Georgia's Dog Bite Statute: A Brief Overview

Georgia law recognizes the potential danger that dogs can pose and provides specific statutes to protect dog bite victims. Under the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.) § 51-2-7, a dog owner may be held liable for injuries caused by their dog if:

  • The dog is considered "vicious" or "dangerous";
  • The owner was careless in managing the dog or allowed it to roam free in violation of local leash laws; and
  • The injured person did not provoke the dog.

Establishing Liability in a Georgia Dog Bite Case

In order to establish liability in a dog bite case in Georgia, the following elements must be proven:

  1. The injured person must show that the dog had a history of vicious or dangerous behavior, which the owner knew or should have known about;
  2. The injured person must prove that the dog owner was negligent in controlling or managing the dog, or that the owner violated a local ordinance, such as a leash law; and
  3. The injured person must demonstrate that they did not provoke the dog into attacking.

Types of Compensation Available for Dog Bite Victims

Victims of dog bites in Georgia may be eligible for several types of compensation, including:

  • Medical expenses (past and future);
  • Lost wages and loss of earning capacity;
  • Pain and suffering;
  • Emotional distress; and
  • Disfigurement or permanent scarring.

Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Claims in Georgia

It is important to note that Georgia imposes a strict deadline for filing a dog bite injury claim. Under Georgia law, victims have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Failure to file within this time frame may result in the loss of your right to pursue compensation.

Common Types of Injuries in Dog Bite Cases

Dog bite injuries can range from minor to severe, depending on various factors such as the size and breed of the dog, the location of the bite, and the force of the attack. Some of the most common types of injuries seen in dog bite cases include:

  • Puncture Wounds: Puncture wounds are often caused by the dog's sharp teeth penetrating the skin. These wounds can be deep, leading to damage to muscles, nerves, and even bones. Puncture wounds also pose a risk of infection if not properly treated.
  • Lacerations and Abrasions: Lacerations are deep cuts or tears in the skin, while abrasions are more superficial scrapes. Both can result from a dog bite and may require stitches or other medical intervention to heal properly.
  • Crushing Injuries: When a dog bites down with significant force, it can cause crushing injuries to the underlying soft tissue, bones, and joints. These injuries can lead to long-term complications, such as reduced range of motion or even permanent disability.
  • Avulsions: An avulsion occurs when a dog's bite tears away skin, muscle, or other tissue from the underlying structure. In severe cases, reconstructive surgery may be necessary to repair the damage.
  • Fractures: Dog bites can cause fractures, particularly in smaller bones such as those in the hand, wrist, or foot. Fractures may require immobilization, surgery, or physical therapy to heal properly.
  • Nerve Damage: Bites that penetrate deep into the tissue can damage nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the affected area. In some cases, nerve damage can be permanent.
  • Infections: Dog bites carry a risk of infection, as bacteria from the dog's mouth or the victim's skin can enter the wound. Infections can lead to complications such as cellulitis, abscesses, or even life-threatening conditions like sepsis if not properly treated.
  • Emotional and Psychological Trauma: Dog bite victims may experience emotional and psychological trauma as a result of the attack. This can manifest as anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or a fear of dogs. In some cases, professional counseling may be necessary to help the victim cope with these emotional consequences.

Contact Our Experienced Georgia Dog Bite Attorneys Today

If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite injury in Georgia, it is crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. At [Law Firm Name], our compassionate and experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping dog bite victims recover the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.