Dog Bites in Georgia Are Common

People are bitten by dogs more often than you think. According to the Center for Disease Control, there are on average over 4.5 million dog bites per year with at least 800,000 resulting in injury or death. Even a small dog can cause serious injuries or risk of infection when they bite.

Most dog bites are preventable but frequently occur due the pet owners own negligence. Typically dogs that attack humans typically have bitten someone before. If you were injured by a dog or other animal, you may be entitled to compensation. Dog bites can cause serious injuries or disfigurement. The attack itself can also have a traumatic impact leading to emotional distress. 

In Georgia, in order to establish liability for the dog’s owner, there are 3 things that must be proven:

• 1. The owner was careless or reckless;
• 2. The dog has a propensity to be dangerous or is vicious; and 
• 3. The dog was not provoked. 

Here is what you need to know if you were attacked by a dog or other animal:

• First, always seek medical attention: The first thing you need to if injured by a dog or other animal is to seek proper medical attention. Some injuries may appear to be minor but dogs can and do carry diseases that may also cause a serious infection. 
• Get information on the dog that bit you: If you can safely identify the dog that bit you, gather as much information as you can. It is essential that you identify the owner and get their contact information. 
• Report the incident: It’s important that you report the attack to the police or the local animal control agency in the area. This will help to prevent similar attacks by the same dog in the future. It will also provide a record of the incident and determine if other similar reports have been made concerning the same owner. 
• Take pictures and collect evidence: When it is safe to do so, take as many picture of not only your injuries but also the scene of the accident from all viewpoints. Take pictures of your injuries immediately before you seek medical attention. A written or video recording taken on the day of the injuries of the impact the injuries had on you at that time will help establish damages. 
• Do not sign anything with an insurance company without talking to a lawyer first:
• Insurance companies try to quickly settle these type of cases; particularly when liability is undisputed. Do not sign anything without the guidance of an attorney who can help ensure that you receive adequate compensation for your injuries. 

Although the law in Georgia is geared towards actual bites, you may be eligible for compensation for other animal-related injuries as well. Our office can evaluate your case and determine if you would be eligible for compensation.