement, and determine whether the driver needs antibiotics or a tetanus shot. Medical records also create clear documentation of the injury.

2. Report the incident

The driver should report the bite to the employer, which starts the workers’ compensation process. The driver should also contact local animal control or the police when appropriate. These reports often help identify the dog, confirm vaccination status, and note prior incidents.

3. Gather evidence

If possible, the driver should take photographs of the wound, the yard, the delivery location, and the dog. A photograph of the door, gate, or fence can help show how the bite occurred. The driver should also get the names of any witnesses, including neighbors or co-workers.

4. Avoid discussions with insurance companies

Insurance adjusters may call early and request statements. These statements can affect the claim. Speaking with a lawyer before giving any statement protects the injured worker.

5. Contact a personal injury lawyer

Dog bite cases involving delivery drivers often include multiple insurance policies and two legal systems: workers’ compensation and personal injury law. A lawyer with experience in both areas will guide the driver through the process and protect the right to full compensation.

Who May Be Liable for a Delivery Driver Dog Bite in Pennsylvania

Liability can extend to more than one person depending on the property and the dog’s living arrangement. The dog owner is the primary responsible party. In some cases, the property owner may also share responsibility.

Examples include:

Each case requires a careful review. Shenderovich, Shenderovich and Fishman, P.C. investigates all possible sources of liability to maximize recovery for the injured worker.

The Two Year Statute of Limitations in Pennsylvania

A dog bite claim must be filed within two years from the date of the injury. This deadline applies to personal injury claims. Workers’ compensation deadlines are different, but they also require prompt action. Delay can harm a claim and limit the damages available. This is another reason to consult a lawyer as soon as possible after the incident.

How Shenderovich, Shenderovich and Fishman, P.C. Helps Delivery Drivers After Dog Bites

A delivery driver faces a unique set of challenges after a dog bite. The driver may have physical injuries, lost income, and stress related to time away from work. The driver may also have concerns about workers’ compensation, third party claims, and how these systems overlap.

Shenderovich, Shenderovich and Fishman, P.C. focuses on personal injury cases in Pennsylvania and handles dog bite claims on a regular basis. The firm understands the rules that apply to strict liability, negligence, and severe injuries. The firm also understands how to coordinate workers’ compensation benefits with a third party claim to secure full compensation.

The firm reviews the facts, gathers evidence, works with medical providers, negotiates with insurance companies, and prepares each case with care. Delivery drivers deserve clear guidance and strong representation. Shenderovich, Shenderovich and Fishman, P.C. provides this support.

Dog Bite Cases Involving Delivery Drivers Need Careful Legal Attention

A delivery driver who suffers a dog bite in Pennsylvania has important rights under state law. Strict liability covers medical bills. Workers’ compensation covers workplace injuries. A third party claim may provide full damages when the injury is severe or when the dog owner failed to act with reasonable care. These cases benefit from a clear strategy and prompt legal guidance. If you are a delivery driver who suffered a dog bite while working, contact Shenderovich, Shenderovich and Fishman, P.C. for a free consultation. Call the firm today to learn your options and protect your right to full compensation.

Expert Advice For Avoiding Dog Attacks

Dogs can make for wonderful pets. However, some dogs are aggressive and may bite you if they perceive you to be a threat.

The severity of the injuries you could sustain when a dog bites you will vary depending on numerous factors, such as a dog’s size, breed, etc.

It’s always wise to see a doctor after being bitten by a dog. This is true even if a bite was seemingly harmless. Although you may not notice any signs of injury, it’s possible for a dog bite to cause an infection.

Let a doctor take a close look at your bite to confirm no treatment is necessary. Be aware, that seeing a doctor right away after a dog bites you can also potentially improve your chances of recovering financial compensation later if you decide to file a claim or lawsuit against a negligent dog owner.

By seeing a doctor the same day you were bitten by the dog in question, you can more easily prove to an insurance company that the injuries for which you are seeking compensation directly resulted from this dog bite incident, and not a separate incident that occurred at another time. This will make it more difficult for an insurance company to justify denying your claim.

Of course, your primary goal is to avoid being bitten by a dog in the first place. Animal safety experts offer these tips for achieving this goal:

Get to Know Your Neighborhood

If you’ve moved into a new neighborhood, one of your top priorities may involve learning whether any of your neighbors own dangerous and aggressive dogs.

Various people can offer this information. Postal workers and delivery workers who operate in your area will likely know where aggressive dogs live. New neighbors who seem to have lived in the community for a reasonable amount of time can also answer questions you may have on this topic. Additionally, animal control might have records about where dog attacks have occurred in the neighborhood.

Stay Still & Look Down

Your natural impulse may be to run when a frightening dog approaches you. Of course, if you absolutely know you have the opportunity to step into your home, vehicle, or business before a dog can reach you, this may be your best option.

