We Offer Trusted, Trial-Tested Representation For Dog-Bite Victims

For millions of Americans, dogs are beloved pets and members of the family. Unfortunately, while most are gentle and loving, some also have a vicious side. Of more than 4 million dog bites that occur each year in the United States, nearly one in five are serious enough to require treatment at a hospital or other medical facility. Many victims are children.

If you or your child were bitten or otherwise attacked by someone else’s dog, contact Athens Injury Law. Our firm is devoted entirely to personal injury law, and we offer clients experienced, knowledgeable and personalized representation. To date, we’ve helped recover more than $75 million on behalf of injury victims and families who have lost a loved one to another’s negligence. We want to help you, too.

Dog-Bite Injuries Can Be Serious Or Catastrophic

Many people have been nipped by a dog who was playing or was annoyed, but actual dog attacks are far more serious. They can (and often do) result in:

• Broken bones
• Deep gashes and profuse bleeding
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Serious infections
• Cuts and bruises
• Post-traumatic stress disorder and other psychological injuries
• Permanent disability
• Death (particularly when victims are children or elderly)

When our attorneys take your case, they will help you carefully calculate all of the costs related to the dog attack, including current and future medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, reduced enjoyment of life and more. They will then aggressively advocate to help you claim maximum compensation through a negotiated settlement or a jury trial.

When Dog Owners Can Be Held Liable In Georgia

Many states have what’s known as a “one-bite rule.” Under this principle, a dog owner generally won’t be held liable the first time their dog attacks someone because they didn’t have reason to know or suspect that their dog was dangerous. In essence, the first person to get bitten is out of luck.

Georgia recognizes the one-bite rule but has added some important modifications. In Georgia, a dog owner can be held liable after their animal attacks someone if:

• The animal had previously bitten someone else
• The animal had previously displayed aggressive behaviors that also indicated a future attack was likely
• The owner was careless and allowed the animal to escape from their property or otherwise failed to take reasonable precautions to prevent the attack
• If the dog is away from its owner’s property and in violation of a leash law

Why It Is Important To Work With A Skilled Attorney

As you can see, Georgia’s dog-bite laws are friendlier to dog owners than they are to attack victims. It is possible to prove owner negligence and liability, but you may have significant difficulty doing this on your own.

Our attorneys have nearly 50 years of combined legal experience. They know how to gather and present compelling evidence, and they know how to combat the tricks insurance companies use to deny claims and avoid taking responsibility. When you work with our firm, we do this hard work for you so that you can focus on taking care of yourself and your loved ones.

Tell Us Your Story And Learn How We Can Help

At Athens Injury Law, we take all personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis – you owe no legal fees if we don’t help you recover money. We also make it easy and no-risk to explore your legal options by offering free initial consultations. To schedule yours, call the firm today at 706-940-7889 or submit an online contact form. We serve clients across Georgia.