Understanding Georgia’s Dog Bite Laws: What You Need to Know
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Atlanta, Georgia, it is important to understand your rights and the laws that apply to dog bite incidents. In this blog, we will explore the basics of Georgia’s dog bite laws and what you need to know to protect your rights.
Georgia’s Strict Liability Law
Georgia is one of a few states that has a strict liability law for dog bites. This means that the owner of a dog is automatically responsible for any damages or injuries that result from a dog bite, regardless of whether the owner knew or should have known that the dog was dangerous.
Under Georgia law, a dog owner is strictly liable for any damages or injuries that result from a dog bite, as long as the victim was bitten while in a public place or while legally on private property. This means that even if the owner had no prior knowledge of the dog’s dangerous behavior, they can still be held responsible for any damages or injuries that result from a dog bite.
The One Bite Rule
It is important to note that Georgia’s strict liability law only applies to dog bites. If a victim is injured by a dog in a different manner, such as by being knocked over or chased, the owner may not be strictly liable for the damages or injuries that result.
In these cases, the victim may have to prove that the owner knew or should have known that the dog was dangerous and failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the accident from occurring. This is known as the “one-bite rule.”
Exceptions to the Strict Liability Law
There are a few exceptions to Georgia’s strict liability law for dog bites. For example, the owner of a dog may not be held responsible if the victim was bitten while committing a crime or while intentionally provoking the dog.
Additionally, if the victim was bitten while trespassing on private property, the owner may not be held responsible for the damages or injuries that result.
Compensation for Damages and Injuries
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Atlanta, Georgia, you may be entitled to compensation for the damages and injuries that result. This may include compensation for:
Medical expenses: This may include the cost of emergency medical treatment, surgery, hospitalization, and rehabilitation.
Pain and suffering: This may include compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress that result from the dog bite.
Lost wages: If the victim is unable to work due to the dog bite, they may be entitled to compensation for their lost wages.
Property damage: If the victim’s clothing or personal property was damaged in the dog bite incident, they may be entitled to compensation for the cost of repairs or replacement.
Protecting Your Rights
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Atlanta, Georgia, it is important to take the necessary steps to protect your rights. This may include:
Seeking medical attention: Your health and well-being should be your top priority after a dog bite incident. If you are bitten, seek medical attention immediately.
Gathering evidence: If you are able, gather as much information about the incident as possible. This may include taking photos of the bite wounds, obtaining the contact information of witnesses, and obtaining a copy of the police report.
Reporting the incident: Report the dog bite incident to the police and to the owner of the dog as soon as possible. This will help to ensure that a formal record of the incident is created, which can be used as evidence in your case.
How Jackson Hagood Can Help
Dog bite cases can be complex, so it is important to have an experienced attorney who understands the nuances of law on your side. Jackson Hagood can provide valuable guidance throughout the legal process and work to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your losses. If you have been personally injured, contact a qualified dog bite attorney today to discuss your case. If you’re loved one has been involved in a dog bite in Atlanta, it is important to speak with our experienced dog bite lawyers in Atlanta GA, to determine who is at fault. Jackson Hagood Injury Lawyers can help you investigate the circumstances of the accident and gather evidence to support your claim. Hire an experienced dog bite lawyer and get the justice you deserve. Contact us at (678) 335-5555 today for a free consultation.