However, if you have nowhere to go, experts recommend doing something that might seem counterintuitive: standing still where you are, breaking eye contact with the dog, and looking down. This can signal to a dog that you are not a threat.

That said, you must exercise your own judgment in these situations. The information here, while based on the advice of the executive director of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, should not be misconstrued as official recommendations.

Just know that if a dog does bite you and causes injury, you can often take legal action to recover compensation for your medical bills and related losses. A Pittsburgh dog attack attorney at Shenderovich, Shenderovich & Fishman is prepared to review your case and help you better understand your legal options. Learn more about what we can do for you if you’ve been injured by an aggressive dog by contacting us online or calling us at 888-98-TWINS (89467).

Dog Bites Are Harder To Convict

Because the pandemic has caused everyone to become a pet owner, dogs are happier for the situation, but not all owners know how to handle their dogs. Our Pittsburgh dog bite attorneys at Shenderovich, Shenderovich & Fishman have seen the tragic stories of innocent children, teens, and adults mauled by dogs. We are here to help you tell your story in court to get the compensation you deserve.

 Not All Endings Make Sense

In recent years people have been increasingly online shopping. This means companies like UPS and FedEx are constantly on the move and delivering more and more to doorsteps. In 2019, a UPS driver was mauled by three dogs on someone’s private property. The delivery woman suffered a major injury to her leg. She commented that the injury to her calf resembled what she imagined a shark bite to look like. The owner of the dogs went to court and won against the UPS driver. His defense attorney stated that the dogs were confined to his private property and that the confinement statute was not violated. This shocking result has left victims shaken. The UPS driver is going back to court with a $50,000 negligence lawsuit.

The three dogs responsible for the injuries were put down after the incident. A sad ending all around: the owner knew of the aggressive nature of the dogs, the UPS woman was trying to do her job, a defense attorney who knew to work the legal system, and a judge willing to accept the defense attorney’s argument. Our dog bite attorneys are very experienced and aware of dog bite laws in Pennsylvania.  Even though there is no magic wand to wave to make the situation better, we know some steps you can take to make the situation easier.

An attorney by your side can ensure that the dog is properly isolated after such an incident as required by law. An attorney can also ensure that you get the compensation you deserve from medical bills to physical and mental therapy. We advocate for your financial needs, and the dog owner will be held responsible. You can contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or calling 888-988-9467.

Dog Bites Affect Children More Severely Than Adults

Dogs are a unique species. They’re smart enough to shake, roll over, and fetch. Dogs protect our children and us from intruders. How many times have we stopped for an “aww” moment scrolling through Facebook when we see a cute puppy and baby sleeping together? Dogs are wonderful pets. Still, even the friendliest and most protective pets can hurt those we love.

Dog bites are a problem. There are too many tragic news stories that start with a sleeping baby and family dog and end with the dog inexplicably mauling and killing the child. A dear friend of mine had a similar story that almost ended tragically.

While she was visiting her neighbor, her six-month-old baby boy played on a blanket on the floor. The baby innocently grabbed at the dog’s toy. The night ended with her baby being bitten severely in the face and head.

Her son lived. Today he is a happy ten-year-old boy who excitedly told me about his holiday and all the presents he received. It’s not something you notice at first glance, but look closely, and you can still see the bite marks along his jaw, temple, and cheek.

Injuries from dog bites are, unfortunately, all too common. The attorneys at Shenderovich, Shenderovich, & Fishman P.C. have extensive experience with dog bite and personal injury cases. When you need a personal injury lawyer in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, call Shenderovich, Shenderovich, & Fishman. Our highly sought team will secure the compensation you deserve. Call us today.

Dog Bites Are a Greater Health Risk for Children

According to the CDC, 50% of dog bite victims are children. Dog bites threaten children more than the mumps, whooping cough, and the mumps combined. When we think of all the ways our children are injured daily, we count bike accidents, mopeds, skateboards, hoverboards, and falling off the monkey bars. However, dog bites are far more common in children.

If we break down the numbers:

Dogs bite. It’s in their nature. We never know what could set them off. Maybe the neighbor’s dog is old and doesn’t want to share his toy with the baby. Perhaps the usually friendly dog down the road gets spooked and bites the closest thing to him, your child. Whatever the circumstance, dog bites are common. Let’s educate our children on how to be safe around dogs, even ones they know.

Why You Need Representation

If a dog has bitten you or your child, the case is never as simple as you think. Liability can be challenged. For example, what if the dog owner claims your child was teasing the dog at the time of the attack? Liability could be shifted onto your child as well as the dog owner. What if the insurance company minimizes its responsibility and refuses to cover all the medical bills due to shared liability? A personal injury lawyer in Pittsburgh will protect you from being taken advantage of by the insurance company’s tactics.

