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    <title type="text">ViKing Law</title>
    <subtitle type="text">ViKing Law</subtitle>

    <updated>2026-06-03T05:13:04Z</updated>

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        <entry>
            <author>
									                    <name>On Behalf of ViKing Law</name>
				            </author>
            <title type="html"><![CDATA[Viking Law Helps Dog Bite Victims in Doylestown and Across Pennsylvania]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.viking-law.com/blog/2025/11/viking-law-helps-dog-bite-victims-in-doylestown-and-across-pennsylvania/" />
            <id>https://www.viking-law.com/?p=46826</id>
            <updated>2025-11-25T09:25:07Z</updated>
            <published>2025-11-24T09:02:51Z</published>
					<taxo:topics><![CDATA[-]]></taxo:topics>
            <summary type="html"><![CDATA[Published: November 24, 2025 | Viking Law – Pennsylvania Dog Bite Lawyer If you’ve been bitten or attacked by a dog in Pennsylvania, you may be wondering: Who’s legally responsible? What compensation can I get? Should I report it? At Viking Law, we regularly represent dog bite victims in Doylestown, Bucks County, Philadelphia, and across Pennsylvania. Whether your injury happened…]]></summary>
			                <content type="html" xml:base="https://www.viking-law.com/blog/2025/11/viking-law-helps-dog-bite-victims-in-doylestown-and-across-pennsylvania/"><![CDATA[Published: November 24, 2025 | Viking Law – Pennsylvania Dog Bite Lawyer

If you’ve been bitten or attacked by a dog in Pennsylvania, you may be wondering:

Who’s legally responsible? What compensation can I get? Should I report it?

At Viking Law, we regularly represent dog bite victims in Doylestown, Bucks County, Philadelphia, and across Pennsylvania. Whether your injury happened in a local park, on a neighbor’s property, or during a delivery route, we understand the challenges victims face — and we know how to fight for full compensation.

<hr />

<h2>Who Is Liable After a Dog Bite in Pennsylvania?</h2>
Under Pennsylvania dog bite law, the dog’s owner or keeper is strictly liable for your medical bills if their dog bites you. That’s true even if the dog never showed aggression before.

But to recover money for pain and suffering, lost income, scarring, or other damages, you usually need to prove negligence or that the dog had dangerous propensities and the owner knew or should have known.

Start with the location of where the attack occurred and check the local municipal laws regarding dogs. Some municipalities require dogs to be leashed at all times while others only require it in certain circumstances.

For example, in Newtown Borough, PA, all dogs must be on a leash when not on the owner’s property. There are limited exceptions for dog parks with fences. Dogs are considered personal property, and therefore owners are responsible for damages caused by their dog.

The dog’s history and propensity for attacks is also relevant. If the dog has ever attacked anyone before and it was not reported but known to have happened, the owners are liable for the attack.

“Any cost to the victim for medical treatment resulting from an attacking or biting dog must be paid fully by the owner or keeper of the dog.” (3 P.S. § 459-502(b)(1))

<hr />

<h2>Proving Liability: Three Legal Paths</h2>
<strong>1. Strict Liability for Medical Bills</strong>

If you suffered a bite, the owner must pay your medical costs. No need to prove the dog was dangerous.

<strong>2. Negligence</strong>

If the dog was unrestrained, unsupervised, or allowed to roam, the owner may be found negligent. You must prove:
<ul>
 	<li>The owner owed a duty of care</li>
 	<li>They breached that duty</li>
 	<li>Their negligence caused your injuries</li>
</ul>
Example: A dog escapes a yard with a broken fence and bites someone. The owner failed to fix the fence — that’s likely negligence.

<strong>3. Negligence Per Se</strong>

If the owner violated the Pennsylvania Dog Law, for example, letting a dog run loose or failing to muzzle a dangerous dog — that violation can automatically establish liability under the doctrine of negligence per se.

Violating section 502-A (harboring a dangerous dog) can support this claim, especially if the bite resulted in:
<ul>
 	<li>Broken bones</li>
 	<li>Disfiguring lacerations</li>
 	<li>Cosmetic surgery</li>
</ul>
These are considered “severe injuries” under the statute.

<hr />

<h2>Does Pennsylvania Follow the “One Free Bite” Rule?</h2>
Not anymore. Courts in Pennsylvania have made it clear:

Even a dog’s first bite can lead to legal liability especially if the injury is severe.

The 1996 amendments to the Pennsylvania Dog Law eliminated the outdated idea that a dog must bite once before the owner can be held liable.

<hr />

<h2>What Counts as a “Dangerous Dog” in PA?</h2>
A dog may be legally classified as dangerous if it:
<ul>
 	<li>Bites or attacks without provocation</li>
 	<li>Inflicts severe injury (broken bones, scarring, etc.)</li>
 	<li>Has a history of aggression toward people or animals</li>
</ul>
Dangerous dogs must be properly confined and muzzled when off-property. Violations of these rules often lead to criminal charges and civil liability.

<hr />

<h2>Can You Sue a Landlord for a Dog Bite?</h2>
Usually, landlords are <strong>not</strong> responsible unless:
<ul>
 	<li>They knew the dog was dangerous</li>
 	<li>They had control over the premises and the ability to remove the dog</li>
</ul>
In most cases, the dog owner or keeper is the liable party, not the landlord.

