Dog owners often underestimate the harm even a seemingly well-behaved dog can cause when it bites someone. A dog attack can cause severe physical injuries and lingering psychological trauma, and the cost of medical treatment can drain your finances. If you suffered injuries in an animal attack, turn to Bayuk Pratt. A dog bite attorney in Georgia can help you recover the money you need for your medical treatment and other needs.
At Bayuk Pratt, we have over 50 years of combined legal experience and can handle all the details of a dog bite case. We’ve recovered over $300 million for our clients, and our experience as former insurance defense attorneys gives us an edge in these complicated cases. We’ll handle all the legal work in your dog bite claim while you heal.
Call us today or complete our contact form for a free consultation with a Georgia dog bite lawyer.
Why Should I Hire a Georgia Dog Bite Attorney?
Hiring a Georgia dog bite attorney is crucial for ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for your injury. Handling the legal system on your own can be overwhelming and confusing, especially when you’re dealing with insurance companies. A skilled lawyer can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and build a strong dog bite injury case.
Trying to handle a dog bite case without legal representation can be risky. You might miss important deadlines, overlook critical evidence, or accept a settlement that doesn’t fully cover your losses. An experienced attorney can help ensure your case is thoroughly prepared and that you receive fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.
At Bayuk Pratt, we have a distinct advantage. Our founders, Frank Bayuk and Bradley Pratt, previously served as senior partners for some of the biggest corporate and injury defense firms in the country. They know how insurance companies fight payouts and deny claims. This insider knowledge allows us to get accident victims like you the justice and financial security they deserve. This approach has helped us recover $300 million to date in settlements and awards for accident victims, and it’s one we want to put to work for you.
Don’t risk your future by not hiring a capable attorney – let Bayuk Pratt fight for your rights and help you get the justice you need.
What Should I Do If I Am Attacked by a Dog?
Being attacked by a dog is a frightening experience. Nevertheless, it’s vital in the aftermath to take proper steps to protect your health and legal rights. Here’s what to do if you’re attacked by a dog:
- Report the Attack – Contact your local animal control or police department to report the incident. This action creates an official record of the attack.
- Gather Information – If possible, get the dog owner’s contact information and that of any eyewitnesses. Take photos of your injuries and, if it’s safe, where the attack happened.
- Document Everything – Keep a detailed record of your medical treatments, expenses, and any missed work. Note any pain or emotional distress you experience.
- Stay Off Social Media – Insurance companies can find your posts and use them against you. You don’t want to give them any ammunition that could hurt your legal case.
- Avoid Talking to Insurance Companies – Insurance adjusters will likely try to get you to settle quickly for less than you deserve. Refer them to your attorney.
- Consult a Dog Bite Attorney – An experienced attorney can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the process of seeking compensation.
What Compensation Could I Recover in a Dog Bite Claim?
Your compensation in a Georgia dog bite case depends on your injuries, medical bills, lost income, and elements specific to your circumstances. By working with an experienced attorney, you could recover compensation for many of your losses, including:
- Your past and future medical expenses related to your injuries
- Your lost income
- Your reduced future earnings if your injuries prevent you from returning to your old job
- Your diminished quality of life, if your injuries keep you from doing activities you once enjoyed
- Your pain and suffering
- Your emotional distress, such as anxiety and PTSD
How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in Georgia?
In general, the deadline to file a dog bite lawsuit in Georgia is two years from the date of your injury. However, it’s crucial to speak to an attorney and start your legal case immediately after the attack. Critical evidence can disappear or deteriorate within a few days or weeks after a dog attack, and a lawyer can help you preserve this evidence. Talking to a dog bite lawyer from Bayuk Pratt as soon as possible helps protect your legal rights and gives you a stronger chance of recovering the money you need.
How Long Can It Take to Settle a Dog Bite Case?
The timeline of a dog bite case often varies depending on factors specific to each case. Claims involving more severe injuries tend to take longer because insurance companies want more time to review the case before approving a substantial claim. If there are disputes about fault or evidence, the case will likely take longer. Finally, dog bite cases will take more time if they go to trial, as trials involve lengthy preparation and complex legal procedures. Your Georgia dog bite attorney from Bayuk Pratt can review your case and tell you how long it might take.
What Is Georgia’s Dog Bite Law?
Georgia law says anyone who has a “vicious or dangerous animal” is liable for any injuries the animal causes through the owner’s carelessness or by letting the animal run free. So, if the owner knew or reasonably should have known their dog was dangerous, they are liable for whatever injuries the dog causes. For example, a prior bite would be evidence that the dog is dangerous.
Some people say Georgia’s dog bite laws constitute a “one-bite rule,” meaning dog owners essentially get one “free” bite before they are liable for a dog’s injuries. This is not entirely accurate. While a previous bite would be compelling evidence that a dog is vicious or dangerous, you can use other evidence to make a case for compensation.
Further, state law also says that a violation of local leash laws is enough evidence to demonstrate a dog is dangerous. Fulton County regulations say dog owners must keep their pets under their control at all times when they leave their home and use a leash no longer than six feet. The City of Atlanta has a similar law saying all dogs must be on a leash in all city parks, trails, and public spaces that aren’t dog parks. Your lawyer can help you find evidence to demonstrate a dog owner’s liability so you can claim fair compensation for your injuries.
Is the Dog Owner Responsible for Injuries from a Dog Attack in Georgia?
In general, dog owners are liable for injuries their pets cause in Georgia, whether on the dog owner’s property or on public land. If someone trespassed on the owner’s property and the dog bit them, they would have a hard time recovering compensation for their injuries. The same is true if someone provokes a dog.
There are times when someone other than a dog’s owner may be liable for a dog bite injury. For instance, if the owner had someone else watching or caring for the dog, that person might be liable if they allowed the dog to injure someone else. Your attorney can review your case to identify who’s liable for your dog bite injuries.
What if I Am Partly Responsible for a Dog Bite?
If you are partly responsible for a dog having bitten you, you still might have the right to partial compensation for your injuries. The critical factor is your degree of fault. Under Georgia’s comparative negligence laws, you can recover compensation for your injuries as long as your share of fault is less than 50 percent. However, your compensation in these circumstances is reduced by your degree of fault. If your level of fault is 50 percent or higher, you can’t recover any compensation.
What Are Common Injuries in Dog Bite Cases?
Dog bites in Georgia frequently lead to severe injuries, including:
- Puncture Wounds – Deep bites can puncture the skin and underlying tissues, leading to significant pain and a significant risk of infection.
- Lacerations – These deep cuts can cause heavy bleeding and may require stitches or surgery to heal properly.
Infections – Bacteria in a dog’s mouth can cause serious infections, like cellulitis or sepsis. - Nerve Damage – Bites on hands or limbs can damage nerves, leading to loss of sensation or function in the affected area.
- Broken Bones – Strong bites can fracture or break bones, particularly in the hands, arms, or legs.
Scarring – Severe bites can leave permanent scars, which may require cosmetic surgery to reduce. - Emotional Trauma – Dog bites can cause lasting emotional and psychological effects, including anxiety and fear of dogs.
