There are just over 4.5 million dog bites each year in the United States. Many are one-bite attacks that may not require serious medical care but can leave emotional scars. Being bitten by an angry dog is terrifying, and victims know that feeling well.
Out of those 4.5 million bites, more than 800,000 require serious medical attention. Many of these involve multiple dogs and result in severe injuries.
Why Dog Bite Cases Deserve Legal Attention
When someone injures another person, the law requires the at-fault party to pay for damages. The same rule applies when a dog bites someone — the owner is responsible for helping the victim recover.
You can technically handle your dog bite claim without an attorney. You could even try to treat your wound without seeing a doctor. But would you? A doctor is an expert who can treat your injury properly. Similarly, a dog bite lawyer is an expert in dealing with insurance companies and proving liability.
You could contact the dog owner’s homeowners insurance company directly, but expect to be shortchanged. Insurance companies stay profitable by collecting premiums and paying out as little as possible. When you face them without an attorney, you’re up against a team of trained legal professionals. You’ll likely be outmatched — and underpaid.
Understanding the One-Bite Rule
Utah follows a strict liability rule for dog bites. That means a dog’s owner is responsible for injuries their dog causes — even if it’s the first time the dog has ever bitten someone. Unlike some states that follow the “one-bite rule,” Utah does not give dog owners a free pass on a first offense.
In states with the one-bite rule, the owner isn’t usually held liable unless the dog has shown aggression before or has a history of biting. Essentially, the owner gets one warning before facing legal consequences.
In Utah, however, the law assumes owners are responsible for their animals from the start. Whether the dog has bitten someone before or not, the victim can still seek compensation. This law helps protect victims from the physical, financial, and emotional fallout of a dog attack.
If a dog has bitten before, your claim becomes even stronger. Prior incidents can show that the owner knew their dog was dangerous but failed to take precautions. That lack of action can increase the amount of compensation you’re entitled to.
Why Working with an Injury Attorney Helps
After a dog bite, you might feel unsure about calling a lawyer. Many people worry that it means they’re “suing” their neighbor or a friend. In reality, that’s not what happens. When you work with a personal injury attorney, you’re not attacking the dog owner personally. You’re simply filing a claim through their homeowners or renters insurance — the policy that exists for exactly this type of situation.
Most dog bite settlements come directly from insurance coverage. The owner doesn’t pay out of pocket; their insurance company does. These policies exist to protect both sides — the victim who needs help recovering and the owner who didn’t intend for the incident to happen.
A skilled attorney knows how to navigate this process while keeping relationships intact. At McMullin Injury Law, we handle all communication with insurance adjusters so you don’t have to. We make sure your medical bills, therapy costs, and any lost wages are fully covered.
Insurance companies often downplay claims or offer quick settlements that barely cover your initial hospital visit. An experienced attorney knows how to recognize low offers and negotiate for the amount you truly deserve.
When You Might Not Need a Lawyer
There are cases when hiring an attorney may not be necessary. You might personally know the dog’s owner. Over half of dog bites in the U.S. happen on the owner’s property, meaning victims often know the dog and its family.
Some owners take responsibility right away. They may admit fault, avoid filing a claim with their insurance, and even offer to pay you directly. This can happen because they fear higher insurance premiums or simply want to make things right quickly.
If the bite was minor, a direct payment might resolve the issue. Negotiating privately can be effective when both parties are reasonable.
However, if your injuries are serious, this approach is risky. You cannot know the full extent of your injuries immediately after the attack. A Utah dog bite lawyer can review your case in a free consultation before you accept any settlement.
Why It’s Smart to Contact a Dog Bite Attorney
If you have any doubt about what to do after a dog bite, it’s best to contact an attorney. A quick conversation can help you understand your rights and options.
Being bitten by a dog is traumatic enough. Don’t let an insurance company take advantage of you afterward. Get informed, get help, and make sure you’re treated fairly.