<hr />

<h2>Should You Report a Dog Bite in Pennsylvania?</h2>
<strong>Yes. Always.</strong> Reporting the bite helps:
<ul>
 	<li>Document the attack for your legal claim</li>
 	<li>Trigger an animal control investigation</li>
 	<li>Potentially prevent future attacks on others</li>
</ul>
<strong>Call animal control or your local police department right away.</strong> In Doylestown, for example, get the owner's information and vaccination records. Contact the Bucks County Health Department or the police to report the incident and start an investigation.

<b>Bucks County Health Department Phone: <a href="tel:+1-215-345-3336" data-wpel-link="internal">215-345-3336</a></b>

<hr />

<h2>What Compensation Can Dog Bite Victims Recover?</h2>
If your injury involved more than basic medical costs, and the owner was negligent or violated the Dog Law, you may be able to recover for:
<ul>
 	<li>Medical expenses (past &amp; future)</li>
 	<li>Lost wages</li>
 	<li>Pain and suffering</li>
 	<li>Permanent scarring or disfigurement</li>
 	<li>Emotional trauma and anxiety</li>
 	<li>Loss of earning potential</li>
</ul>

<hr />

<h2>Viking Law Can Help You Recover After a Dog Bite Injury</h2>
Dog bite injuries are serious and so is your right to compensation. At Viking Law, we fight to hold negligent dog owners accountable and help our clients rebuild after a traumatic injury.

Our attorneys understand Pennsylvania’s dog bite laws, insurance claim tactics, and how to build a strong case that gets results.
Don’t let one bite define your future. Let’s talk.

📞 Call Viking Law today for a free consultation.

Or use our online form to get started now.

For more information on Dog Bites in PA, visit or contact the <a href="https://www.pa.gov/agencies/pda/animals/information-about-dogs/pas-dog-laws" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement</a> by calling <a href="tel:+1-717-787-3062" data-wpel-link="internal">717-787-3062</a> or emailing them at <a href="mailto:ra-agdoglaw@pa.gov">ra-agdoglaw@pa.gov</a>.]]></content>
						        </entry>
	        <entry>
            <author>
									                    <name>On Behalf of ViKing Law</name>
				            </author>
            <title type="html"><![CDATA[Viking Law Wins $1.76 Million Jury Verdict for Survivor]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.viking-law.com/blog/2025/10/viking-law-wins-1-76-million-jury-verdict-for-survivor/" />
            <id>https://www.viking-law.com/?p=46821</id>
            <updated>2025-10-31T12:18:19Z</updated>
            <published>2025-10-31T11:37:00Z</published>
					<taxo:topics><![CDATA[-]]></taxo:topics>
            <summary type="html"><![CDATA[Viking Law Wins $1.76 Million Jury Verdict for Survivor in Philadelphia Sexual Abuse Case Viking Law proudly announces a major legal victory in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas, where our trial team secured a $1.76 million jury verdict on behalf of a survivor of sexual abuse. This verdict represents justice long overdue and highlights the courage of our client,…]]></summary>
			                <content type="html" xml:base="https://www.viking-law.com/blog/2025/10/viking-law-wins-1-76-million-jury-verdict-for-survivor/"><![CDATA[Viking Law Wins $1.76 Million Jury Verdict for Survivor in Philadelphia Sexual Abuse Case

Viking Law proudly announces a major legal victory in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas, where our trial team secured a $1.76 million jury verdict on behalf of a survivor of sexual abuse.

This verdict represents justice long overdue and highlights the courage of our client, who bravely chose to come forward and share her story. Her strength and determination not only brought accountability but also serves as an inspiration to other survivors throughout Pennsylvania.

At Viking Law, our Philadelphia sexual abuse lawyers and Pennsylvania sexual assault attorneys are dedicated to fighting for survivors’ rights and ensuring their voices are heard. We have extensive experience handling complex abuse and assault cases, and we stand with our clients every step of the way — from the first consultation through trial.

Our mission is simple: to seek justice, hold wrongdoers accountable, and help survivors reclaim their power.

