Last Updated on March 1, 2025 by Dogs Vets
A dog bite injury can be a very traumatic experience. Victims are often left with wounds, emotional distress, and medical bills. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), around 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs every year in the country. Out of these, over 800,000 victims end up seeking medical attention.
These cases can lead to very serious complications like infection, nerve damage, and even lifelong scars. If you or your loved one has faced such a fate, consult experienced dog bite lawyers to help you understand your legal options, which include the following:
1. Filing a Homeowner’s Insurance Claim
Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover dog bites but the coverage varies from one company to another. The standard policy liability limit is typically between $100,000 and $300,000.
When filing a homeowner’s claim, there are some important steps to take:
- Get enough evidence, including photographs, to document how severe the attack was. This also includes witness statements.
- Seek medical attention, but keep records of all treatments, prescriptions, and other related expenses.
- Report the incident to animal control and law enforcement to have an official record of the accident.
- Ask for the owner’s insurance information to read the terms of the policy.
- File a claim with the insurance company and submit all the evidence.
- Work with adjusters, as they have to investigate the claim and offer settlement according to their findings.
- Negotiate the compensation if necessary.
You don’t have to go through all these lengthy processes alone. A dog bite lawyer can handle all these technicalities as you focus on healing.
2. File a Personal Injury Lawsuit
A lawsuit may be necessary if the homeowner doesn’t have insurance, the policy doesn’t cover the full settlement, or when the insurers refuse to offer fair compensation.
In states with strict liability laws, dog owners are automatically responsible for bites regardless of their dog’s history. For negligence-based states, you must prove that the owner was negligent in controlling the dog. Some states allow owners to argue that the victim provoked the attack or was trespassing.
A successful lawsuit can compensate for:
- Medical bills, from emergency costs to future expenses.
- Lost wages if your injuries prevented you from working either temporarily or permanently.
- Pain and suffering, including the scars left, disfigurement in worse cases, and the long-term emotional effects.
3. Negotiating a Settlement
In several cases, dog owners or insurance companies may offer to compensate without the case going to trial. Settlements are quicker and reduce any legal expenses.
When negotiating settlements, make sure that you calculate your damages, from physical to emotional damages like pain and suffering. Make a demand letter stating your injuries, treatment, and the amount you wish to receive.
Negotiate openly even after insurers give a counteroffer until you reach a reasonable amount. If negotiations fail, consider mediation.
Conclusion
Seeking justice after a dog bite injury can be complex. Many victims often don’t understand what to do next, which can push them into accepting low offers or foregoing the claim altogether. If you are unsure about the best step to take, consult an attorney to guide you through the process.
