Meet our Dog Bite Attorneys

If you’ve been bitten by a dog, it’s important to take immediate and thoughtful actions to protect your health, your safety, and your legal rights. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do after a dog bite incident:

1. Ensure Your Safety

Immediately move away from the dog to prevent further harm. If the dog seems aggressive or is still a threat, try to retreat calmly and avoid sudden movements.

2. Seek Medical Attention

Wash the bite area with soap and water as soon as possible to reduce the risk of infection. After cleaning, apply an antiseptic to prevent infection. Use a clean bandage to protect the wound from further contamination.

Even if the bite seems minor, it’s important to get medical attention. Dog bites can lead to infections, diseases like rabies, or other complications.

If the bite is deep, bleeding heavily, or showing signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus), seek emergency care.

A doctor will assess the risk of rabies and other infections and may recommend a tetanus shot or rabies vaccination, depending on the circumstances.

3. Identify the Dog and Its Owner

Try to obtain the dog’s name, breed, and vaccination records (especially rabies). Ask the dog owner for this information. If the dog is a stray, contact animal control to ensure it is properly handled.

Record the location, time, and circumstances of the attack, including any witnesses. Take pictures of your injuries and the surrounding environment to document the scene.

4. Report the Incident

In many areas, dog bites must be reported to animal control or local law enforcement. This helps ensure the dog is properly quarantined (especially if rabies is a concern) and allows authorities to investigate the incident.

If the attack occurred on private property, the owner may be liable for damages. If the dog was stray or aggressive, reporting the incident can help prevent future attacks.

5. Preserve Evidence

Document your injuries as soon as possible with photos that clearly show the extent of the damage.

If there were any witnesses to the incident, ask for their contact information and their account of what happened.

6. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney at Morgan & Morgan

If you’re seriously injured or facing complications, it’s a good idea to consult a personal injury attorney who specializes in dog bite cases. They can help you understand your rights and whether you are entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

A lawyer can help determine if the dog’s owner is liable for your injuries and if any insurance policies (like homeowners insurance) may cover the damages.

7. Follow Up With Medical Care

Make sure to attend any follow-up appointments and complete any prescribed treatments, including vaccines or antibiotics.

Keep an eye on the wound for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus. If the condition worsens, seek medical attention right away.

8. Consider Post-Traumatic Stress

Dog bites can be traumatic, especially if the attack was severe or unexpected. It’s important to acknowledge any emotional or psychological effects, such as fear or anxiety around dogs, and consider seeking counseling or therapy if needed.

Taking these steps will help you manage the immediate aftermath of a dog bite, protect your health, and ensure that you have the information necessary to pursue any legal claims if appropriate.

Dog bite liability laws can vary significantly from state to state. Here are some common approaches to how different states handle dog bite liability:

Strict Liability

In some states, a dog owner can be held strictly liable for injuries caused by their dog, regardless of whether the dog had a history of aggression or if the owner was negligent. Typically, this means that if a dog bites someone, the owner is automatically responsible for damages.

California is an example of a state that follows strict liability for dog bites. The state’s law holds dog owners liable for injuries caused by their dog, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.

One-Bite Rule

Some states follow the "one-bite rule," which means that a dog owner can only be held liable if they knew or should have known that the dog had dangerous tendencies or a history of aggression. If the dog has bitten someone before or exhibited aggression, the owner can be held responsible for subsequent bites.

New York is an example of a state that follows this rule, where the dog must have shown previous signs of aggression for the owner to be liable.

Negligence

Many states also allow a dog bite victim to file a claim based on the owner's negligence. If the owner was not exercising proper control of the dog or failed to prevent the attack in some other way, they can be held liable.

Florida, for instance, allows a victim to claim negligence against the dog owner if the owner failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the dog from attacking.

Contributory or Comparative Negligence

In some states, the dog owner may be able to argue that the victim was partially responsible for the bite, for example, by provoking the dog. States that apply comparative negligence will allow the victim to still recover damages, but the amount may be reduced by their percentage of fault.

