Dog bite injuries affect thousands of people across Georgia every year. Children, mail carriers, delivery drivers, and joggers are among the most common victims. If you have been bitten or attacked by a dog in Athens or anywhere in Georgia, you may have the right to compensation from the dog's owner.
Georgia Dog Bite Law Explained
Georgia's dog bite statute, O.C.G.A. 51-2-7, is different from the strict liability rules in many other states. In Georgia, the injured person generally needs to prove one of these factors:
- The dog was considered "vicious" or "dangerous" and the owner knew about it
- The owner violated a local leash law or animal control ordinance
- The owner was careless in managing or restraining the dog
This is sometimes called the "modified one-bite rule." If a dog has shown aggressive behavior before - growling at neighbors, lunging at people, or biting someone previously - the owner is on notice that the animal is dangerous. Letting that dog roam free or failing to control it can make the owner liable for any injuries that follow.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bites can cause serious physical and emotional harm, including:
- Deep puncture wounds and lacerations that require stitches or surgery
- Infections, including potentially life-threatening conditions like rabies or MRSA
- Nerve damage and loss of function in hands, fingers, or limbs
- Scarring and disfigurement, particularly on the face and arms
- Emotional trauma, anxiety, and PTSD - especially in children
Key stat: According to the Insurance Information Institute, dog bite claims cost an average of over $58,000 per claim in the United States. Severe attacks involving children or facial injuries often result in much higher compensation.
Recovering Compensation for a Dog Bite
If you have been bitten by a dog in Georgia, you may be able to recover compensation for:
- Medical treatment, including emergency care, surgery, and follow-up visits
- Plastic surgery or reconstructive procedures for scarring
- Lost wages from time missed at work
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Counseling for trauma and anxiety
Many dog bite claims are covered by the dog owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance policy. A personal injury attorney can help identify all available sources of coverage and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
Wells and McElwee, P.C. helps dog bite victims in Athens, Oconee County, and throughout Northeast Georgia pursue the compensation they deserve.
| Bitten by a dog in Georgia? Request a free case review to learn about your legal options. |