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual abuse or assault in Philadelphia or anywhere in Pennsylvania, contact Viking Law for a confidential consultation. Our compassionate, experienced legal team is here to help you understand your rights and fight for the justice you deserve.]]></content>
						        </entry>
	        <entry>
            <author>
									                    <name>On Behalf of ViKing Law</name>
				            </author>
            <title type="html"><![CDATA[Newtown morning traffic accidents: What to do if you&#8217;re hit]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.viking-law.com/blog/2025/07/newtown-morning-traffic-accidents-what-to-do-if-youre-hit/" />
            <id>https://www.viking-law.com/?p=46796</id>
            <updated>2025-07-16T11:12:47Z</updated>
            <published>2025-07-16T11:12:47Z</published>
					<taxo:topics><![CDATA[-]]></taxo:topics>
            <summary type="html"><![CDATA[If you’ve spent any time driving through Newtown during the morning rush, you’ve seen how quickly traffic piles up on the Bypass, Route 332 and I-295. Cars stop short, drivers weave through tight lanes, and before you know it, one mistake sets off a chain reaction. These pileups happen fast, whether someone looks down at their phone or slams the…]]></summary>
			                <content type="html" xml:base="https://www.viking-law.com/blog/2025/07/newtown-morning-traffic-accidents-what-to-do-if-youre-hit/"><![CDATA[<span style="font-weight: 400;">If you've spent any time driving through Newtown during the morning rush, you've seen how quickly traffic piles up on the Bypass, Route 332 and I-295. Cars stop short, drivers weave through tight lanes, and before you know it, one mistake sets off a chain reaction. These pileups happen fast, whether someone looks down at their phone or slams the brakes too late. Congestion turns small errors into multicar crashes, especially when people are in a hurry to get to work or school.</span>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">What you need to do right after a morning crash</span></h2>
<span style="font-weight: 400;">The first thing you do is protect yourself. Get your vehicle to a safe spot if you can and call 911 as soon as possible. Don't try to figure out who caused what at the scene – that comes later. For now, exchange insurance and contact information with the other drivers and </span><a href="https://blogs.cornell.edu/learning/uncategorized/what-you-need-to-know-to-preserve-crucial-evidence-after-a-car-accident/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external"><span style="font-weight: 400;">start documenting everything you can</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">: photos of the crash, the vehicles involved and the road conditions around you. In multicar accidents, evidence matters because multiple drivers may share responsibility.</span>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Fault in Pennsylvania pileups is not always clear-cut</span></h2>
<span style="font-weight: 400;">In Pennsylvania, determining fault in a chain-reaction crash gets complicated fast. You've probably heard that we follow a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning the court looks at everyone's actions and assigns a percentage of fault. If your share of the blame stays below 51%, you can still recover compensation from the other driver – or drivers – who caused the crash. Police reports, witness statements and the physical damage to each vehicle help paint a clearer picture of what really happened.</span>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Filing your claim without adding to your stress</span></h2>
<span style="font-weight: 400;">After a crash, your personal injury protection (PIP) will cover your medical bills, no matter who was at fault – that's part of Pennsylvania's no-fault insurance system. But when your injuries or property damage go beyond that, the next step is filing a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance. In multicar crashes, that might mean dealing with several insurers at once. If you feel overwhelmed, a local attorney can help you sort through the confusion and fight for what you are owed.</span>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Helping you get back on the road after a crash</span></h2>
<span style="font-weight: 400;">You didn't plan for your morning commute to end in a pileup, but now that it has, you need to protect yourself and your next steps. Take care of your health first, get your claim moving and don't hesitate to ask for help </span><a href="/car-accidents/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal"><span style="font-weight: 400;">when the legal process feels overwhelming</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. You've got enough on your plate, so let someone who knows Pennsylvania's accident laws help you figure out what comes next.</span>]]></content>
						        </entry>
	        <entry>
            <author>
									                    <name>On Behalf of ViKing Law</name>
				            </author>
            <title type="html"><![CDATA[Construction injuries and investigations: Tips for victims]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.viking-law.com/blog/2025/05/construction-injuries-and-investigations-tips-for-victims/" />
            <id>https://www.viking-law.com/?p=46789</id>
            <updated>2025-05-02T16:17:01Z</updated>
            <published>2025-05-02T16:17:01Z</published>
					<taxo:topics><![CDATA[-]]></taxo:topics>
            <summary type="html"><![CDATA[Few workplaces are as dangerous as construction sites. Even when safety protocols are in place, accidents can occur. When a construction accident happens, an official investigation helps to determine the cause and establish accountability. For injured workers, understanding what to expect from this process and how to prepare is an important step towards protecting their rights and ensuring fair compensation.…]]></summary>
			                <content type="html" xml:base="https://www.viking-law.com/blog/2025/05/construction-injuries-and-investigations-tips-for-victims/"><![CDATA[Few workplaces are as dangerous as construction sites. Even when safety protocols are in place, accidents can occur. When a construction accident happens, an official investigation helps to determine the cause and establish accountability. For injured workers, understanding what to expect from this process and how to prepare is an important step towards protecting their rights and ensuring fair compensation.
<h2>What should I expect from investigators?</h2>
An investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or supervisors <a href="https://www.osha.gov/incident-investigation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">will likely include</a> an examination of the scene, the gathering of evidence, and interviews of witnesses. Official investigators will use this information to piece together the events leading to the accident.

Injured workers should anticipate the following:
<ul>
 	<li><strong>Detailed examination:</strong> Investigators will scrutinize the accident site, equipment, and safety protocols to identify any violations or negligence.</li>
 	<li><strong>Interviews:</strong> Expect interviews with witnesses, supervisors, and other relevant parties to gather firsthand accounts of the incident.</li>
 	<li><strong>Documentation review:</strong> Investigators will also review safety records, training logs, and maintenance reports to assess compliance with regulations.</li>
</ul>
Injured workers are wise to gather and organize evidence to <a href="https://www.viking-law.com/construction-injuries/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">support their claims</a>. This can include photographs of the accident scene and visible injuries as well as copies of all related medical records. Having a copy of witness statements is also helpful.
<h2>Should I prepare for litigation?</h2>
This depends on the details of the case. If you are a worker injured while on-the-job, litigation is unlikely. This is because compensation should be available through a workers’ compensation claim. It is important to note that legal counsel can help to better ensure injured workers receive fair compensation as denials or low compensation offers are a common issue.

