Things to Know About Dog Bite Settlement Amounts

More common than many realize, thousands of people are injured in Georgia dog attacks each year. Because of these attacks, victims often need monetary compensation to cope with medical bills, missed work, and lasting emotional scars.

If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Atlanta, you may wonder what kind of settlement you can expect. The truth is that dog bite settlement amounts vary widely, and several factors come into play when determining compensation. Talk to an Atlanta premises liability lawyer to learn more.

Why Do Settlement Amounts Vary So Much?

There is no standard payout for a dog bite injury. Instead, settlements depend on the specific circumstances of each case. Factors that influence the amount include:

• Severity of the injury. A minor bite that heals quickly may lead to a lower settlement than a severe attack causing disfigurement, nerve damage, or the need for reconstructive surgery.
• Medical expenses. Hospital visits, surgeries, medications, and ongoing therapy are all considered. The higher the bills, the higher the potential settlement.
• Lost wages. If the injury prevents you from working, compensation may cover lost income and reduced earning capacity.
• Emotional impact. Psychological trauma, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), can significantly increase the value of a claim.
• Insurance coverage. Most dog bite claims are paid through homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. The policy limits often set the ceiling on how much an injured person can recover.

Because of these variables, settlements can range from a few thousand dollars to hundreds of thousands, depending on the case.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Settlement?

There is no legal minimum or maximum amount for dog bite settlements in Georgia. In many cases, insurance limits will influence outcomes. For instance, if the dog owner’s policy covers up to $100,000, that may be the practical cap unless other assets are available. Also, there is no guaranteed minimum. So, when injuries are minor, compensation could be modest, sometimes only covering medical bills.

Every case is unique, which is why it’s important to work with an attorney who understands how to value a claim properly.

Insurance companies often try to settle quickly and for less than the case is worth. To fight for maximum compensation, an injured party should seek prompt treatment and secure records that support the seriousness of the injury. Keeping a journal of pain, anxiety, or lifestyle changes can help demonstrate non-economic damages, too.

Dog bite settlements range in amounts because every case is different. Considerations such as the extent of the injuries, medical costs, emotional trauma, and insurance coverage all play a role. There is no set minimum or maximum, but with the right strategy, and the support of an experienced Atlanta premises liability lawyer, you can pursue the full compensation you need to recover physically, emotionally, and financially.

Is it possible for you to access funds following an animal attack? The attorneys at Zagoria Law are available to investigate the case, identify all potential sources of compensation, and negotiate aggressively with insurers. Contact us today to discuss your case