Smyrna Dog Bite Lawyer
Experts estimate that people have a 1 in 112,400 chance of dying from a dog bite, falling far below motor vehicle collisions and other accidents. However, statistics from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveal that there are still risks to people of all ages. More than 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs annually, and around 885,000 of them will require emergency care for their injuries. Though fatalities are rare, there are physical, financial, and emotional implications for survivors and their families.
If you were hurt by a dog bite or animal attack, you should be aware that Georgia personal injury laws provide you with legal options. With more than 25 years of combined experience advocating on behalf of victims, Zagoria Law is prepared to help you navigate the process. Please contact our firm to learn more about your rights. You can set up a no-cost consultation with a Smyrna dog bite lawyer for details, though an overview may be helpful.
Guide to Dog Bite Claims in Georgia
The state statute on dangerous dogs encompasses a mixed form of liability. Owners can be held accountable if they know or should know a dog is dangerous, and they fail to take proper precautions to secure the animal. This aspect of the law is akin to the “one-bite” rule, since a prior attack would put the owner on notice of the danger.
However, the other component of the statute does not require showing that the dog had been aggressive in the past. Owners of vicious dogs can be liable for injuries; one way of proving vicious propensities is evidence that the dog was not on a leash as required by local ordinance.
Note that you cannot recover compensation under Georgia’s dog bite law if you were trespassing or provoked the animal into attacking.
Compensation for Dog Bite Injuries
Georgia personal injury laws aim to make a victim whole after suffering harm, so monetary damages are measured in terms of losses. You may be eligible to recover amounts for:
- Medical costs, such as cosmetic surgery, hospitalization, physical therapy, and pain medications;
- Lost wages, if you were unable to work because of dog bite injuries;
- Pain and suffering;
- Emotional distress; and
- Scarring and disfigurement.
The first step for our Smyrna dog bite attorneys at Zagoria Law will be filing an insurance claim and attempting to reach a settlement agreement. Keep in mind that the company will put its own interests first, not yours. Your claim could be denied, or the insurer may offer an amount insufficient to cover your losses. If the company refuses to pay, we will take your case to court.
Set up a Free Consultation with an Experienced Smyrna Dog Bite Lawyer
It is helpful to know that monetary damages are available under Georgia law, but the legal process can be complex. You can count on Zagoria Law for assistance with the important tasks, so please contact us to schedule a free case assessment with a Smyrna dog bite attorney. You can reach our office by calling 404.653.0023 or visiting us online.