Texas follows comparative negligence laws, meaning the victim’s actions can affect the outcome of a case.

Leash Laws

Many states have laws requiring that dogs be kept on a leash or under control when in public. In states with leash laws, an owner can be held liable for a dog bite if the dog was off-leash in violation of local ordinances, even if the dog has never exhibited prior aggression.

Illinois has various local ordinances that require dogs to be kept on a leash or confined within an enclosure.

Dangerous Dog Laws

Some states have specific statutes regarding dangerous or vicious dogs. If a dog has been declared dangerous or vicious, the owner may face heightened liability for any subsequent bites, regardless of the circumstances.

Ohio has laws that define what constitutes a dangerous dog and imposes strict penalties for owners whose dogs are found to be dangerous.

State-specific dog bite laws can be complex, so it’s important for victims to consult legal experts familiar with local regulations when dealing with a dog bite case.

Dog bites can result in a variety of injuries, ranging from minor scratches to serious wounds. The severity of the injury often depends on the size and breed of the dog, the location of the bite, and how much force the dog used. Here are some common injuries that can result from a dog bite:

Puncture Wounds

A puncture wound occurs when the dog's teeth penetrate the skin, creating a hole or small wound. These are common with bites and can be deep, increasing the risk of infection.

Puncture wounds can introduce bacteria deep into the body, leading to infection if not properly treated.

Lacerations (Cuts)

A laceration is a tear or deep cut in the skin caused by the dog’s teeth or claws. These wounds may be jagged or straight, depending on how the dog bites.

Lacerations may require stitches to close, especially if they are deep or bleeding heavily. They can also leave scars.

Abrasions

Abrasions are superficial injuries that occur when the dog’s teeth scrape across the skin without penetrating deeply.

While not usually as severe as lacerations, abrasions can still become infected if not cleaned properly.

Bruising

In addition to bites, a dog may also cause bruising by biting or striking with force. Bruises are caused by internal bleeding under the skin and are typically not as serious as cuts or punctures.

Bruising can be painful and may take some time to heal, though it typically doesn’t require medical treatment unless there’s significant swelling or pain.

Infections

Dog bites can introduce bacteria into the body, leading to infections like cellulitis, tetanus, or more severe infections like necrotizing fasciitis (a flesh-eating disease).

Infections can make the wound more painful and increase the risk of long-term complications, including scarring or the spread of infection to other parts of the body.

Nerve Damage

A dog bite can cause damage to nerves, leading to symptoms like numbness, tingling, or even paralysis in the affected area.

Nerve damage may require surgery to repair, and in some cases, it can result in long-term or permanent loss of sensation or mobility.

Tendon and Muscle Damage

Deep bites can damage tendons or muscles, particularly in areas like the hands, arms, or legs, where muscles and tendons are more exposed.

Tendon or muscle damage can impair movement and may require extensive physical therapy or even surgery.

Fractures

A powerful dog bite or a dog shaking its head while holding onto a person’s limb can cause fractures or breaks in bones.

Bone fractures may require medical attention, including casts, surgery, and rehabilitation.

Scarring

Even after a dog bite heals, scars may remain, especially if the injury was severe or required stitches.

Scarring can be permanent, and in some cases, it may cause long-term discomfort or impact the range of motion, particularly if the bite was near joints or tendons.

Psychological Injuries

In addition to physical injuries, dog bite victims may experience emotional or psychological trauma, such as anxiety, fear of dogs, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Emotional trauma can be long-lasting and may require therapy or counseling to manage.

Rabies Exposure

Rabies is a viral disease that can be transmitted through a dog bite if the dog is infected. It’s a rare but potentially fatal condition.

If you are bitten by a dog that may have rabies, you will need to receive a rabies vaccination series to prevent the virus from spreading.

Loss of Function or Amputation

In extreme cases, especially with severe dog attacks, there may be a loss of function or the need for amputation if the damage to limbs or extremities is extensive.

