A dog attack is traumatic and can leave lasting physical and emotional scars. If someone's pet injured you, the owner is typically liable. Learn what compensation you may be entitled to.
Expert information to help you understand your rights and options
Dog bite claims can recover compensation for medical treatment, scarring, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma. Liability rules vary by state—some impose strict liability while others require proving owner negligence. Learn about dog bite lawsuits and holding owners accountable.
Dog bite liability rules differ dramatically between states—strict liability, one-bite rules, and negligence standards each affect your claim differently. Knowing your state law is essential. Find your state dog bite rules and how they affect owner liability.
One-bite rule states require proving dog owners knew or should have known their dogs were dangerous before imposing liability. Evidence of prior aggression becomes critical. Learn about one-bite rule claims and proving dangerous propensities.
Strict liability states hold dog owners responsible for bite injuries regardless of whether they knew the dog was dangerous. Victims need only prove the dog bit them. Learn about strict liability dog bite claims and states that apply this rule.
Dog bite settlements depend on injury severity, scarring, psychological impact, and available insurance. Facial injuries and child victims typically receive higher compensation. Understand dog bite settlement factors and evaluating your case value.
Dog owners may defend against claims by arguing victims provoked the attack through teasing, abuse, or entering the dog space aggressively. Provocation can reduce or eliminate liability. Learn about provocation defenses and overcoming these arguments.
Dog bites cause puncture wounds, lacerations, crushing injuries, and infections including rabies risk. Prompt medical treatment is essential. Learn about dog bite medical issues, infection risks, and documenting injuries for your claim.
Dog bites frequently cause permanent scarring and disfigurement, especially facial injuries. Scar revision and plastic surgery may be needed. Learn about scarring compensation, treatment costs, and documenting permanent disfigurement damages.
Dog attack victims often develop PTSD, anxiety, and fear of dogs that significantly impact quality of life. Psychological trauma is a compensable damage separate from physical injuries. Learn about emotional distress claims in dog bite cases.
Many insurers exclude or surcharge coverage for breeds deemed dangerous—pit bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, and others. Breed exclusions affect whether insurance will pay claims. Understand breed restrictions and their impact on your claim.
Homeowners insurance typically covers dog bite liability, but some policies exclude certain breeds or dogs with prior bite history. Coverage determines available compensation. Learn about insurance coverage for dog bites and policy limitations.
Dog bite claims face strict filing deadlines that vary by state—typically 2-3 years from the attack. Child victims may have extended deadlines. Missing limitations bars your claim. Learn applicable deadlines for your dog bite case.
In negligence-based dog bite claims, you must prove the owner failed to properly control or contain their dog. Evidence includes leash law violations, inadequate fencing, and prior complaints. Learn how to prove owner negligence in dog attack cases.
Children are the most frequent and vulnerable dog bite victims, often suffering facial injuries and severe trauma. Child claims involve longer statutes of limitations and special damage considerations. Learn about child dog bite claims and protecting young victims.
Landlords may be liable for tenant dog bites when they knew of dangerous dogs and had power to remove them. Breed restrictions in leases and prior complaints create landlord knowledge. Learn about landlord liability for tenant dog attacks.