Resources

Yes, you can generally make a claim after a dog bite even if the dog belongs to someone you know. In most cases, compensation comes from the owner’s homeowners or renters insurance rather than from their own pocket. It is also important to understand that making a claim does not necessarily mean taking the dog … Read more

You do not have to accept a dog bite settlement offer. A first offer is normally a starting point rather than the insurer’s final position, and rejecting it or asking questions about it is a routine part of the process. Before you respond, do not sign the release form and do not deposit any check … Read more

In most cases, you pay your medical bills through your own health insurance, and the dog owner’s insurance repays those costs later as part of a settlement. Below, we explain who pays now, what the dog owner’s insurance covers, what to do if you cannot afford the bills, and how everything is repaid once your … Read more

A dog bite can be especially upsetting when it happens to your child. While you’re focused on helping them recover, you may also have questions about what their claim could be worth and what happens to any settlement. Below, we explain what can affect the value of a child’s claim, how the settlement process works, … Read more

In most cases homeowners insurance does cover dog bites. Renters insurance usually works the same way. Below, we explain which parts of a policy pay, how much money is usually available, when coverage does not apply, and what to do if the owner turns out to have no insurance. The Two Parts of a Policy … Read more

How long a dog bite settlement takes depends mostly on two things: how serious the injury is and whether anyone disputes who was at fault. A minor bite with a cooperative dog owner may settle in a few months, while a more serious injury usually takes several months to a year or longer. Below, we … Read more

If you were bitten by a dog and want to make a claim, gathering the right evidence is one of the most important steps. A strong claim is usually built using medical records, an animal control report, photographs of your injuries, and other documents that support what happened. Below, we explain what counts as evidence … Read more

After a dog bite, prioritize getting to safety first and seeking medical care. Once you are safe and have received treatment, it is worth understanding your legal options, since you may be owed compensation. Below, we walk you through what to do step by step, so you can protect both your health and your claim. … Read more

In most states, the dog’s owner is automatically at fault when a bite happens. This usually applies as long as you were lawfully present and did not provoke the dog. A smaller group of states only holds the owner responsible if they knew the dog was dangerous. Below, you can check your state, see what … Read more

Not every dog bite case requires hiring a lawyer. If your injury was minor and the dog owner’s insurer is paying fairly, you may be able to handle the claim yourself. However, it’s always worth getting a free case review from a dog bite lawyer, as they can often tell you if your case may … Read more