This is a rare but serious outcome that can result in permanent disability or loss of body parts.

Facial Injuries

Bites to the face, especially to the eyes, lips, or cheeks, can cause serious cosmetic and functional damage.

Facial injuries often require reconstructive surgery and may result in long-term scarring or difficulty with speech and eating.

Eye Injuries

If a dog bites or scratches near the eyes, it can lead to eye injuries such as corneal abrasions or retinal damage.

Eye injuries can be severe, leading to vision loss or permanent damage to the eye if not treated promptly.

Dog bites can cause a range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to more severe, life-changing conditions such as nerve damage, fractures, or infections. Immediate medical attention is crucial to prevent complications and ensure proper treatment. If the injuries are severe or lead to lasting physical or emotional effects, it's important to seek legal advice, particularly if you are considering pursuing a claim for compensation.

In dog bite cases, liability can depend on several factors, including the specific laws of the state or locality where the incident occurred, as well as the circumstances surrounding the bite. Here are the primary parties who may be held liable in dog bite cases:

The Dog Owner

In most dog bite cases, the dog’s owner is the primary party held liable. Under the principle of strict liability in many states, dog owners are responsible for injuries caused by their dog, regardless of whether the dog had a history of aggression or the owner was negligent. This means that if a dog bites someone, the owner may be liable for damages even if the dog had never bitten anyone before or if the dog did not show signs of aggression.

However, some states follow a "one-bite rule," which means that a dog owner may not be held strictly liable unless the dog has previously bitten someone or shown dangerous behavior. In these cases, the owner might only be liable if they were negligent in controlling or containing the dog, or if they failed to take reasonable precautions.

The Property Owner

If the dog bite occurs on property that isn’t the dog owner’s (such as in a neighbor’s yard or a public space), the property owner could be partially responsible for the incident. Property owners have a duty to maintain a safe environment, and if they know a dangerous dog is on the premises, they may be required to take measures to prevent a bite from occurring.

For example, if a person is injured by a dog in a park where the owner should have been aware of the dog's dangerous tendencies, the property owner may be held partially liable if they failed to take reasonable actions to protect the public.

Dog Handlers or Trainers

In cases where a dog is under the care or supervision of a trainer, handler, or even a shelter worker, these individuals may also be held responsible if they fail to properly handle or train the dog. If the dog was known to be dangerous or aggressive, and the handler failed to take appropriate actions to prevent the bite, they could share in the liability.

Caretakers or Sitters

If the dog was being cared for by a sitter or temporary caregiver at the time of the bite, they could be held responsible for the injury if their actions contributed to the incident. For example, if the caretaker failed to properly secure the dog or allowed the dog to come into contact with someone despite known behavioral issues, they may be held liable.

Landlords

In some cases, a landlord may be held liable if a tenant’s dog bites someone and the landlord knew the dog was dangerous but failed to take appropriate actions. This could happen if the landlord had received complaints about the dog’s aggressive behavior but did nothing to address the issue. Liability is more likely if the landlord owns the property where the bite occurred and is responsible for maintaining the safety of the premises.

Government Entities

If the dog bite occurs in a public space or a government-run facility, government entities may be held liable under certain circumstances. This could happen if the government failed to properly enforce laws regarding dangerous animals or failed to provide adequate security measures in public areas.

Insurance Companies

While not directly responsible for the bite, insurance companies can be involved in dog bite cases, particularly if the dog owner has homeowner’s insurance or renter's insurance that includes coverage for dog bites. Insurance companies typically handle the claim and pay for damages up to the policy limit, depending on the circumstances and terms of the policy.

Liability in dog bite cases is typically assigned to the dog’s owner, but depending on the situation, other parties such as property owners, caretakers, and landlords could also be held responsible. Whether the owner is strictly liable or the case falls under the "one-bite rule" depends on state laws, and in some cases, negligence or failure to take proper precautions can play a significant role in determining liability. 

