The aftermath of a dog bite can be both painful and expensive. Medical bills can pile up quickly—often, this includes not just initial treatment but also ongoing costs for physical therapy, potential surgeries, and psychological counseling. You may even be experiencing lost wages or property damage, like ripped clothing or a damaged bike.
Fortunately, there is a way to alleviate this financial burden: by filing a dog bite claim. That said, as dog bite lawyers, we understand that this process can feel pretty opaque for those who’ve never navigated the legal system before. It’s natural for victims to wonder, “What kind of compensation can I expect? Is it really worth the trouble and stress?”
Let’s break down the factors that influence the potential value of your dog bite settlement and explore your options for getting the justice you or a loved one deserves.
What Is the Average Compensation for a Dog Bite Claim?
According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average insurance payout is $64,555 per dog bite claim as of 2022. Nationwide, insurance companies paid out $1.13 billion in dog bite claims that year.
While these figures may seem substantial, victims can reach far beyond these averages with the help of experienced legal counsel. For example, at Slater & Zurz, we’ve helped a family secure a life-changing $1,000,000 settlement in a dog bite case, providing them with the resources for ongoing care, therapy, and other long-term needs.
So, what can you expect for your dog bite claim? Several factors influence the final compensation, including:
- The severity of your injuries: More severe injuries typically lead to higher compensation.
- Medical expenses: This includes past, present, and future medical costs, surgeries, medications, and therapy.
- Lost wages: If your dog bite injury caused you to miss work, you can claim compensation for lost income.
- Pain and suffering: This accounts for the physical and emotional distress you’ve experienced.
- Other damages: Depending on your specific situation, you might also be entitled to compensation for disfigurement, scarring, or reduced earning capacity.
- Insurance coverage: The dog owner’s insurance policy limits can affect the amount of compensation available.
- Jurisdiction and local laws: Different states have varying laws regarding dog bite liability and damages.
How to Maximize Your Dog Bite Settlement Amount
While knowing the average settlement amount can provide a general idea, remember that your specific situation determines the ultimate value of your claim.
Here are some tips to help you maximize your potential dog bite settlement amount:
- Don’t settle too quickly: As dog bite lawyers, we’ve seen way too many scenarios where insurance adjusters offer victims a quick settlement that’s significantly lower than what they deserve. Take the time to understand the full extent of your injuries and losses before accepting any offer.
- Document everything: Thoroughly document your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
- Seek medical attention: Even minor-looking bites can lead to complications. Proper medical care is crucial for your health and can strengthen your claim.
- Consider future costs: Think beyond immediate expenses. Factor in potential future medical treatments, lost earning capacity, and pain and suffering.
- Consult with an attorney: An experienced dog bite lawyer can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and negotiate for maximum compensation.
At Slater & Zurz, we’ve handled countless dog bite cases, including one where an eight-year-old boy tragically lost the tip of his nose. Despite the initial medical expenses of $8,000, we successfully helped the family secure a $230,000 settlement.
Don’t let an insurance company dictate the value of your dog bite settlement. We’re here to help you recover the maximum compensation you deserve — that’s why you’ll also pay nothing unless we win. Contact us at 330-762-0700 today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much is a dog bite lawsuit worth?
- As of 2022, the average insurance payout is $64,555 per dog bite claim. However, factors like the severity of injuries, medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering will significantly impact the final settlement amount.
- Who pays for a dog bite?
- Generally, the dog owner is responsible for damages caused by their dog. This is known as strict liability in many states, including Ohio. However, they don’t usually pay these expenses out of pocket; instead, these costs are often covered by their homeowner’s insurance
- How long do dog bite claims take?
- The timeline for a dog bite claim depends on the severity of injuries, insurance involvement, and whether the case settles or goes to trial. While some cases resolve quickly, others can take months or even years. Consulting with an attorney can help streamline the process and provide a better estimate of the timeline for your specific case.
- Will health insurance pay for a dog bite?
- Yes, health insurance typically covers medical expenses related to dog bites. Just like any other injury, you’ll need to meet your deductible before coverage kicks in. Make sure to document all medical expenses and provide them to your insurance provider.
