How Much is Your Dog Bite Lawsuit Worth?

Oct 20,2017

If you are injured in a dog attack, what kind of compensation can you expect from a dog bite lawsuit?

The average dog bite claim in the U.S. is $32,072. Each year, dog bite claims constitute $530 million in insurance costs. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), the number of claims has decreased in recent years, but the cost of an average claim has risen. In fact, the average cost per dog bite claim rose 15% from 2013 to 2014.

How are Damages from a Dog Bite Calculated?

While these figures are helpful to know, it is important to understand that each claim is different. Your unique situation will dictate how your damages will be determined. The factors that will be taken into account are your past and future medical expenses, lost wages and/or loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, disfigurement and disability.

Dog bite claims are generally paid by homeowner’s insurance. Thus, limits of the defendant’s policy will likely limit the amount of compensation that is awarded.

Factors that Can Increase Value of the Case

Physical disfigurement and scarring usually increase the amount of pain and suffering a jury will assign in a dog bite lawsuit. Age and gender can also play a role. Child victims might be awarded more for the years of emotional suffering and PTSD they may face after the attack. Female victims with severe scars might also receive higher compensation for pain and suffering. Someone with extensive injury that will require long-term medical care might also receive more compensation.

“If you have suffered a dog bite, don’t hesitate to give our offices a call to have your case assessed,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured in a dog attack and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.