If you’ve been bitten by a dog, it’s important to consult with an attorney to understand the specific laws in your state and explore your options for seeking compensation.

Proving negligence in a dog bite case requires demonstrating that the dog owner (or another responsible party) failed to meet a standard of care, and that this failure directly resulted in the injury. Negligence involves four key elements: duty, breach, causation, and damages. Here's how you can prove each element in a dog bite case:

1. Duty of Care

First, you need to show that the dog owner owed a duty of care to the injured party. Generally, dog owners have a responsibility to ensure their pets do not pose a risk to others. This includes taking reasonable steps to prevent the dog from biting, attacking, or injuring someone. The duty of care can vary depending on the circumstances, but it usually includes:

• Keeping the dog on a leash or in a secure area when outside.
• Ensuring the dog is properly trained or socialized to reduce the likelihood of aggressive behavior.

• Following local laws and regulations concerning dog ownership, such as breed restrictions or leash laws.

   

2. Breach of Duty

Next, you must prove that the dog owner breached this duty of care. This involves showing that the dog owner either acted recklessly, was negligent, or failed to take appropriate precautions to prevent the bite. Examples of a breach of duty may include:

• Allowing the dog to roam freely in public without a leash, despite knowing the dog has a history of aggression.
• Failing to properly secure the dog in their home or yard when they know the dog is prone to escaping or becoming aggressive.
• Ignoring warnings or complaints from neighbors, visitors, or others about the dog's dangerous behavior.
• Failing to adequately train or control the dog, despite knowing the dog has previously shown signs of aggression or a tendency to bite.

If you can show that the dog owner did not take reasonable steps to prevent the incident, this would be considered a breach of their duty of care.

3. Causation

To prove negligence, you need to show that the dog owner's breach of duty directly caused the injury. This is where causation comes into play. You must establish that:

• The dog’s bite was a direct result of the owner’s failure to take appropriate precautions, such as leaving the dog unsupervised or failing to leash the dog.
• Without the owner’s actions (or inactions), the bite would not have occurred.

For example, if the dog owner did not properly secure the dog, and the dog then attacked and bit someone, you need to show that the injury happened because of the owner’s lack of care. If there were other factors that contributed to the bite (the victim provoked the dog), you would need to show that the owner’s actions were still a significant factor in causing the injury.

4. Damages

Lastly, you must prove that damages (the injury) occurred as a result of the dog bite. These damages can be both physical and emotional, and they may include:

• Medical bills for treating the bite or injuries.
• Lost wages if the victim had to miss work due to the injury.
• Pain and suffering, including both physical pain from the injury and emotional distress caused by the attack.
• Scarring or permanent disfigurement, especially if the bite was severe or occurred on a visible area like the face.
• Psychological harm, such as fear of dogs or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after the attack.

To prove damages, you may need medical records, photographs of the injuries, testimony from medical professionals, or documentation showing time missed from work or emotional distress.

Additional Evidence to Prove Negligence in a Dog Bite Case

While the four key elements of negligence are necessary, you may also need additional evidence to strengthen your case. Some of the evidence that can help prove negligence in a dog bite case includes:

• Witness Testimony: Statements from people who witnessed the dog bite or knew about the dog’s dangerous behavior can support your claim.
• Past Incidents: If the dog has a history of aggressive behavior or previous bites, evidence of these prior incidents can demonstrate that the owner was aware of the risk and failed to take action.
• Local Ordinances: If the dog owner violated any local laws regarding leash requirements, containment, or breed restrictions, this could strengthen your case for negligence.
• Veterinary Records: If the dog had been previously treated for aggression, this could demonstrate that the owner was aware of the dog’s dangerous tendencies and failed to address them.

To recap, in order to prove negligence in a dog bite case, you need to establish that the dog owner owed a duty of care to the victim, breached that duty by failing to act responsibly, directly caused the injury, and that damages resulted from the bite. 

