Dog bites can lead to painful injuries, emotional trauma, and unexpected medical expenses. In California, dog owners are typically held strictly liable when their dog bites someone meaning you don’t need to prove negligence to pursue compensation.

At Hillstone Law, we help victims of dog attacks understand their rights and recover the full amount they’re entitled to. Here’s everything you need to know about how much you can sue for after a dog bite injury.

Who Pays for Dog Bite Injuries?

Although the dog owner is legally responsible, it’s usually their homeowners’ or renters’ insurance that pays the damages. If the owner is uninsured or lacks sufficient assets, it may be more difficult to recover compensation, so it’s important to assess whether pursuing a lawsuit is financially worthwhile.

How Much Compensation Can You Get for a Dog Bite?

The amount you can recover depends on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the economic losses you’ve suffered. While minor bites may result in smaller settlements, serious or permanent injuries can lead to six-figure awards.

Average Settlement Ranges

• Mild injuries: $15,000 – $45,000
• Visible scarring or disfigurement: $100,000+
• Permanent disability or long-term medical care: $200,000+
• Psychological injuries (e.g., PTSD): varies based on treatment

Each case is different, but most settlements cover:

• Emergency room visits and surgeries
• Ongoing medical treatment
• Lost income or reduced earning capacity
• Emotional distress and pain and suffering
• Property damage (e.g., torn clothing or broken glasses)

Pain and Suffering Compensation

In addition to medical bills, victims can pursue non-economic damages for pain and suffering. These are based on:

• The intensity and duration of physical pain
• Emotional trauma (e.g., anxiety, fear of dogs)
• Loss of enjoyment of life or physical limitations
• Impact on daily functioning or relationships

There’s no fixed formula, but your attorney can negotiate a fair amount based on your injuries and how they’ve affected your life.

Can You File in Small Claims Court?

Yes, you can file a dog bite case in small claims court typically for injuries valued under $10,000 (amounts vary by state/county). However, you’ll be responsible for:

• Gathering evidence
• Presenting your own case
• Attending all court dates
• Negotiating on your own behalf

If your injuries are severe or your medical bills are rising, it’s often wiser to consult a personal injury lawyer who can pursue full compensation and handle negotiations on your behalf.

What If the Dog Owner Has No Insurance?

If the dog owner is uninsured and has no assets, collecting a judgment may be difficult. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pursue a claim. Sometimes liability can extend to landlords or third parties who failed to prevent the attack.

An experienced attorney at Hillstone Law can evaluate the viability of your claim and identify all potential sources of compensation.

Should You File a Lawsuit After a Dog Bite?

After a dog bite, emotions can run high. You may feel angry or want to hold the owner accountable but it’s important to consider the long-term impact of your injuries. Some bite injuries worsen over time, and symptoms may not appear immediately.

That’s why we recommend:

1. Seeking medical care immediately
2. Documenting the incident thoroughly
3. Consulting a dog bite attorney before making any decisions

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Claims in California?

In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims including dog bites is generally two years from the date of the injury. If you wait too long to file a lawsuit, you may lose your right to compensation entirely.

Talk to a Dog Bite Lawyer at Hillstone Law

If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, you may be entitled to significant compensation especially if you’ve suffered serious injuries, disfigurement, or emotional trauma.

Let Hillstone Law evaluate your case, protect your rights, and help you secure the maximum compensation available under California law.

Schedule a free consultation today and speak with a skilled personal injury attorney.