Peachtree City Dog Bite Lawyer

Fighting For Dog Bite Victims in Fayetteville, Newnan, Tyrone & Fairburn

When a dog bites, the injuries can be severe. In addition to the physical trauma, dog bite victims often suffer from emotional trauma and may develop a lifelong fear of dogs. If a dog bit you or your child, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

At Anderson Law, we understand the devastating effects of dog bites. Our Peachtree City dog bite attorney can help you understand your rights and fight for the maximum compensation you are owed. We have a proven track record of success and are prepared to put our experience to work for you.

Call (404) 418-9435 or contact us online to request a free, no-obligation consultation with our dog bite injury lawyer in Peachtree City.

Georgia's Dog Bite Statute

Georgia has a specific statute that addresses dog bites and other dog-related injuries. Under Georgia Code section 51-2-7, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their dogs. This means that, in most cases, you do not need to prove that the dog owner was negligent to recover compensation for your injuries.

Under Georgia’s dog bite law, you must prove the following:

• The dog was vicious or dangerous
• The dog owner knew or should have known that the dog was vicious or dangerous
• The dog owner carelessly managed the dog or allowed it to “go at liberty”
• You did not provoke the dog

It is important to note that Georgia’s dog bite law only applies to injuries caused by dog bites. If you were injured by a dog in another way, such as being knocked over by a large dog, you may still be able to recover compensation, but you will need to prove that the dog owner was negligent. 

Common Causes of Dog Bite Accidents

Dog bite accidents can occur under various circumstances, often due to the dog's behavior or the negligence of its owner. Understanding the common causes can help prevent such incidents and establish liability when they occur.

• Lack of Proper Training: Dogs that are not properly trained can exhibit aggressive behavior, leading to bites. Owners who fail to adequately train their pets are often liable for attacks.
• Provocation: While many dog bites occur unprovoked, some may happen when a dog feels threatened or provoked. However, it is the owner's responsibility to ensure their dog is under control and not put in situations where it might feel the need to bite.
• Poor Socialization: Dogs that are not socialized from a young age may react aggressively towards unfamiliar people or animals. Proper socialization is crucial in preventing such aggressive behaviors.
• Neglect or Abuse: Dogs that are neglected or abused are more likely to bite. Neglect can lead to fear and anxiety in dogs, causing them to lash out unpredictably.
• Protective Behavior: Dogs can protect their territory, owners, or possessions. This protective instinct can lead to bites if a dog perceives a threat.

Common Injuries in Dog Bite Accidents

Some of the most common injuries include:

• Puncture Wounds: Dog teeth can puncture the skin deeply, causing significant pain and risk of infection. Puncture wounds often require medical attention to clean the wound and prevent complications.
• Lacerations: Bites can cause deep cuts or tears in the skin, which might need stitches or even surgical intervention to heal properly. These injuries can also lead to significant scarring.
• Infections: Dog mouths contain bacteria that can cause serious infections like cellulitis or sepsis if not treated promptly. Rabies is also a concern, especially if the dog's vaccination status is unknown.
• Nerve Damage: Severe bites can damage nerves, leading to loss of function or sensation in the affected area. Nerve damage might require long-term treatment and rehabilitation.
• Broken Bones: A powerful bite can crush or fracture bones, especially in the hands and arms, which are often used to fend off an attacking dog.
• Emotional Trauma: The psychological effect of a dog attack can be profound, resulting in conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and fear of dogs.
• Facial Injuries: When bites occur to the face, they can cause disfigurement and require extensive reconstructive surgery. Facial injuries are particularly distressing due to their visibility and the impact on a victim's appearance.