Level 3 Dog Bite Settlement Amounts in California: What Victims Can Expect

Dog bites are traumatic events that can range from minor scratches to life-altering injuries. In California, victims of dog attacks are protected by strict liability laws that allow them to pursue compensation regardless of the dog’s history. When a bite is classified as Level 3, it typically involves one to four puncture wounds from a single bite, with none deeper than half the length of the dog’s canine teeth. These injuries are more serious than superficial bites but do not involve deep tissue damage or permanent disfigurement. This article explores what Level 3 dog bite victims can expect in terms of settlement amounts, legal rights, and the factors that influence compensation.

Understanding the Dunbar Bite Scale

The Dunbar Bite Scale is a widely used system for classifying dog bite severity:

  • Level 1: No skin contact
  • Level 2: Skin contact without puncture
  • Level 3: One to four shallow punctures
  • Level 4: Deep punctures and tearing
  • Level 5: Multiple bites with serious injury
  • Level 6: Fatal attack

Level 3 bites often require medical attention but typically do not result in permanent disability. However, they can still lead to infection, scarring, and psychological trauma—especially in children.

California’s Strict Liability Law

Under California Civil Code § 3342, dog owners are strictly liable for bites that occur:

  • In public places
  • On private property where the victim is lawfully present

This means victims do not need to prove negligence or prior knowledge of the dog’s aggression. The law applies even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.

Exceptions include:

  • Trespassing
  • Provoking the dog
  • Working with dogs professionally (e.g., veterinarians)

Typical Settlement Range for Level 3 Bites

Level 3 dog bite settlements in California generally range from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost income
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Insurance coverage

According to LegalClarity, Level 3 bites occupy a middle ground in severity and often result in moderate compensation. While not life-threatening, these injuries can still disrupt daily life and require treatment.

Real-Life Examples

Child Bitten at Daycare – $7,500 Settlement

  • Incident: A child was bitten on the arm by a dog brought to a daycare facility
  • Injuries: Three puncture wounds requiring antibiotics and follow-up care
  • Why This Amount: Included medical bills, emotional trauma, and parental time off work

Delivery Driver Bitten on Hand – $9,000 Settlement

  • Incident: A delivery driver was bitten by a dog that escaped through a broken gate
  • Injuries: Four puncture wounds and minor nerve sensitivity
  • Why This Amount: Covered medical treatment, lost wages, and pain and suffering

Factors That Influence Settlement Amounts

1. Medical Costs

Level 3 bites often require:

  • Emergency room visits
  • Antibiotics and tetanus shots
  • Wound cleaning and dressing
  • Follow-up care

Documented medical expenses form the foundation of any settlement.

2. Lost Income

Victims may miss work due to:

  • Medical appointments
  • Recovery time
  • Psychological distress

Pay stubs and employer statements help substantiate these claims.

3. Pain and Suffering

Non-economic damages reflect:

  • Physical pain
  • Anxiety or fear of dogs
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Impact on daily activities

Children and elderly victims may receive higher compensation due to vulnerability.

4. Emotional Distress

Even moderate bites can cause:

  • PTSD symptoms
  • Fear of going outside
  • Avoidance of animals

Psychological evaluations and therapy records strengthen these claims.

5. Insurance Coverage

Most settlements are paid through:

  • Homeowners insurance
  • Renters insurance
  • Umbrella policies

Policy limits may cap the payout, even if damages exceed coverage.

Comparative Fault in California

California follows a pure comparative negligence model. If the victim shares fault (e.g., provoking the dog), their compensation is reduced proportionally.

Example:

  • Total damages: $10,000
  • Victim found 20% at fault
  • Final payout: $8,000

Statute of Limitations

Under California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1, victims have:

  • Two years from the date of the bite to file a personal injury lawsuit
  • Six months to file a claim against a government entity (Gov. Code § 911.2)

Missing these deadlines may bar recovery entirely.

How to Strengthen Your Claim

To maximize your settlement:

  1. Seek medical attention immediately
  2. Document the incident with photos and witness statements
  3. Report the bite to animal control or local authorities
  4. Keep records of medical bills, missed work, and communications
  5. Consult a California dog bite lawyer

Legal representation helps negotiate with insurers and build a compelling case.

Final Thoughts

Level 3 dog bites may not be catastrophic, but they still warrant legal attention. California’s strict liability laws make it easier for victims to recover compensation, and settlements in the $2,500 to $10,000 range are common. By documenting injuries, understanding your rights, and working with an experienced attorney, you can pursue fair compensation and hold negligent dog owners accountable.

References

  • California Civil Code § 3342. https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CIV&sectionNum=3342
  • California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1. https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CCP&sectionNum=335.1
  • California Government Code § 911.2. https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=GOV&sectionNum=911.2
  • Level 3 Dog Bite Settlement Amounts – LegalClarity
  • Average Dog Bite Settlement Amounts in California – Duque Law
  • California Dog Bite Settlements by Level – LawLinq
  • Dog Bite Settlements in California – Shouse Law Group