Dog Bite Settlement Calculator

Dog bite damages include medical costs, lost wages, compensation for scarring and disfigurement, and pain and suffering. Child victims typically receive higher compensation due to the greater psychological impact of scarring and their longer life expectancy. Facial injuries are the highest-value category.

Average U.S. dog bite insurance settlements are around $50,000–$60,000. Serious bites requiring surgery, causing permanent scarring, or involving child victims frequently settle for $100,000–$300,000. Disfiguring facial injuries can exceed $500,000 in serious cases.

Dog bite statutes of limitations generally follow personal injury rules — 2–3 years in most states from the date of the bite. However, claims against government entities (such as police dog incidents) typically require notice within 60–180 days, significantly shortening your window.

In most states, no. Over 30 states have enacted strict liability statutes holding dog owners responsible for bites regardless of prior behavior. Even in 'one-bite' states, evidence of prior aggression or the owner's knowledge of dangerous propensities significantly strengthens your case and increases its value.