Dog Bite Settlements in Tennessee

If you have been involved in a dog bite in Tennessee, understanding how the state's personal injury laws affect your claim is essential. Tennessee follows the modified comparative fault (50% bar) system, and you have 1 years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit.

Dog Bite Settlement Range in Tennessee

Nationally, dog bite settlements range from $5,000 to $150,000. In Tennessee, settlement values are influenced by the state's fault rules, damage caps, and local jury tendencies.

Low

$5,000

Estimated

$35,000

High

$150,000

How Tennessee Law Affects Your Dog Bite Claim

Tennessee has a short 1-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims and caps non-economic damages at $750,000 (or $1 million for catastrophic injuries) in both general personal injury and medical malpractice cases. The state uses a modified comparative fault system with a 50% bar. Nashville's rapid growth has increased the volume and complexity of personal injury litigation in Middle Tennessee.

Under Tennessee's modified comparative fault (50% bar) system, your settlement may be affected if you share any responsibility for the accident. Your recovery will be reduced by your fault percentage, and you are barred from recovery if your fault reaches 50% or more.

Tennessee also imposes a cap of $750,000 on non-economic damages, which may limit the pain and suffering component of your dog bite settlement.

Factors Affecting Dog Bite Claims in Tennessee

✓Severity of bite and extent of injuries
✓Scarring and disfigurement, especially facial
✓Prior history of the dog's aggressive behavior
✓State liability laws (strict liability vs. one-bite rule)
✓Homeowner's or renter's insurance coverage
✓Psychological trauma and PTSD
✓Medical treatment and reconstructive surgery costs

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Deep lacerations and puncture woundsFacial scarring and disfigurementNerve damageBone fractures from attackInfection (including rabies risk)Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)Tendon and muscle damage

Relevant Tennessee Statutes

•Tenn. Code Ann. § 28-3-104 (statute of limitations, 1 year)
•Tenn. Code Ann. § 29-11-103 (modified comparative fault, 50% bar)
•Tenn. Code Ann. § 29-39-102 (non-economic damages cap)

Dog Bite Claims in Tennessee Cities

If your dog bite occurred in Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville, Chattanooga, Clarksville, or anywhere else in Tennessee, the same state laws apply. Local court systems and jury pools can also influence settlement outcomes.

Calculate Your Claim →← Dog Bite Tennessee Laws →

This information is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Consult a licensed personal injury attorney in your state.