Strong evidence, such as witness statements, prior bite history, and medical records, can help strengthen your case and prove that the owner’s negligence was the cause of the incident. 

If you believe you have a case, consulting with an attorney who specializes in personal injury or dog bite cases can help you navigate the legal process.

Yes, you can sue for a dog bite that happens on public property, and the dog owner is usually the primary party held liable. If the dog’s behavior violated local laws or ordinances, or if there was negligence involved (such as the dog being off-leash in an area where it was not allowed), you have a valid claim. 

Additionally, in rare cases, government entities may be held liable for failing to properly maintain a safe environment. 

If you are considering pursuing a claim, it’s advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and increase your chances of obtaining compensation.

If the dog owner refuses to provide insurance information, your next steps should focus on documenting the incident, gathering as much information as possible, contacting local authorities, and seeking legal assistance. 

An attorney specializing in personal injury or dog bite cases can be invaluable in helping you navigate this situation and ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Dog bites can have significant psychological effects, both in the immediate aftermath and long-term, depending on the severity of the bite, the victim's previous experiences with dogs, and the nature of the attack. Here are some of the common psychological effects that victims of dog bites may experience:

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Victims of serious dog bites, especially those involving aggressive dogs or attacks that occur suddenly, may develop PTSD. PTSD is a mental health condition that can result from experiencing a traumatic event, such as a violent dog attack. Symptoms of PTSD may include:

• Flashbacks or intrusive memories of the attack
• Nightmares or difficulty sleeping
• Hypervigilance or feeling on edge
• Avoidance of places or situations that remind the victim of the attack (such as avoiding areas where dogs are present)

Phobia of Dogs (Cynophobia)

A common psychological response to a dog bite is the development of a phobia of dogs, known as cynophobia. This fear can be both rational and irrational, depending on the circumstances of the attack. The severity of the phobia can vary:

• Some victims may avoid all dogs, even those that appear friendly or harmless.
• Others may experience anxiety or panic attacks when encountering dogs, even if they are at a distance.

This fear can extend to general anxiety about animals or specific situations that could lead to another bite.

Anxiety and Panic Attacks

Following a dog bite, victims may experience heightened anxiety, especially if the attack was unexpected or violent. Anxiety can manifest in several ways:

• Constant worry about encountering dogs in the future
• Panic attacks when thinking about or encountering dogs
• Increased stress in situations where dogs may be present, such as parks, neighborhoods, or pet-friendly environments

Victims may also feel nervous or jumpy when walking in public places, fearing that a dog could suddenly appear.

Depression

The trauma of a dog bite can sometimes lead to depression, particularly if the injuries are severe, lead to long-term physical impairment, or cause significant emotional distress. Depression can manifest in various ways, including:

• Feelings of sadness or hopelessness
• Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable
• Isolation from friends, family, or social situations
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, especially if the attack occurred due to circumstances beyond their control (such as being in the wrong place at the wrong time)

Depression may also result from the victim’s perception of how the bite has altered their life, appearance, or sense of safety.

Guilt and Self-Blame

Many dog bite victims may experience guilt or self-blame, even if the attack was not their fault. They may feel responsible for not avoiding the dog or for provoking it, even if there was no provocation. This sense of guilt can be particularly intense for children, who may struggle to understand the event and internalize it in harmful ways.

Changes in Social Behavior

Victims of dog bites, particularly children, may become more socially withdrawn or display changes in their behavior. For example:

• Children may be afraid to go outside or interact with other children who own dogs.
• Adults may avoid certain public places (dog parks) or change their daily routines to avoid situations where dogs are present.
• Victims may become anxious in social gatherings where pets are involved, or they might avoid visiting friends or family who own dogs.

Sleep Disturbances

Victims of dog bites may experience difficulty sleeping due to nightmares, anxiety, or trauma-related stress. Nightmares involving the dog bite or anxiety about dogs may disrupt their ability to get restful sleep, leading to fatigue, irritability, and further psychological distress.

