Dog bite results in injury, infection and scarring — $100,000 settlement

Type of action: Negligence and tort

Injuries alleged: Deep lacerations and infection

Date resolved: Nov. 19, 2025

Special damages: $20,092 in medical bills

Amount: $100,000

Attorney for plaintiff: Thomas Curcio, Alexandria, Curcio Law

Insurance carrier: State Farm

Description of case: On Jan. 15, 2024, the plaintiff was attacked by a dog inside the fenced dog park of an apartment complex in Alexandria. The dog, known to be aggressive towards the plaintiff and her dog in passing, was unleashed despite growling in the holding area.

It charged at the plaintiff and her dog, first attacking her dog and then biting the plaintiff on her left thigh when she attempted to intervene. The force of the attack knocked her to the ground.

Emergency responders transported her to INOVA Alexandria Hospital for treatment.

The plaintiff sustained three lacerations to her thigh, including one 3.5 cm wound with exposed  subcutaneous fat, along with abrasions, swelling and a hematoma. She also underwent a full rabies vaccination series due to the unknown vaccine status of the dog.

The plaintiff’s injuries became infected, requiring extended antibiotics and follow-up care with a plastic surgeon. She developed hypertrophic scarring that remains visible on her leg. She incurred $20,092.79 in medical expenses.

The case settled for the full $100,000 policy limits from the dog owner’s rental liability policy.

[025-T-205]