Dog Bite Lawsuits: Understanding Your Settlement Timeline
3 min read read
Published Apr 2, 2025
One Bite vs. Strict Liability
The first thing that determines if you can get funded for a dog bite case is the law in your state. Some states follow the "One Bite Rule" (the owner is only liable if they knew the dog was aggressive), while others use "Strict Liability" (the owner is responsible regardless of the dog's history).
We approve funding faster in Strict Liability states because the case is easier to win. If you live in a "One Bite" state, your attorney will need to provide extra evidence—like animal control records—showing the dog had a history of aggression before we can approve an advance.
The "Healing" Factor
Dog bite settlements are unique because a huge portion of the value comes from scarring and disfigurement. Unlike a broken bone that heals in 6 weeks, scars change over time.
A good attorney will not settle your case until your scars have fully matured (which can take 6-12 months) or until a plastic surgeon has given an estimate for revision surgery. Settling too early means you won't get paid for the future cost of fixing the scar. Funding helps you cover bills during this necessary waiting period.
Who Actually Pays?
Plaintiffs are often hesitant to sue because the dog owner might be a friend, neighbor, or family member. "I don't want to bankrupt my neighbor," they say.
The reality is that Homeowners Insurance or Renters Insurance almost always pays the settlement, not the individual. The money comes from a giant insurance corporation, not your neighbor's pocket. Once we verify the insurance policy limits, we can approve funding to help you pay your own medical bills immediately.