Conclusion

If you or someone you love has been injured as the result of a dog attack, you may be entitled to compensation to cover:

Call your personal injury attorney in Pennsylvania today at Shenderovich, Shenderovich, & Fishman P.C. You can contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or calling 888-988-9467.

Who Is Responsible In A Dog Attack?

What is the first thing you think about when you hear of a dog bite or attack? It is not something that most of us think about often or expect, but we want you to know that it can happen to anyone. It seems like we are hearing more and more stories like this one, where a Pennsylvania mother and her 13-month-old baby were attacked by a dog while walking down the street.

In that case, not even a neighbor could stop the dog. Luckily, a passing motorist pulled over and was able to stop the attack. Unfortunately, the little girl was seriously injured. Her mother also had multiple bites and the man who helped stop the attack suffered a serious leg injury after falling on the ice while struggling with the dog.

At Shenderovich, Shenderovich & Fishman, we are here to help when you need a Pittsburgh dog attack attorney. Our knowledgeable and experienced team will work to secure the compensation you need for all of your incident-related expenses.

The Incidents

Dog attacks can be terrifying and devastating, especially for young children and the elderly. Both groups are more vulnerable because they cannot fight back as easily as an able-bodied adult. However, anyone is at risk of an attack when a dog’s owner is negligent and careless in their duties. With the story above, we do not yet know where to dog came from or why it was roaming the street. We do know that it was improperly secured.

Dog owners should always take steps to keep their pets secured on their property. If they leave a fence or door open, a dog can get out and cause chaos. We also know that dog owners should always have their pets leashed according to municipal leash laws. Under no circumstances should a person allow their dog to be around other people or pets if it is known to be aggressive.

You may be surprised to learn that there are approximately 4.7 million dog bites each year in the United States. While most of these bites are minor, there are many that cause serious damage. Dogs have powerful jaws that can cause significant soft-tissue damage. Many attacks require a person to undergo both emergency surgery and reconstructive plastic surgery to repair the damage.

What Happens Now?

We know that the last thing you expected to be dealing with was a dog attack injury. If you or someone you love has been attacked, you need to seek legal assistance. At Shenderovich, Shenderovich & Fishman, we will work diligently to secure the compensation you need. This can include:

If you need a Pittsburgh dog attack attorney, you can contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or calling 888-98-TWINS(89467).

Dog Bite Fatalities In Children

Children, as we know, are the most vulnerable of our population. Parents and close family members do all they can to ensure that their children are protected at all times. This includes when their children are around animals. Yet, people get really comfortable around animals and sometimes even too comfortable with animals that they aren’t familiar with. Children are at a higher risk of serious injuries or fatalities than adults. Children who are under the age of 15 make up for 60% of those who are bitten by dogs. Children from ages 5-9 are the most vulnerable. Children are unable to understand a dog’s signs of fearfulness, aggression, or attack. Because of this, they are more likely to engage with dangerous dogs at a young age than as an older teen or adult. This means that parents need to take extra precautions with their children around animals and learn to read the animals for them.

Dog Bite Injuries

There are about 800,000 bites every year in the nation that require some form of medical attention. A study broke down this number into smaller increments and discovered that every day there are 2,400 dog attacks that break down further to an attack happening every 36 seconds. Children have the highest percentage of needing to get medical attention. The CDC has suggested that dog attacks are a greater health concern than measles, mumps, and whooping cough. This speaks to the commonality of dog attacks on our youth.

The most common injuries for a dog bite are a puncture wound, lacerations, deep bruising, and scarring. Unfortunately, when these kinds of serious injuries happen to a child they more likely to suffer more damage and maybe even succumb to their injuries they sustained. Children not only suffer significantly from physical damage but also emotional trauma. A child who is attacked by a dog at a young age can form post-traumatic stress disorder which interrupts a child’s academic and emotional growth. It can interrupt their sleeping and therefore negatively influence the playtime or sports time. If your child was attacked by a dog then you are looking at medical bills as well as psychological bills too.

What To Do

In the Pittsburgh area, it is not uncommon to hear of dog bites. Unfortunately, this story was of a 9-year-old boy who was playing in the neighborhood was tracked down by a dog who chased him to his home where he was scratched and bitten. You can never be too careful with your children and the neighborhood animals. Just because you keep your animal in controlled spaces doesn’t mean that other people are just as responsible as you.

If you or someone you love has been attacked by a dog then you have the right to receive compensation for the injuries that you or your loved one has sustained. The dog owner is responsible for the dog and you deserve financial compensation for all the medical or psychological bills because of their neglect of the owner. Call 888-98-TWINS(89467) at SSF Law Group today.