Most dog bite claims are paid by the owner’s homeowners or renters insurance policy, which typically includes liability coverage. The insurance company will handle the claim, but their goal is to pay as little as possible. They may try to deny the claim if the dog’s breed is excluded by the policy or if the incident occurred outside the covered property. An attorney can negotiate with the insurer to seek a full and fair settlement that covers all your damages.

You can seek money for two main categories: economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover concrete financial losses like medical bills, lost wages from missing work, vehicle repair costs, and any future care you need. Non-economic damages compensate for intangible harms like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In rare cases involving extreme misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party. The total value depends on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the clarity of fault.

Avoid emotional language; stick to clear, factual statements. Do not underestimate the value of your claim—include every related loss, from direct costs to future expenses. Ensure all dates, names, and figures are accurate. Failing to file within legal time limits (statutes of limitation) is a critical error. Finally, do not forget to sign the form. These mistakes can weaken your position or cause the court to dismiss your case.