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If you were injured in a dog bite incident, you may not know where to turn or how to recover compensation for your medical bills and other damages. At the Hines Law Firm, a dog bite injury lawyer can help you pursue compensation to cover the cost of medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. We know how this type of incident can impact a victim financially, physically, and emotionally, and we want to help you recover a fair settlement for the harm you have suffered. Postal workers aren't the only ones who can be a dog-bite victim from guard dogs. Canine companions are wonderful but we shouldn't forget that they can create an unfortunate experience if they haven't received proper training.
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Modified One Bite Rule
Georgia follows a modified one-bite rule. In Georgia, the dog’s owner is liable for a dog bite if they knew their animal was vicious. The dog owner has a duty of care for the public when they're out with their dog. The dog’s owner can be held liable if they were careless or the attack was unprovoked. To hold the dog’s owner liable for damages, the injured party must prove that the dog had a vicious predisposition, the owner knew their animal was dangerous or should have known there could be future attacks, and allowed the animal to roam free, or the animal was negligently managed. Pit bulls and bull terriers get a bad rap for being aggressive dog breeds, but all breeds of dogs can be dangerous breeds if they don't receive proper training.
The injured party can also hold the owner liable if they weren't following leash laws and the animal was not on a leash in public at the time of the attack.
How Can a Dog Bite Lawyer Prove Liability?
Your dog bite lawyer will need to provide proof in court or when negotiating with the insurance company that the dog owner was the negligent party. Dog-bite coverage typically falls under homeowners insurance policies.
Proof can include the following types of evidence:
- Animal control records
- Vet records
- Testimony from witnesses or a previous victim
- Records of complaints regarding the dog
- Video footage
Your attorney must also provide proof of the severity of your injuries, using evidence such as expert testimony, photos of your attack injuries, and your medical bills and medical records.
Why Choose Hines Law Firm?
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20+ Years of Experience
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All Initial Consultations are Free
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Consistent Communication & Full Transparency
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Recovered Millions of Dollars
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Maximize Recovery of Damages
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What to Do After a Dog Attack
If you are attacked by a dog, taking the following steps can protect your health and your rights:
01Seek Medical Treatment
If you suffered severe injuries, contact 911. Even if your injuries are not life-threatening, you must seek medical attention as soon as possible.
02Report the Attack
Contact the police department or your local animal control to report the incident. Provide details regarding the animal’s description, the location of the attack, and the circumstances surrounding the attack.
03Exchange Information with the Dog’s Owner
If you can identify the dog’s owner, exchange contact information. Obtain their full name, phone number, address, and insurance information.
04Document the Attack
Take photos of your injuries and the location of the attack, and write down what led up to the attack. If anyone witnessed the incident, obtain their contact information.
05Follow Your Doctor’s Treatment Advice
Follow all medical treatment advice and make it to every appointment. Keep medical records of all treatment received.
06Contact a Dog Bite Attorney
Contact a dog bite lawyer as soon as possible for legal recourse. A knowledgeable lawyer can advise you on how to proceed with your case and what your legal rights and options are.
What Types Of Injuries Can a Dog Attack Cause?
A dog attack can cause a wide range of injuries. From emotional scarring to physical pain, dog bites can lead to major injuries. The severity of these injuries can depend on the number and location of the bites and the size and breed of the dog.
Common injuries sustained in a dog bite attack include:
01Puncture Wounds
Dog bites can cause deep puncture wounds. Puncture wounds are deep injuries caused by the dog’s teeth penetrating the skin. These deep, narrow injuries penetrate the skin and underlying tissues.
02Lacerations
Lacerations are cuts or tears in the skin and soft tissues.
03Contusions
Blunt force trauma from a dog’s jaws or teeth can result in contusions.
04Fractures and Broken Bones
Severe attacks can result in fractures or broken bones, especially if the victim is knocked to the ground or thrown against objects.
05Nerve Damage
Nerve damage can occur if a dog’s teeth penetrate deeply or if there is significant trauma to the affected area.
06Infections
A dog bite can introduce bacteria and other pathogens into the body, causing a severe infection.
07Scarring and Disfigurement
A dog bite can cause permanent scarring and disfigurement, especially if the injuries affect highly visible areas of the body, such as the face, neck, or hands.
What is the Statute Of Limitations in Georgia?
IIf you were injured in a dog attack, you will have two years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit and pursue maximum compensation. If you fail to file a lawsuit within this time frame, your case may be dismissed and you will be unable to recover any compensation.
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Contact Us Today!
If you were injured in an accident that was caused by the negligent actions of another, contact a personal injury lawyer at the Hines Law Firm today to get legal advice on what to do next. We have decades of experience representing accident victims. Let our legal team guide you through the complex legal process, every step of the way and help recover the compensation you deserve, as soon as possible. Our law office works on a contingency basis which means that you won't pay anything unless your bite claim is won. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to learn more.