There are two scenarios where preparation for litigation is wise. For workers, there are situations when a third-party liability claim may offer additional compensation. Another scenario involves victims who are not construction workers. This could include someone who was injured while walking past the site at the time of the accident. In these situations, it is helpful to take steps to prepare. This can include consulting with legal counsel with experience with construction accidents as well as keeping the documentation that you prepared for the investigation discussed above available for use during litigation.

Construction accidents can lead to serious injuries for workers and those near the sites. Victims are wise to take the matter seriously and take steps to protect their rights. A few steps in the right direction can go a long way to better ensuring fair compensation to cover the costs resulting from the accident.]]></content>
						        </entry>
	        <entry>
            <author>
									                    <name>by ViKing Law</name>
				            </author>
            <title type="html"><![CDATA[Understanding Key Auto Insurance Definitions: A Guide for Policyholders]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.viking-law.com/blog/2024/08/understanding-key-auto-insurance-definitions-a-guide-for-policyholders/" />
            <id>https://www.viking-law.com/?p=46721</id>
            <updated>2024-09-26T15:28:39Z</updated>
            <published>2024-08-19T16:30:26Z</published>
					<taxo:topics><![CDATA[-]]></taxo:topics>
            <summary type="html"><![CDATA[Auto insurance is a complex field with its own set of terms and definitions that can be confusing for many. Understanding these terms is crucial for anyone purchasing or renewing an auto insurance policy, as it helps in making informed decisions about coverage and ensuring that you’re adequately protected. In this blog, we’ll break down some of the most common…]]></summary>
			                <content type="html" xml:base="https://www.viking-law.com/blog/2024/08/understanding-key-auto-insurance-definitions-a-guide-for-policyholders/"><![CDATA[Auto insurance is a complex field with its own set of terms and definitions that can be confusing for many. Understanding these terms is crucial for anyone purchasing or renewing an auto insurance policy, as it helps in making informed decisions about coverage and ensuring that you’re adequately protected. In this blog, we’ll break down some of the most common auto insurance definitions to give you a clearer picture of what they mean and how they impact your coverage.

<h2><strong>1. Premium</strong></h2>
The premium is the amount of money you pay to the insurance company for your auto insurance policy. This payment can be made monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually, depending on the terms of your policy. The premium amount is influenced by various factors, including your driving record, the type of car you drive, your age, and where you live.

<h2><strong>2. Deductible</strong></h2>
A deductible is the amount you agree to pay out of pocket before your insurance company covers the remaining costs of a claim. For example, if you have a $500 deductible and are involved in an accident that results in $2,000 in damages, you will pay the first $500, and your insurance will cover the remaining $1,500. Choosing a higher deductible typically lowers your premium, but it also increases your financial responsibility in the event of a claim.

<h2><strong>3. Liability Coverage</strong></h2>
Liability coverage is a mandatory component of auto insurance in most states. It protects you financially if you are at fault in an accident that causes bodily injury or property damage to others. Liability coverage is typically split into two parts:
      <ul class="">
           <li>Bodily Injury Liability (BIL): Covers medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering of the other party if you are responsible for the accident. In Pennsylvania, you must provide at least $15,000 per person, and $30,000 per accident in coverage.  In New Jersey, those state minimums are now $25,000 - $50,000.</li>
           <li>Property Damage Liability (PDL): Covers the cost of repairing or replacing the other party’s vehicle or property damaged in the accident.</li>
      </ul>

<h2><strong>4. Collision Coverage</strong></h2>
Collision coverage pays for the repair or replacement of your vehicle if it is damaged in an accident, regardless of who is at fault. This coverage is particularly important if you have a newer or more expensive vehicle, as it helps protect your investment. However, collision coverage is usually optional and comes with a deductible.

<h2><strong>5. Comprehensive Coverage</strong></h2>
Comprehensive coverage protects your vehicle from non-collision-related damages, such as those caused by theft, vandalism, natural disasters, or falling objects. Like collision coverage, comprehensive coverage is optional and is subject to a deductible. This coverage is essential for those who want protection from a wider range of risks beyond just accidents. This does NOT give you <u><strong><a href="/blog/2024/08/full-tort-vs-limited-tort-insurance-understanding-the-difference-in-pennsylvania/" data-wpel-link="internal">Full Tort coverage</a></strong></u>, which is completely separate, as explained in the <u><strong><a href="/blog/2024/08/full-tort-vs-limited-tort-insurance-understanding-the-difference-in-pennsylvania/" data-wpel-link="internal">tort blog</a></strong></u>. 
 
<h2><strong>6. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM)</strong></h2>
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage is designed to protect you if you are involved in an accident with a driver who either doesn’t have insurance (uninsured) or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover the full extent of the damages (underinsured). This coverage can pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages that you would otherwise have to cover out of pocket if the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance. This is not mandatory and can be waived, but <strong><i>ViKing Law does not recommend waiving this coverage<i></strong>.  If it is waived, you will be left with nothing following a serious accident if you happen to be struck by an uninsured or underinsured driver. These benefits can also be “stacked” meaning multiplied by how ever many vehicles you own.  Example:  If you have $15,000/$30,000 UM/UIM coverage, stacked, with three vehicles on the policy, you actually have up to $45,000/$90,000 in UM/UIM coverage total. 

