What Is the Ian Dunbar Bite Scale?

The Ian Dunbar Bite Scale is a widely respected tool used by veterinarians, animal behaviorists, and legal professionals. It is used to categorize dog bites based on the level of damage inflicted. For individuals pursuing a personal injury claim after a dog bite, the scale can be a critical factor in demonstrating the seriousness of the incident and supporting a case for financial compensation.

If you or someone you care about is recovering for harm sustained in an animal attack, talk to a legal professional. An experienced Atlanta dog bite lawyer can guide you through the legal process and help you recover the full amount you are owed.

How the Bite Scale Supports Injury Claims

A six-level system, the Ian Dunbar Bite Scale classifies dog bites based on the severity of the bite and the resulting injuries. Here’s a basic outline of the levels:

• Level 1. Aggressive behavior but no actual contact. This could be the case if a dog snaps or lunges, but no skin contact is made.
• Level 2. Dog teeth touch a person’s skin, but there is no puncture. There could be slight bleeding caused by the dog’s teeth grazing the skin.
• Level 3. One to four punctures from a single bite, no deeper than half the length of the dog’s canine teeth. Lacerations may be present.
• Level 4. Punctures with at least one being deeper than half the length of the dog’s canine teeth. There may also be bruising or lacerations caused by the dog shaking its head during the bite.
• Level 5. Multiple bites at Level 4 severity or a serious attack that indicates the dog is dangerous.
• Level 6. Fatal bite. This level is rarely encountered but represents the most extreme aggression.

Every situation has its own details to review, but the Dunbar Bite Scale can be valuable in assessing harm. Insurance adjusters and attorneys often look at the nature and severity of injuries when determining how much compensation is appropriate.

When the bite scale is used, a Level 3 or higher bite typically indicates significant injury. This could include deep punctures, infections, or permanent scarring, all of which can support a claim for medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, disfigurement, or disability. By using the Dunbar Scale a victim can put themselves in a stronger negotiation position when seeking financial recovery.

Securing a Full and Fair Settlement

It’s important to speak with a qualified Atlanta dog bite lawyer if you or someone you care about was attacked by a dog and you now need funds to cover injury-related expenses. Dog bite cases can be complex, especially when determining liability under local leash laws or reviewing coverage under Georgia homeowner insurance policies. Contacting an attorney early can help preserve evidence and increase your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.

Injured by a dog in Atlanta? Knowing how to classify the bite using the Ian Dunbar Scale is a key first step. Have a conversation with the attorneys at Zagoria Law. Contact us today to learn more.