Long-Term Impact on Quality of Life

Depending on the severity of the dog bite and its psychological aftermath, victims may experience a decreased quality of life. This could be related to:

• Persistent fear or anxiety about being in environments where dogs might be present
• Emotional distress about the impact of the dog bite on their physical appearance (especially if the bite leaves visible scars or disfigurement)
• Difficulties resuming normal activities due to lingering trauma or fear

In extreme cases, the emotional and psychological effects of a dog bite may interfere with daily functioning, social interactions, and work.

Increased Sensitivity to Other Animals

After a dog bite, some victims may become more sensitive or fearful of other animals, even if they were not previously afraid. This could extend to other pets, such as cats or even larger animals, due to the trauma associated with being bitten.

Certain dog breeds are often associated with higher rates of bites, but it’s important to note that the behavior of a dog depends largely on factors such as training, socialization, environment, and the owner's care. While certain breeds may be more prone to aggressive behaviors, they are not inherently dangerous. Misconceptions about dog bite statistics can often lead to unfair stigma against certain breeds.

Dog Breeds Most Commonly Associated With Bites

Pit Bull Terriers

Pit bulls are frequently cited in studies and media reports as being involved in a higher number of dog bites. This breed has a strong, muscular build and is often perceived as aggressive.

However, it's important to note that "pit bull" can refer to a variety of breeds or mixed breeds, making it difficult to definitively categorize.

Rottweilers

Rottweilers are another breed often associated with serious bites. Known for their protective instincts, they are sometimes kept as guard dogs. When not properly trained or socialized, they may become more territorial and aggressive.

German Shepherds

German Shepherds are commonly used in police and military work due to their intelligence and strong protective instincts. Although they are generally well-trained and loyal, untrained or poorly socialized dogs can display aggressive behaviors.

Doberman Pinschers

Like Rottweilers, Dobermans are often associated with guard-dog work and have strong territorial instincts. This breed’s association with protection can sometimes lead to aggressive reactions if they perceive a threat.

Chihuahua

While smaller breeds like Chihuahuas are less likely to cause serious injury than larger breeds, they are still responsible for a disproportionate number of dog bites. Small dog breeds can display aggression when feeling threatened, and their owners may sometimes overlook behavioral problems due to their size.

American Bulldog

American Bulldogs, often used for guarding and hunting, can become aggressive if not properly trained and socialized. They are strong and muscular, which means their bites can be more serious if they do occur.

Misconceptions About Dog Bites and Breeds

Aggression Is Inherent in Certain Breeds

A common misconception is that certain breeds, such as pit bulls or Rottweilers, are inherently aggressive or more likely to bite. However, most dogs do not bite unless provoked, fearful, or unwell. Aggression is often the result of poor socialization, inadequate training, neglect, or abuse.

Breeds that are labeled as “aggressive” are often victims of negative stereotypes, which overlook the fact that responsible ownership and proper training are critical to a dog’s behavior.

Pit Bulls Are the Most Dangerous Breed

Pit bulls often receive negative media attention because of their involvement in high-profile attacks, but research shows that many factors contribute to bites, such as the dog’s environment, health, and training. When raised in a positive, well-socialized environment, pit bulls can be friendly, gentle, and loyal companions.

Pit bull-related incidents may also be more widely reported due to the dog’s size and strength, which can result in more severe injuries.

Small Dogs Don’t Pose a Risk

Another misconception is that small dogs, such as Chihuahuas or Dachshunds, are less dangerous because of their size. In reality, small dogs can be just as aggressive as large dogs, though their bites are often less severe due to their size. However, small dogs can still cause serious injuries, especially in children or elderly individuals.

Small dogs may bite out of fear or possessiveness, and their behavior is sometimes overlooked because they are seen as less threatening.