<h2><strong>7. Personal Injury Protection (PIP)</strong></h2>
Personal Injury Protection, also known as PIP or “no-fault” insurance, covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs for you and your passengers, regardless of who is at fault in the accident. PIP is mandatory in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. It can also cover additional expenses like rehabilitation and funeral costs, making it a comprehensive protection for injury-related expenses.  Pennsylvania’s mandatory minimum PIP coverage that must be provided by all insurance carriers is $5,000.  

<h2><strong>8. Gap Insurance</strong></h2>
Gap insurance covers the difference between the actual cash value of your vehicle and the amount you owe on your car loan or lease if your car is totaled in an accident. This is particularly useful if you owe more on your vehicle than it’s worth, which can happen with new cars that depreciate quickly. Without gap insurance, you could be left paying off a loan for a vehicle you no longer own.

<h2><strong>9. SR-22</strong></h2>
An SR-22 is not an insurance policy, but a certificate that your insurance company files with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to prove that you have the minimum required liability insurance. It’s typically required for drivers who have been convicted of certain offenses, such as DUI, or who have had their license suspended. The SR-22 shows that you are meeting the state’s insurance requirements, but it also usually comes with higher premiums.

<h2><strong>10. Actual Cash Value (ACV)</strong></h2>
Actual Cash Value is the amount your insurance company will pay to replace your car if it’s totaled, factoring in depreciation. This is different from the replacement cost, which would cover the cost of buying a new car of the same make and model. Understanding ACV is important because it means that as your car ages, the payout from your insurance in the event of a total loss will decrease.
Confused about your coverage and what rights you have after an accident?  Call Viking Law.]]></content>
						        </entry>
	        <entry>
            <author>
									                    <name>by ViKing Law</name>
				            </author>
            <title type="html"><![CDATA[Full Tort vs. Limited Tort Insurance: Understanding the Difference in Pennsylvania]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.viking-law.com/blog/2024/08/full-tort-vs-limited-tort-insurance-understanding-the-difference-in-pennsylvania/" />
            <id>https://www.viking-law.com/?p=46719</id>
            <updated>2024-09-26T15:29:03Z</updated>
            <published>2024-08-19T16:24:50Z</published>
					<taxo:topics><![CDATA[-]]></taxo:topics>
            <summary type="html"><![CDATA[When purchasing auto insurance in Pennsylvania, drivers are faced with a crucial decision: whether to select full tort or limited tort coverage. This choice can significantly impact your, and your family members that reside with you, ability to seek compensation in the event of an accident, so it’s essential to understand the differences between these two options. What is Tort…]]></summary>
			                <content type="html" xml:base="https://www.viking-law.com/blog/2024/08/full-tort-vs-limited-tort-insurance-understanding-the-difference-in-pennsylvania/"><![CDATA[When purchasing auto insurance in Pennsylvania, drivers are faced with a crucial decision: whether to select full tort or limited tort coverage. This choice can significantly impact your, and your family members that reside with you, ability to seek compensation in the event of an accident, so it’s essential to understand the differences between these two options. 

<h2>What is Tort Insurance?</h2>
A “tort” is a wrongful act that causes harm to someone, and under tort law, the person who is harmed can seek compensation from the person responsible for the harm. In auto insurance, tort options determine your right to sue for damages after a car accident.

<h2>Full Tort Insurance</h2>
Full Tort insurance gives you the unrestricted right to sue the at-fault driver for both economic and non-economic damages after an accident. This includes:

<ul class="fl-space-gap">
<li>Economic Damages: These are quantifiable financial losses, such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.</li>
<li>Non-Economic Damages: These refer to compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of life’s enjoyment—damages that are more subjective and harder to quantify.</li>
</ul>

With full tort coverage, you maintain the right to pursue compensation for these non-economic damages, regardless of the severity of your injuries. This can be particularly important if you suffer long-term effects, such as chronic pain or a reduced quality of life, that go beyond the costs of medical treatment.


<h2>Limited Tort Insurance</h2>
Limited Tort insurance, on the other hand, restricts your ability to sue for non-economic damages. While you can still seek compensation for economic losses like medical expenses and lost income, your ability to recover damages for pain and suffering is generally limited.  Most attorneys that find out you have limited tort coverage will not even take your case unless your injuries involved serious, like altering injuries to the point you are no longer able to work.
 
However, there are exceptions to this limitation. You may be able to sue for non-economic damages under limited tort coverage if your injuries meet the legal definition of “serious injury,” which can include:

<ul class="fl-space-gap">
<li>Death</li>
<li>Significant disfigurement</li>
<li>Dismemberment</li>
<li>Permanent loss of a bodily function</li>
<li>Permanent and serious disfigurement</li>
</ul>
These exceptions are meant to provide recourse in cases where the injury has a profound impact on your life, but they set a high bar that many injuries do not meet.

<h2>Cost Differences</h2>
Limited tort insurance typically comes with lower premiums compared to full tort coverage. The trade-off, however, is the limitation on your right, and your resident family members rights, to sue for non-economic damages, which could be significant depending on the nature of the accident and your injuries.

