Dog bite injuries can be devastating, requiring expensive medical treatment. Victims often need months to recover and may be left with permanent scars. Fortunately, Georgia law holds dog owners responsible for their pet’s actions. When you are injured in a dog attack, you may be entitled to compensation.
As dedicated personal injury attorneys, our team has helped clients across the state file claims against those responsible for their injuries. When you get bit by a canine, be sure to seek medical attention immediately and contact a Doraville dog bite lawyer to discuss your next steps. Our legal professionals could advise you of your legal options and explain the relevant laws regarding pet owner liability.
Liability for Dog Bites
When a dog bite happens, the injured person must prove that the dog owner knew of the animal’s aggressive behavior. In Georgia, dog owners are liable only if they had reason to know of their animal’s dangerous tendencies. If the owner acted carelessly or did not properly supervise their pet, they could be held responsible.
Proving liability in dog bite cases can be complex. A successful claim requires proof of the dog’s vicious tendencies. This can be achieved several ways, including showing a history of prior bites, threatening behavior, or attacks on other animals. A Doraville dog bite attorney could review local animal control records and police reports to investigate whether the owner had reason to know of their aggressive temperament.
Compensation for a Dog Bite Claim
Dog bite injuries can require expensive medical treatment, including reconstructive surgery. Those who sustain dog bite injuries can pursue compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. If the animal’s owner has liability insurance, they may settle with the injured person to avoid litigation. Recoverable damages in a dog bite case could include:
- Medical care
- Disfigurement
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Lost income or earning potential
Dog bites and attacks frequently leave people with serious scarring and other wounds. Compensation must account for the severity and cost of treating such injuries. An animal attack attorney in Doraville helps injured people pursue a claim either through the dog owner’s insurance or by filing a lawsuit.
Modified Comparative Negligence in Dog Bite Cases
What happens when someone is bitten by a dog, despite the owner placing warning signs and taking precautions to prevent an attack? Even though the injured person was hurt, they could be contributorily negligent for their harm in this scenario.
In shared fault cases, the state applies a modified comparative negligence approach, which means that if the person who was bitten by a dog was partially to blame, they could recover compensation as long as they were less than fifty percent responsible. Damages will be reduced based on the injured person’s percentage of shared fault. For example, if someone would have been awarded $10,000 but they are determined to be 30 percent at fault, they will only receive $7,000. A trusted attorney in Doraville could help someone who is bitten by a dog refute allegations of shared fault to maximize their potential compensation.
Contact a Doraville Dog Bite Attorney for Help
When you are injured in a dog attack, you need legal representation. A Doraville dog bite lawyer could help you hold the owner responsible for your injuries. While it is possible to handle the claim on your own, it is wise to hire an attorney. Proving fault in dog bite cases can be complicated as it involves the owner’s actions and the animal’s previous conduct. Plus, the dog’s owner may attempt to dispute their liability by claiming you were also negligent.
At Robert James Trial Attorneys, our dedicated team members are familiar with Georgia’s dog bite laws and could apply our knowledge and resources to pursue a favorable outcome in your case. Our extensive trial experience is what sets us apart from the pack. Contact us to schedule a free and confidential consultation.
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