Rescue Dogs Are More Likely to Bite

Many people assume that rescue dogs or dogs from shelters are more prone to biting due to a history of abuse or trauma. While it is true that some rescue dogs may have behavioral issues stemming from neglect, abuse, or fear, many rescue dogs can be incredibly well-adjusted and loving once they are rehabilitated and given proper care.

Each dog, regardless of its background, should be treated as an individual. A dog’s temperament is more influenced by its early life experiences, socialization, and the behavior of its owners than by its breed or shelter status.

Bites Are Always Unprovoked

In some cases, bites happen because a dog feels threatened, scared, or cornered. Many bites occur when a dog is startled, provoked, or misinterpreted, which can be more common in situations with children who may not recognize warning signs of fear or discomfort in dogs.

Dogs may bite to protect their territory, food, toys, or even their owners. This doesn’t mean that a breed is inherently dangerous; it is often a result of how the dog is raised and treated.

Yes, in many cases, insurance can cover dog bites, but the specifics depend on the type of insurance policy, the circumstances of the bite, and the dog owner's coverage. Here's how different types of insurance might apply:

Homeowner’s Insurance

• Coverage for Dog Bites: Most standard homeowner’s insurance policies include liability coverage for injuries caused by pets, including dog bites. This means if your dog bites someone, the policy can cover medical expenses, legal fees, and potential settlements or judgments up to the policy's limit.
• Exclusions: Some policies exclude certain breeds of dogs considered "high-risk" or "dangerous," such as pit bulls, Rottweilers, or Doberman Pinschers. If the dog in question is on the insurer’s list of excluded breeds, the coverage may not apply.
• Limitations: Coverage for dog bites may be subject to the limits of liability in the homeowner’s policy. If the damages exceed that limit, the dog owner could be personally liable for the difference.

Renters’ Insurance

• Coverage for Dog Bites: Renters’ insurance typically includes liability coverage for injuries caused by pets, much like homeowner’s insurance. If a tenant's dog bites someone, the policy may cover medical expenses, legal costs, and other associated fees.
• Breed Restrictions: Some renters’ insurance policies may have exclusions for certain dog breeds that are deemed dangerous or high-risk. If the dog involved is on the insurer’s restricted breed list, the tenant may be held personally liable for the injury.

Umbrella Insurance

• Coverage for Dog Bites: Umbrella insurance is additional liability coverage that can extend beyond the limits of standard homeowner’s or renters' insurance policies. If the primary insurance policy does not cover all the expenses related to a dog bite, umbrella insurance can provide extra protection, covering the remaining costs.
• Exclusions: Similar to other policies, umbrella insurance may also exclude coverage for certain high-risk dog breeds, so it’s important to review the specific terms of the umbrella policy.

Auto Insurance

• Rare Cases: If a dog bite occurs while a dog is inside a vehicle and the incident is related to an auto accident, auto insurance may cover some of the expenses. However, this is a rare case, and generally, auto insurance will not cover dog bites unless directly connected to an accident.

Health Insurance

• Coverage for Medical Treatment: While health insurance generally doesn’t cover liability for the actual dog bite (as that would fall under the dog owner's responsibility), it can cover medical expenses related to the bite itself. For example, if the bite requires emergency treatment, surgery, or follow-up care, the victim’s health insurance could help cover the costs.
• Limitations: Health insurance will only cover the medical treatment for the injury. If the victim seeks compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages, or other damages, they may need to file a claim against the dog owner's liability insurance or pursue legal action.

Liability Insurance for Dog Owners

• Specific Coverage: In some cases, dog owners may purchase additional liability coverage specifically for their pets. This can cover injuries caused by the dog, including dog bites. This type of policy might be purchased through pet insurance or as an endorsement to a homeowner’s policy.
• Breed-Specific Policies: As with homeowners and renters’ insurance, some policies may exclude specific dog breeds or may have higher premiums for breeds that are considered high-risk.

