Broken Fencing and Dog Attacks
A strong, secure fence is one of the most important safety measures a dog owner can have. When fencing is broken, poorly maintained, or completely absent, it creates a serious risk of a dog escaping and attacking someone.
In Georgia, dog owners have a responsibility to keep their pets contained. If they fail to do so and someone is injured, it’s important to talk to an Atlanta dog bite lawyer about who can be held liable for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
How Fencing Failures Lead to Dog Attacks
When a dog escapes from a yard, it’s often because of preventable safety failures. A weak or rotting wooden fence may collapse under pressure. Chain-link fences with gaps or holes can allow a determined dog to slip through. Gates that don’t latch properly or are left open create easy escape routes. Some owners assume their dog will stay within an invisible electric fence, but if the system malfunctions or the battery dies, there’s nothing stopping the dog from running into the street or attacking a passerby.
In one Atlanta case, a man was out for a morning jog when a large dog suddenly charged at him from a nearby yard. The dog had escaped through a broken section of fencing that the owner had ignored for months, despite previous complaints from neighbors. The jogger suffered deep bite wounds and had to undergo multiple medical treatments. Because the dog had no prior history of aggression, the owner initially denied responsibility. Yet it was later proven that the broken fence had been a known issue, and the court ruled that the owner’s negligence made him liable for the victim’s injuries.
In short, if an attack occurred due to the owner’s negligence, such as failing to fix a broken fence, the victim can pursue compensation. Even if a dog has never bitten anyone before, an owner who fails to secure their pet properly could be found legally responsible.
Landlords can also be held accountable in certain situations. If a rental property has a damaged fence and the landlord refuses to fix it, leading to a tenant’s dog escaping and biting someone, both the tenant and the landlord could face legal consequences.
What to Do After a Dog Attack
If you or a loved one is attacked by a dog that escaped due to a broken fence, take immediate action. First, seek medical attention to treat your injuries. Dog bites can lead to infections and other complications, so prompt care is crucial.
Next, document the scene by taking photos of the broken fence or open gate and gather witness statements if possible. Report the incident to local authorities, such as animal control or the police, to create an official record. Finally, consult an experienced Atlanta dog bite lawyer to understand your rights and explore legal options for obtaining compensation.
Have you been injured in what you see as a preventable dog attack? Have a conversation with the attorneys at Zagoria Law to discuss your case and seek the justice you deserve. Contact us today to learn more.