While full tort insurance may be more expensive upfront, it provides broader protection and greater flexibility in pursuing compensation if you are injured in an accident. This can be especially valuable if you suffer injuries that, while not meeting the threshold for a “serious injury,” still have a significant impact on your life.
<strong>Viking Law always recommends obtaining full tort insurance no matter what.</strong>]]></content>
						        </entry>
	        <entry>
            <author>
									                    <name>by ViKing Law</name>
				            </author>
            <title type="html"><![CDATA[Understanding Defamation Law in Pennsylvania: A Legal Overview]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.viking-law.com/blog/2024/08/understanding-defamation-law-in-pennsylvania-a-legal-overview-by-virginia-king/" />
            <id>https://www.viking-law.com/?p=46717</id>
            <updated>2024-09-26T15:30:15Z</updated>
            <published>2024-08-19T16:07:18Z</published>
					<taxo:topics><![CDATA[-]]></taxo:topics>
            <summary type="html"><![CDATA[Defamation law in Pennsylvania seeks to balance the protection of individual reputations with the right to free speech. In Pennsylvania, as in many other states, defamation can take two forms: libel, which refers to written or published defamatory statements, and slander, which involves spoken defamatory remarks. Understanding the intricacies of defamation law in Pennsylvania is crucial for anyone involved in…]]></summary>
			                <content type="html" xml:base="https://www.viking-law.com/blog/2024/08/understanding-defamation-law-in-pennsylvania-a-legal-overview-by-virginia-king/"><![CDATA[Defamation law in Pennsylvania seeks to balance the protection of individual reputations with the right to free speech. In Pennsylvania, as in many other states, defamation can take two forms: <strong><u>libel</u></strong>, which refers to written or published defamatory statements, and <strong><u>slander</u></strong>, which involves spoken defamatory remarks. Understanding the intricacies of defamation law in Pennsylvania is crucial for anyone involved in communication, whether in media, business, or personal interactions.

<h2>What Constitutes Defamation in Pennsylvania?</h2>
To successfully bring a defamation claim in Pennsylvania, the plaintiff must prove several key elements:
<ol class="fl-space-gap">
<li>Defamatory Statement: The statement in question must be defamatory, meaning it would harm the reputation of the person or entity in the eyes of the community or lead others to avoid them.</li>
<li>Publication: The defamatory statement must be communicated to at least one person other than the subject of the statement. In legal terms, this is referred to as “publication,” and it applies to both libel and slander.  <strong><i>This includes posting a comment online<i></strong></li>
<li>Falsity: The statement must be false. Truth is an absolute defense to defamation, so if the statement is true, it cannot be deemed defamatory, no matter how damaging it may be.</li>
<li>Fault: The plaintiff must prove that the defendant was at fault when making the statement. In Pennsylvania, the level of fault required depends on the plaintiff’s status. Public figures or officials must show that the defendant acted with “actual malice,” meaning they knew the statement was false or acted with reckless disregard for the truth. Private individuals, on the other hand, need only prove that the defendant was negligent in making the false statement.</li>
<li>Harm: The plaintiff must demonstrate that the defamatory statement caused harm, such as damage to their reputation, emotional distress, or financial loss. However, in some cases, such as those involving false accusations of a crime, harm may be presumed.</li>
</ol>
Pennsylvania courts have established some unique principles in defamation law, including the recognition of “per se” defamation. In cases involving defamation per se, certain statements are considered so inherently harmful that the plaintiff does not need to prove actual harm. These include false accusations of criminal activity, incompetence in one’s profession, or having a loathsome disease.

<h2>Key Defenses to Defamation in Pennsylvania</h2>
Defendants in defamation cases have several potential defenses available to them:
<ul class="fl-space-gap">
<li>Truth: As mentioned, truth is a complete defense to a defamation claim. If the statement is true, it cannot be defamatory.</li>
<li>Opinion: Statements of opinion are generally not actionable as defamation. However, this defense only applies if the statement cannot reasonably be interpreted as stating actual facts.</li>
<li>
Privilege: Certain statements are protected by privilege, meaning they cannot be the basis for a defamation lawsuit. For example, statements made during judicial proceedings or in government meetings are typically privileged.
Another important aspect is the “fair report privilege,” which protects accurate reports of official proceedings or public records, even if the content of those proceedings or records is defamatory.
</li>
<li>Consent: If the plaintiff consented to the publication of the statement, they cannot later claim defamation.</li>
</ul>

