UK Dog Bite Compensation Calculator
If you have been bitten or injured by a dog in the UK, you may be entitled to compensation. This calculator provides an estimated figure based on the two main types of damages: General Damages (for your pain and suffering) and Special Damages (for your financial losses).
Part 1: General Damages (Pain, Suffering & Loss of Amenity)
General Damages compensate for the non-financial aspects of your injury. The amount depends on the severity of the injury, its impact on your life, and any resulting scarring. The figures below are based on the Judicial College Guidelines, which solicitors and courts use as a reference.
— Select an option —
Minor bites with full recovery
Noticeable scarring, minor nerve damage
Significant scarring, particularly on face/arms
Severe injuries with lasting functional impact
Enter custom amount
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Part 2: Special Damages (Financial Losses)
Special Damages cover all the specific, out-of-pocket expenses and financial losses you have incurred as a direct result of the dog bite.
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Estimated Total Compensation
This calculator provides an estimate for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The final compensation amount can only be determined through a formal legal claim.
Understanding Dog Bite Claims in the UK
In the UK, laws such as the Animals Act 1971 and the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 place responsibility on dog owners to ensure their animals do not cause harm. If a dog attacks and injures someone, the owner is often held liable, especially if the dog has shown aggressive tendencies before.
How is Compensation Calculated?
As shown in the calculator, a personal injury claim for a dog bite is split into two parts:
- General Damages: This is for the injury itself. A solicitor will assess your medical reports, photographs of the injuries and scarring, and psychological reports to value this part of your claim. The amount is subjective and aims to compensate for your pain, suffering, and the impact on your quality of life (known as 'loss of amenity').
- Special Damages: This part is a direct calculation of your financial losses. It is crucial to keep all receipts and records of expenses related to the incident. This includes prescription charges, private medical treatment costs, travel fares to appointments, lost wages from being unable to work, and costs for any care you needed.
Example Calculation
Let's consider a realistic scenario:
- A person suffers a bite to their arm, resulting in several puncture wounds and some noticeable scarring after it heals. A solicitor, referencing the Judicial College Guidelines, values the General Damages at £7,500.
- The person required private physiotherapy to regain full movement, costing £600 (Medical Costs).
- They had to take two weeks off their job, resulting in £1,000 in Lost Earnings.
- Their expensive winter coat was torn beyond repair, valued at £200 (Property Damage).
- They spent £50 on taxis to and from the hospital and physio appointments.
In this case, the total estimated compensation would be £7,500 (General) + £600 + £1,000 + £200 + £50 = £9,350.
What Steps Should You Take After a Dog Bite?
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the priority. Dog bites can cause serious infections, so get checked by a medical professional immediately.
- Report the Incident: Report the attack to the police and the local council's dog warden. This creates an official record.
- Gather Information: Get the name and address of the dog's owner. Take photos of your injuries and the location of the incident.
- Keep Records: Keep a diary of your symptoms and recovery, and save all receipts for any related expenses.
- Seek Legal Advice: Contact a specialist personal injury solicitor to discuss your case. Most offer a free initial consultation.
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