Lesser-Known Dog Bite Liability Rules
Dog bites can result in serious injuries and legal battles. While many people are aware that owners can be held liable for their pets’ actions, there are specific nuances in Georgia’s dog bite laws that might surprise you. Understanding these lesser-known rules can be crucial if you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog. A skilled Atlanta dog bite lawyer can navigate these complexities on your behalf and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
One-Bite Rule and Negligence Per Se
A surprising aspect of Georgia’s dog bite laws is the one-bite rule, which essentially states that a dog owner may not be held liable for a bite if it is the first time the dog has bitten someone, provided the owner had no reason to believe the dog was dangerous.
In other words, a dog owner is only liable if they knew or should have known that their dog had a propensity for aggression. This rule means that if a dog has never shown aggressive behavior before and bites someone for the first time, the owner might not be held responsible. This can be frustrating for victims, as proving the owner’s knowledge of the dog’s aggression can be challenging.
Another lesser-known aspect is the concept of negligence per se, a rule that applies when a dog owner violates a local ordinance or state law regarding the control or confinement of dogs, and that violation leads to a bite. For example, if a local law requires dogs to be on a leash and an owner lets their dog roam freely, leading to a bite, the owner can be held liable regardless of whether the dog has bitten before. This makes it easier for victims to prove negligence and secure compensation.
Lawyers Have In-Depth Knowledge of State Laws
Moving through Georgia’s dog bite laws as a victim can be complex and daunting, especially when dealing with injuries and the emotional aftermath of an attack. Experienced lawyers understand the intricacies of Georgia’s dog bite statutes and can effectively interpret how they apply to your case. They can identify the nuances of the one-bite rule, negligence per se, and other relevant legal principles to build a strong case on your behalf.
Plus, proving that an owner knew of their dog’s aggressive tendencies or violated local ordinances is not always simple. A seasoned Atlanta dog bite lawyer has the expertise to gather evidence, such as witness statements, veterinary records, and prior complaints, to establish the owner’s liability.
Attorneys are also familiar with how insurance companies try to minimize payouts in dog bite cases. Keeping this knowledge in mind, they can negotiate effectively on our behalf, ensuring that you receive fair compensation. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will be prepared to take your case to court.
Are you interested in holding a dog owner accountable for your bite injury? There are lesser-known aspects of liability that can significantly impact the outcome of a case, talk to the attorneys at Zagoria Law to explore paths forward. Contact us to discuss your case.