<strong>In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for defamation claims is <u>one year</u></strong> from the date the defamatory statement was made or published. This means that a lawsuit must be filed within this time frame, or the claim will be barred.
If you or someone you know has been defamed, or are being sued for defamation, contact Viking Law for assistance.]]></content>
						        </entry>
	        <entry>
            <author>
									                    <name>On Behalf of ViKing Law</name>
				            </author>
            <title type="html"><![CDATA[Contractors:  make sure you do this before performing ANY construction work in PA]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.viking-law.com/blog/2024/06/contractors-make-sure-you-do-this-before-performing-any-construction-work-in-pa/" />
            <id>https://www.viking-law.com/?p=46708</id>
            <updated>2024-09-26T15:30:27Z</updated>
            <published>2024-06-05T15:42:05Z</published>
					<taxo:topics><![CDATA[-]]></taxo:topics>
            <summary type="html"><![CDATA[Too many skilled contractors have come to me asking for help getting paid for excellent work they performed for customers who ultimately stopped or refused to pay them. When I ask to see their Contract, they either did not make the customer sign on because “my word is good enough”, or the Contract is a basic form they made up…]]></summary>
			                <content type="html" xml:base="https://www.viking-law.com/blog/2024/06/contractors-make-sure-you-do-this-before-performing-any-construction-work-in-pa/"><![CDATA[Too many skilled contractors have come to me asking for help getting paid for excellent work they performed for customers who ultimately stopped or refused to pay them. When I ask to see their Contract, they either did not make the customer sign on because “my word is good enough”, or the Contract is a basic form they made up or found online that does not follow the law in Pennsylvania. Save yourself the time, trouble, and legal fees by doing the following on EVERY job:
<ol>
 	<li><strong>Register as a Pennsylvania Home Improvement Contractor.</strong></li>
</ol>
Pennsylvania has a Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (also known as “HICPA”) which requires any contractor making at least $5,000 a year from home improvements to register with the Attorney General’s Office. Performing any home improvement work without being registered leads to fines and allows the homeowner to recover 100% of anything paid for the work. It also has very specific parameters for information that is required to be contained within the written contract for work, and failure to abide by the terms of the Act can also lead to fines and recovery of money paid (i.e. a minimum of insurance coverage for you for the work, and completion date specified within the contract).

You can register with the Commonwealth of PA here: <a href="https://hic.attorneygeneral.gov/login.aspx" data-wpel-link="external" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Home Improvement Contractor Registration (attorneygeneral.gov)</a>
<ol start="2">
 	<li><strong>Make sure your contract terms follow the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act.</strong></li>
</ol>
Everything you tell the customer about the job should be placed in writing and signed by the customer BEFORE work begins. It should all be documented on a contract that contains at least the following information:
<ul>
 	<li>Your HICPA registration number, name, address and telephone number (no PO box)</li>
 	<li>Date of work to be performed and date expected to be completed</li>
 	<li>Description of the work to be performed and requirement of a written change order for any changes in the work being performed</li>
 	<li>Dollar value of the initial cost estimate</li>
 	<li>That the cost of the work will not exceed 10% above the dollar value of the initial cost estimate (and do the math and show the amount)</li>
 	<li>Identity of any subcontractors used by name, address and phone number</li>
 	<li>That you have liability insurance of at least $50,000</li>
 	<li>Toll free number of the PA Consumer Protection</li>
 	<li>Includes right of rescission of the contract within 3 business days</li>
</ul>
There are other requirements explained within the statute of the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act so best to get a construction business attorney like ViKING Law familiar with the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act and your needs to draft your contracts for residential home improvement work.
<ol start="3">
 	<li><strong>Make sure you AND your subcontractors have insurance coverage.</strong></li>
</ol>
If your subcontractor screws up on the job, you could be left paying for their costly mistakes. It gets even worse if their mistakes cause injuries to someone else. Always make sure they not only have the required insurance, but that it covers them and you for their work on the job. Hiring a business lawyer like ViKING Law to write your subcontractor agreements will help prevent their ability to shift their liability to you.
<ol start="4">
 	<li><strong>Always pull permits. Never agree to skip permits to save costs.</strong></li>
</ol>
Never allow a homeowner or anyone else to convince you to save them or you money by not pulling the require permits. Too many times I have seen townships walk into someone’s home, ask for a permit for the work obviously being performed, and when it cannot be produced, the entire project gets shut down, violations issued, and permit costs doubled. If anything goes wrong with not just the work itself, but injuries or damages caused or related to the work, and it is discovered you did not pull permits, you as the contractor could get in serious trouble, including fines and even losing your license to operate. Do not risk it, get the permits, always.

You might not always be able to avoid lawsuits, but following the above basic guidelines will give you the best chance at succeeding in Court.]]></content>
						        </entry>
	        <entry>
            <author>
									                    <name>On Behalf of ViKing Law</name>
				            </author>
            <title type="html"><![CDATA[What to do before hiring a contractor for your home renovation]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.viking-law.com/blog/2024/05/what-to-do-before-hiring-a-contractor-for-your-home-renovation/" />
            <id>https://www.viking-law.com/?p=46707</id>
            <updated>2024-09-26T15:30:59Z</updated>
            <published>2024-05-15T15:40:23Z</published>
					<taxo:topics><![CDATA[-]]></taxo:topics>
            <summary type="html"><![CDATA[I have far too many clients coming to me after a contractor screwed them over, wondering what they can do to fix it, not having the money to fix not only the construction, but also pay the lawyer to get their money back.  I don’t care if it is deck, a bathroom renovation, or basement buildout, here are the things…]]></summary>
			                <content type="html" xml:base="https://www.viking-law.com/blog/2024/05/what-to-do-before-hiring-a-contractor-for-your-home-renovation/"><![CDATA[I have far too many clients coming to me after a contractor screwed them over, wondering what they can do to fix it, not having the money to fix not only the construction, but also pay the lawyer to get their money back.  I don’t care if it is deck, a bathroom renovation, or basement buildout, here are the things you MUST to do to protect yourself when hiring a contractor:
<ol>
 	<li><strong>NEVER pay full price, or even more than 50%, up front. </strong></li>
</ol>
If a contractor asks you to pay fill price for the entire job up front, run.  Too many times I have seem contractors take off with the money never to return, or show up for a day, do a half-assed job, then jump around to other projects for weeks or months, leaving the project incomplete.  A great way to divide payments and ensure both parties are happy with the work is to divide it into thirds: 1/3 up front, 1/3 half way, remaining 1/3 after completion.
<ol start="2">
 	<li><strong>Make sure they have insurance, and ask them for a Certificate of Liability Insurance that names you as an additional insured before work begins</strong>.</li>
</ol>
A contractor that does not have insurance and causes a problem in your home is bad; a contractor that does not have insurance gets injured in your home, or invites another subcontractor in who gets injured in your home, is a living nightmare.  Never permit any contractor to perform any work on your property without ensuring they have insurance, and that their insurance will cover you in the event of an incident or injury while they are performing work on your property.
<ol start="3">
 	<li><strong>Make sure they are registered as a PA Home Improvement Contractor. </strong></li>
</ol>
Pennsylvania has a Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act which requires any contractor making at least $5,000 a year from home improvements to register with the Attorney General’s Office.  Performing any home improvement work without being registered leads to fines and allows the homeowner to recover 100% of anything paid for the work.  It also has very specific parameters for information that is required to be contained within the written contract for work, and failure to abide by the terms of the Act can also lead to fines and recovery of money paid (i.e. a minimum of insurance coverage for you for the work, and completion date specified within the contract).

