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Average Dog Bite Settlement in California

Determining the average dog bite settlement in California is difficult because every case is different. Recoverable awards will vary based on numerous factors, including the severity of your injury. A California dog bite lawyer can identify your losses and pursue the maximum compensation possible. 

How Much Is a California Dog Bite Claim Worth? 

According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), California had the highest number of dog bite insurance claims in the country in 2023, with 2,104. These claims amounted to $143.3 million in settlements, making the average dog bite settlement in California around $68,000 per claim.

Of course, not all injured parties received this amount of money. The value of an individual claim can vary widely based on factors unique to each case. Variables that can affect dog bite settlements in California include:

  • The victim’s age
  • The victim’s income and time missed from work due to injury
  • The severity of the injury and extent of the necessary medical treatment
  • Whether or not the victim sustained a permanent or disabling injury
  • The physical, mental, and emotional effects of the dog bite
  • How the injury interferes with the victim’s daily life, future, and ability to earn a living

Damages You Can Pursue for a Dog Bite Injury

Again, every dog bite case is different, and your recoverable awards will depend on the damages you suffered. In general, a dog bite settlement in California may include compensation for:

  • Medical bills – including emergency transportation and treatment, surgeries, hospitalizations and doctor visits, prescription medications, and physical therapy
  • Lost income –  including lost wages from time missed at work, lost employment benefits, and lost future earning capacity if your injury prevents you from returning to your job
  • Pain and suffering – including monetary awards for scarring, disfigurement, loss of mobility, physical pain, mental anguish, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an average of 43 people die every year from dog bites and dog attack injuries. If your loved one was fatally wounded, you can pursue damages through a wrongful death lawsuit. Qualifying survivors may seek compensation for funeral and burial expenses and the loss of their loved one’s services, support, guidance, and financial contributions.  

Financial Liability for Dog Bites in California

California law holds dog owners “strictly liable” for dog bite injuries. CCP § 3342 states that a dog owner is financially responsible if their pet bites someone who is lawfully on public or private property, including the dog owner’s property. Strict liability applies whether or not the owner knew or should have known of the dog’s viciousness. Victims also do not need to prove the owner acted negligently. 

There are exceptions to an owner’s dog bite liability. Owners may not be strictly liable if:

  • The victim was trespassing on private property when bitten.
  • The victim provoked the dog.
  • The victim was bitten by a police or military dog that was performing law enforcement work or defending someone.

Owners also are not liable for any animal attack injuries other than bites. So, for example, if you fell and broke your wrist while a dog was chasing you, you would need to prove that the owner was negligent to recover damages. 

Time Limits for Filing a Dog Bite Case

Homeowners and renters insurance policies usually cover dog bite settlements up to the policy’s limits. If the dog’s owner is insured, you should file your claim immediately to avoid missing policy deadlines. 

If the dog owner does not have insurance or the insurer is refusing to negotiate in good faith, you can file a dog bite lawsuit. Per CCP § 335.1, you have two years to file a personal injury case in California. If you fail to file within the statute of limitations, the court will likely bar you from taking legal action. 

Can a Dog Bite Lawyer Increase Your Compensation? 

Working with a California dog bite lawyer does not guarantee you will receive more compensation. However, hiring an attorney can give you a knowledgeable legal ally who can help build a solid claim, identify and pursue all your losses, and ensure you do not leave money on the table. 

In addition, a lawyer can handle case details while you focus on your recovery. Your attorney can:

  • Investigate the dog bite incident and establish that the dog’s owner owes you compensation
  • Defend you from allegations aimed at negating the owner’s liability (such as accusations that you provoked the animal)
  • Prove owner negligence if necessary
  • Identify and pursue all of your damages
  • Prepare and file insurance claims
  • Aggressively negotiate with the insurance company for the maximum possible dog bite settlement
  • File a personal injury lawsuit and represent you in civil court if necessary, including taking your case to trial if needed

What to Do if a Dog Bites You In California

According to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), you should report dog bites to your local animal control agency. The agency can ensure the dog is healthy, up to date on vaccinations, and does not have rabies. Reporting will also create an official record of the incident for your insurance claim or lawsuit. 

To protect your health after a dog bite, you should:

  • Thoroughly clean the wound
  • Slow any bleeding
  • Apply antibacterial ointment and wrap the wound in clean bandages
  • Monitor for signs of infection, including swelling, redness, pain, or fever
  • See a doctor immediately if signs of infection occur 

Contact a California Dog Bite Lawyer at the KJT Law Group

At KJT Law Group, we Practice the Art of Law. We have served clients across California for over 10 years, recovering over $100 million for injured parties and their families. If a dog bit you or someone you love, our dog bite attorneys can fight for the maximum dog bite settlement possible. 

We are here to offer you personalized legal representation tailored to your needs, concerns, and goals. We serve clients in English, Spanish, and Armenian. Contact us online or call today for a free case evaluation

We Will Fight For You

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