A dog attack can be a frightening experience that leaves you with both physical and emotional scars. Whether it happens in a public park, on a neighbour’s property or during your daily walk, the aftermath can be overwhelming. You may be dealing with injuries, trauma and uncertainty about your legal rights.

Here the expert dog bite solicitors at Switalskis explore what you should do after an attack, how the law protects you and the ways you can seek compensation for your injuries.

Can I claim compensation if a dog bites me?

If you have been bitten by a dog, you may be entitled to claim compensation. Dog owners are legally responsible for keeping their pets under control and, if they fail to do so, they can be held accountable. 

Under the Animals Act 1971 , dog owners are legally responsible for their pet’s behaviour. You may be able to make a claim against the owner if:

• The dog has previously shown aggressive behaviour.
• The owner failed to take reasonable precautions, such as using a leash or muzzle.
• The attack happened in a public place or on private property where you were legally allowed to be..

If the attack was unprovoked, you may have a valid dog attack compensation claim.

Under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 a dog is considered dangerously out of control if it injures someone or causes them to fear for their safety. If a dog attacks you in a public place or on private property where you had a legal right to be, the owner could face legal consequences. Certain breeds, such as the Pit Bull Terrier and XL Bully, are banned under the law in England and Wales, and attacks involving these breeds can carry additional legal repercussions.

Can I claim compensation if a guard dog or police dog bites me?

If you've been bitten by a guard dog while at work or while visiting someone else’s premises, you may be able to claim compensation. Employers that use guard dogs must keep them under control to protect staff and visitors. If an attack happens, your claim may be covered by their employers’ liability insurance.

Police dogs are trained to assist officers, but if you are bitten without justification, you may have a right to claim compensation. The law considers whether the force used was reasonable. If you’ve suffered an injury from a police or guard dog, you may also be able to recover costs for medical treatment, lost earnings and other expenses. Speaking to a solicitor will help you understand the options that are available to you.

What should I do if a dog bites me?

If you’ve been attacked by a dog, taking immediate action can protect your health and strengthen any potential compensation claim. Seeking medical attention should be your priority even if the injury seems minor, as infections and complications can arise. This will also create a medical record, which will help your case for compensation.

Reporting the attack to the police, your local authority and the dog’s owner where possible is also essential. Gathering evidence, such as photographs of injuries, details of the dog and owner and any witness contact information, will help to establish all the circumstances around your injury for the purposes of a claim.

Keeping records of expenses including medical costs, loss of earnings and travel expenses related to treatment could increase the amount of compensation you are entitled to claim.

Can a dog owner face criminal charges?

In addition to civil compensation claims, dog owners can be prosecuted if their pet is dangerously out of control. Criminal penalties could apply if the dog attacks and injures someone, the attack happens on private property without justification, the dog is a banned breed, or if the dog injures or kills an assistance dog. Penalties for owners can include fines, prison sentences, destruction orders for the dog, and lifetime bans on dog ownership.

How much compensation could I receive?

Every dog bite claim is assessed individually, with compensation based on the impact of the injury and the associated costs. Factors that will be considered include:

Severity of injuries

The extent of a physical injury will affect the amount you can claim. For example, severe bites leading to permanent scarring, nerve damage or long-term medical complications would attract higher settlements.

Psychological effects

A dog attack can leave lasting emotional distress. If you experience anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder or a fear of dogs after the incident, compensation can reflect this psychological impact on your daily life. This can also include any loss of enjoyment in activities you used to enjoy before your injury.

Medical expenses

Compensation can include the cost of medical treatment, such as hospital visits, medication, surgery, and rehabilitation. If ongoing care is needed, this will be factored into the claim.

Loss of earnings

If your injury forced you to take time off work, or if it has affected your ability to work in the future, you can claim for lost earnings. This includes both immediate loss of income and any potential future financial impact.

Additional costs

If you have incurred expenses for travel to medical appointments, therapy or for additional support during recovery, you can also claim for these costs.

How can Switalskis help with your dog bite claim?

If you're thinking about making a dog bite compensation claim, Switalskis can guide you through the process. Our personal injury solicitors have helped many people in similar situations to get the compensation they deserve. In lots of cases we are able to settle claims without the need for court proceedings, making the process as straightforward as possible for you. We will assess your situation, gather the necessary evidence and handle negotiations with insurers on your behalf. If required, we will represent you in court to make sure you receive fair compensation.

Most dog bite claims are handled on a no win, no fee basis, so there is no financial risk in seeking legal advice. Our team will explain everything clearly and keep you informed at every stage of your claim. Contact us today to discuss your case. Call us on 0800 1380 458 or reach out via our website to find out how we can support you.