To check if your contractor is registered under the Act, visit; <a href="https://hicsearch.attorneygeneral.gov/" data-wpel-link="external" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Home Improvement Contractor Search (attorneygeneral.gov)</a>
<ol start="4">
 	<li><strong>Ask if they will be using subcontractors, and then find out exactly who those subcontractors are. </strong></li>
</ol>
It’s great you hired the contractor with fancy business cards, folders, pictures, websites, and truck lettering that’s been around forever and everyone else was happy with.  But is the person who sold you the construction work the person that is actually performing the work?  For larger companies, chances are the answer is no.  Their business model includes making money for projects from you while paying the workers less money to do the actual work.  This permits them to make more money with simultaneous projects.  Some of the people that show up might have their own companies and not even work for the company you hired, or worse, not even have a company, license, or experience.  If your company is bringing in a subcontractor, follow all of the above steps to ensure that subcontractor knows what <em>they</em> are doing as well.
<ol start="5">
 	<li><strong>Make sure they are responsible for pulling permits and actually doing it. </strong></li>
</ol>
Too many times I have seen townships walk into someone’s home, ask for a permit for the work obviously being performed, and when it cannot be produced, the entire project gets shut down, violations issued, and permit costs doubled.  In worse case scenarios, the contractor tries to blame the homeowner for not obtaining the permit for work that, in most cases, the homeowner did not even know they needed a permit for, much less how to obtain a permit.  And stay away from the winks on avoiding the “extra costs” for permits – resale of your home will be miserable if you did not get the permits you needed originally, and having a township inspector check your contractor’s work should be a welcome second glance by a professional to ensure the work you paid for was done safely.  GET THE PERMITS.
<ol start="6">
 	<li><strong>Read that Contract. </strong></li>
</ol>
Read it.  Read whatever protections they give themselves if something goes wrong.  Do not agree to anything with terms saying you agree to “indemnify and defend” the contractor for anything, and do not agree to anything that specifies jurisdiction for your lawsuit is in another state or location then where your work is being performed.  Filing a lawsuit to get your money back in CA when you live in PA is cost prohibitive to you, and they know that.

Do your homework with contractors.  Do not rely solely upon the social media adds or reviews.  It is far easier to get a flashy website and purchase positive online reviews these days than it is to actually do the work correctly.  And if you have a problem with the contractor’s work, call ViKing Law.]]></content>
						        </entry>
	        <entry>
            <author>
									                    <name>On Behalf of ViKing Law</name>
				            </author>
            <title type="html"><![CDATA[Construction safety issues in Philadelphia]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="https://www.viking-law.com/blog/2024/02/12-lessons-from-a-crumbling-city/" />
            <id>https://www.viking-law.com/?p=46681</id>
            <updated>2024-09-26T15:31:07Z</updated>
            <published>2024-02-09T08:06:16Z</published>
					<taxo:topics><![CDATA[-]]></taxo:topics>
            <summary type="html"><![CDATA[As a law firm working with many construction safety-related cases, we were very interested to read The Philadelphia Inquirer’s article about construction oversight in the city. We recommend anyone living in the city and considering construction work to read this article, and if you have any issues yourself, please contact us at to see how we can help.]]></summary>
			                <content type="html" xml:base="https://www.viking-law.com/blog/2024/02/12-lessons-from-a-crumbling-city/"><![CDATA[As a law firm working with many construction safety-related cases, we were very interested to read <a href="https://www.inquirer.com/real-estate/inq2/philadelphia-rowhomes-construction-destruction-takeaways-20240129.html" data-wpel-link="external" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Philadelphia Inquirer's article</a> about construction oversight in the city. We recommend anyone living in the city and considering construction work to read this article, and if you have any issues yourself, please contact us at [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-1"] to see how we can help.]]></content>
						        </entry>
	</feed>