Despite the UK being a nation of dog lovers with 23% of all UK households caring for at least one dog, accidents and injuries related to canine aggression such as dog bites and dog attacks have risen in recent years. The latest figures from 2019 showed that NHS hospitals recorded a 5% increase in injuries involving dogs with over 23,000 people suffering minor and major dog-related injuries between 2015 and 2018 alone (rcseng.ac.uk).
At Garratts, we understand the severe impact a dog attack can have on your physical and mental wellbeing. Our team of personal injury solicitors is committed to working hard to help you secure the compensation you deserve.
What types of injuries can people get from dog bites or dog attacks?
- Minor bites to upper and lower limbs, i.e. arms and legs
- Severe cuts
- Facial injuries
- Damage to tendons or muscles
- Serious injuries to limbs, sometimes requiring amputation or digit
- Internal organ damage
- Fatal injuries
Can I claim if I suffered a dog bite injury in 2023?
If you have been involved in an unprovoked dog attack through no fault of your own, you may be eligible to claim compensation against the dog owner.
Speak to one of our personal injury solicitors before settling with the responsible owner. You will have your case reviewed by an experienced legal expert who will advise you on the appropriate level of compensation you may be eligible to receive.
Dog bite and dog attack-related injuries which are a result of the negligence of the dog owner may be eligible for a compensation claim to cover:
- Loss of earnings
- Future loss of earnings
- Medical expenses
- Physiotherapy
The Dangerous Dog Act 1991 & banned dog breeds
As a result of the Dangerous Dog Act 1991, certain types of dogs are prohibited or restricted in the UK. Government guidelines classify the following dog breeds as ‘banned dogs’:
- Pit Bull Terrier
- Japanese Tosa
- Dogo Argentino
- Fila Brasileiro
Moreover, banned dogs are not allowed to be sold, abandoned, given away or bred.
How much compensation can I claim for a dog bite injury?
The level of compensation for your dog bite injury claim will vary on a case-by-case basis. However, you could be awarded a minimum amount of £1,000 compensation for general pain and suffering whilst facial injuries or disfigurements could be awarded between £23,000 and £74,000 depending on their severity.
What is the process for making a dog bite compensation claim?
To start making a dog bite compensation claim, you can contact us for a consultation. Following an initial review of your case, our personal injury solicitors will advise as to whether we think you will be able to claim compensation. After this, we will accrue all evidence required to support your claim and inform the insurers of the negligent party.
To ensure the best possible outcome, we will also organise an independent medical examination report for you before presenting your case to the motor insurers and entering settlement negotiations. Rest assured that we will undertake all negotiations and represent you in court if required.
No Win, No Fee Road Dog Bite and Dog Attack Claims
At Garratts, we operate on a ‘No win, No Fee’ basis. Therefore, you will not have to pay anything if your dog bite claim isn’t successful. If you are awarded compensation, your legal fees will be paid by the negligent party. You will also pay a success fee to us, but this is capped at a maximum of 25% of the compensation awarded.
