Carrollton Dog Bite Lawyer
Dog bites do not rank high in terms of fatalities in the US, but statistics reveal that injuries are still a cause for concern. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), more than 17,000 victims file insurance claims related to dog bite injuries annually. In sum, these claims cost homeowners’ insurers $854 million to cover emergency treatment, other medical costs, and pain and suffering. If you suffered dog bite injuries, you may also qualify to file an insurance claim under Georgia personal injury laws. However, you may not know where to begin with enforcing your rights.
You can trust our team at Zagoria Law to handle the legal process and get the compensation you deserve under Georgia dog bite laws. We have three decades of combined experience representing victims, so we are prepared to file an insurance claim and pursue other remedies. Please contact our firm to schedule a free consultation with a Carrollton dog bite lawyer today. A summary may also help you understand the basics.
Synopsis of Georgia Dog Bite Laws
Georgia is one of a few US states that has a statute covering dog bites and animal attacks. Owners are liable for vicious dogs when they know or should know that the animal is dangerous and prone to aggression. One way to prove the vicious propensities is presenting evidence that the dog had bitten in the past, but another is not having the dog on a leash when required by local ordinance.
However, you should note the following limitations on Georgia dog bite laws:
- The statute of limitation is two years, so you must file a lawsuit before it expires.
- You cannot recover compensation if you provoked the dog.
- If you were trespassing when attacked, you are barred from seeking monetary damages for your losses.
Get Legal Help with Your Dog Bite Claim
A summary of the laws is informative, but it is still wise to retain a Carrollton dog bite attorney for assistance with the legal process. You will be dealing with an insurance company initially and may be able to settle your claim out of court. However, insurers focus on maximizing profits and minimizing losses. Your claim represents a loss, so the company may deny it or make a lowball counteroffer. If the insurer refuses to pay a fair amount in damages, the next step is filing a lawsuit in court.
Zagoria Law will handle the important legal tasks involved with a dog bite claim, including:
- Investigating and gathering evidence;
- Preparing forms to file an insurance claim;
- Discussing settlement options with the insurance company;
- Drafting documents to initiate litigation; and
- Representing you in court.
A Carrollton Dog Bite Lawyer Will Guide You Through the Legal Process
If you were hurt in an animal attack, please contact Zagoria Law to learn more about your rights and remedies. You can set up a no-cost case assessment by calling 404.653.0023 or visiting us online. After reviewing your situation, a Carrollton dog bite attorney can advise you on next steps.