Published by Dog bite settlements have risen dramatically in recent years, with the average claim reaching $69,272 in 2024—more than double the $32,100 average from just a decade earlier. In 2024 alone, insurers paid out a record $1.57 billion for 22,658 dog-related injury claims across the United States.
While settlement amounts typically range from $30,000 to $100,000, depending on injury severity, individual cases can vary significantly based on factors such as the extent of injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, emotional trauma, state liability laws, and available insurance coverage. Understanding how to negotiate an effective dog bite settlement requires knowledge of the Dunbar Bite Scale classification system, state-specific liability laws, and the various factors that influence compensation amounts for both economic and non-economic damages.
Types of Dog Bites
The Dunbar Bite Scale divides dog bites into 6 levels:
Level 1: Aggressive but no skin contact - The dog is aggressive, showing its teeth, snapping and growling, and possibly snagging clothing, without actually making contact with the victim’s skin.
Level 2: Teeth make contact, but do not break the skin - The dog’s teeth may leave a mark, but don’t break the skin.
Level 3: A single bite with shallow wounds - The dog's teeth break the victim's skin and leave bloody marks behind. A level 3 dog bite is a severe injury that requires immediate medical attention.
Level 4: A single bite with deep wounds - A bite with 1 to 4 perforations deeper than half the length of the dog’s tooth.
Level 5: Multiple bites with deep wounds - Similar bites to Level 4, but in this case multiple bites occur. Dogs responsible for Level 5 bites are typically considered dangerous dogs.
Level 6: Death of victim and/or flesh consumed - A dog reaches Level 6 when their attack has resulted in the death of the victim, or if they have consumed flesh from the victim. Dogs who commit Level 6 bites are not safe to be around humans or even other dogs.
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What is the Time Frame for Settling a Dog Bite Lawsuit?
It can take a considerable amount of time to settle your dog bite case if you want to receive full compensation for your claim. You should not agree to the insurance company’s offer until you have spoken with an experienced dog bite lawyer.
However, once you agree on a settlement, it will take about 4 to 6 weeks to get your check. It could take even longer if the insurer delays completing the final steps in the settlement process. They could lag in ordering the check, require excessive levels of approval before payment, or only issue checks on certain days of the month.
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Current Dog Bite Settlement Trends (2024-2026)
The landscape of dog bite settlements has undergone significant changes in recent years, with 2024 marking a pivotal year for victim compensation. According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average cost per dog bite claim reached $69,272 in 2024, representing an 18% increase from 2023's average of $58,545 and an 82.5% increase since 2014. This dramatic rise reflects not only escalating medical costs but also growing recognition of the psychological trauma associated with dog attacks. In 2024, a total of 22,658 dog-related injury claims were filed nationwide, marking a 19% increase from 2023 and a 48% rise over the past decade.
States with the highest average settlements include New York ($110,488 per claim), Pennsylvania ($88,700), and California ($86,229), while states following the "one-bite rule" like Texas tend to have lower averages ranging from $40,000 to $150,000 for severe injuries. The total payout for dog bite claims reached a historic $1.57 billion in 2024, underscoring the substantial financial impact of these incidents on both insurance companies and dog owners.
If You or a Loved One was the Victim of a Dog Bite
Regardless of the type of dog bite you were the victim of, you should be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Dog bite lawsuits are complex and emotional, depending on the severity of the injury, liability laws where the bite happened, the applicable statute of limitations (SOL), as well as a variety of other factors.
When researching who to hire for a dog bite claim, be sure the attorney is experienced in this area of litigation, with the necessary staff and resources to recover just compensation for your injuries.
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FAQs
1. What Types of Damages Can Be Recovered in a Dog Bite Settlement?
Victims can recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and sometimes punitive damages, depending on the severity and circumstances of the incident.
2. Do I Need a Lawyer to Negotiate a Dog Bite Settlement?
While not legally required, having a lawyer can significantly improve your chances of securing a fair settlement by navigating legal complexities and negotiating with insurance companies effectively.
3. How Is Liability Determined in Dog Bite Cases?
Liability in dog bite cases is typically determined by state laws, which may consider the owner's negligence, the dog's history, and whether the victim provoked the dog or trespassed.
Get a Free Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
The Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers focusing on plaintiffs' representation in lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new legal challenges in all 50 states.
If you or a loved one was involved with such matters, you should contact Schmidt & Clark, LLP immediately for a free case evaluation. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.