If you’ve been bitten by a dog, you may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages, depending on the severity of the injury, the circumstances surrounding the incident, and the specific laws in your state. The compensation available for dog bite victims typically falls under the following categories:

Medical Expenses

• Immediate and Ongoing Treatment: This includes the cost of emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, wound care, and any other medical services necessary to treat the dog bite. If you require long-term treatment or rehabilitation, such as physical therapy or counseling for psychological trauma, those costs may also be covered.
• Future Medical Costs: If the dog bite causes permanent damage (e.g., scarring, loss of function, or long-term health complications), you may be entitled to compensation for future medical needs related to the injury.

Pain and Suffering

• Physical Pain: Compensation for the pain you endured as a result of the dog bite, including the intensity and duration of your physical pain, is common in dog bite cases.
• Emotional Distress: Dog bite victims often experience emotional and psychological trauma. This can include anxiety, depression, PTSD, or fear of dogs. Compensation for emotional suffering is meant to address these non-economic damages.
• Disfigurement or Scarring: If the dog bite leaves permanent scars or disfigurement, you may be awarded compensation for the emotional distress or loss of self-esteem caused by the visible injuries.

Lost Wages

• Time Off Work: If the dog bite injury causes you to miss work, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This includes both the wages you missed while recovering and any potential future lost wages if the injury affects your ability to work or perform daily activities.
• Reduced Earning Capacity: If the injury leads to a long-term or permanent disability that affects your ability to perform your job or limits your career prospects, you may be entitled to compensation for the reduction in earning capacity.

Loss of Quality of Life

Dog bites can result in permanent disabilities that affect your ability to engage in daily activities, hobbies, or social functions. Compensation may be awarded for the loss of enjoyment of life, particularly if the injury severely impacts your lifestyle or independence.

Property Damage

While not common in dog bite cases, if the dog bite incident resulted in damage to your property (your clothing, personal items, or your pet), you may be entitled to compensation for repairs or replacement costs.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are awarded in rare cases where the dog owner’s actions were particularly reckless or malicious. For example, if the owner knowingly allowed the dog to be dangerous, failed to control the dog despite warnings, or had prior knowledge of the dog’s aggressive tendencies, punitive damages might be granted. These damages are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.

Wrongful Death (If Applicable)

In the tragic event that a dog bite leads to a fatality, the victim’s family may file a wrongful death lawsuit. The family members may be entitled to compensation for the loss of their loved one, including funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional distress.

At Morgan & Morgan, our team of experienced attorneys has successfully represented countless clients in similar situations, securing millions in compensation. As the largest personal injury law firm in the country with over 1,000 lawyers nationwide, we have the resources, knowledge, and dedication to fight for your rights. 

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t have to pay unless we win your case. Morgan & Morgan believes justice should be accessible to all, so our motto is the Fee Is Free™—you only pay if we win.

Don’t bear the burden of your injuries on your own because of someone else’s negligence. Contact Morgan & Morgan today for a free case evaluation to learn more about your legal options.

No. Consultations at Morgan & Morgan are completely free. We believe everyone deserves access to legal advice, regardless of their financial situation.

Hiring one of our lawyers is easy, and you can get started in minutes with a free case evaluation on our site or by phone.

When you hire Morgan & Morgan, you don’t just hire a lawyer, you hire the largest personal injury law firm in the country with an army of over 1,000 lawyers and offices in all 50 states and Washington, D.C.

Your case will be handled by a dedicated team of professionals, including personal injury lawyers, paralegals, and support staff. You will be assigned a care team that includes a primary attorney who will oversee your case and ensure you receive personalized attention throughout the process.

We love talking to our clients. You will primarily communicate with your Case Manager via telephone and email, and if you would like to speak directly with your attorney via telephone, we will make that happen by scheduling a call.

Morgan & Morgan’s lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning that there are no upfront fees or expenses until your case comes to a successful conclusion. That’s right—the Fee Is Free™, and you only pay if we win.

Our fee is a percentage of the settlement or verdict amount, ensuring we are motivated to achieve the best possible outcome for you.