Savannah Dog Bite Lawyer

Dogs are wonderful pets, and many consider them part of the family. However, even the friendliest dog may bite or attack people, particularly children or those who are unfamiliar, when they feel fear, anxiety, or threatened. Pet owners have a legal responsibility and duty to protect the public from harm.

If you or a loved one were injured by a dog bite or attack, you may be eligible for monetary damages from the responsible party with help from a qualified personal injury attorney. Contact a Savannah dog bite lawyer to schedule an over-the-phone consultation and learn more about the recovery claims process.

Types of Injuries

Some common injuries people sustain from dog bites include the following:

• Scrapes, scratches and abrasions
• Bruising and swelling caused by blunt force trauma
• Puncture wounds caused by penetration of the skin, with a high potential for infection
• Bacterial infections in cuts and lacerations
• Jagged tears and deep lacerations that may cause substantial bleeding
• Crushing injuries, damaging bones, muscles, and other organs from the dog’s powerful jaws
• Tendon and nerve damage, which can temporarily or permanently affect sensation and movement
• Severe psychological trauma leading to emotional distress, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder; young children are particularly at risk for lasting trauma

A Savannah dog bite attorney could investigate to help gather the crucial evidence needed to prove negligence and collect a fair settlement.

Dog Bite Liability Statute

The civil court will hold the pet owner financially accountable for the damages caused by the bite when the case proves the following conditions were present:

• The dog attacked the victim without provocation
• There is evidence to support that the defendant knew or should have known about the dog’s potential to become vicious
• The dog owner’s negligence, such as failure to use a leash, led to the attack and damages

The legislation defines vicious dogs as those who inflict severe injuries directly related to the bite or if they suffer harm while trying to get away from the animal. According to the Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 51-2-7, any person in the state with a dangerous or vicious dog must protect the public by keeping the animal fenced or on a leash at all times. When pet owner carelessness leads to an unprovoked attack, and someone sustains damages, the owner or person responsible is legally and financially liable for covering the costs.

Requirements

When dogs have a history of aggression, the state may classify them as vicious. The owner has a legal duty to obtain a certificate of registration from animal control. Approval for the document requires meeting specific requirements, such as adhering to the guidelines to restrain the animal.

The One-Bite Rule

The state follows a revised version of the one-bite rule, and if the dog has a history of aggression, they are strictly liable for the damages under specific circumstances. If the attack results in substantial puncture wounds, poses an imminent threat of severe injuries, or kills the pets of others, they must cover the losses. Examples of recoverable damages include medical care, lost salary, emotional trauma, and permanent scarring or disfigurement. A skilled dog bite lawyer in Savannah could review the applicable statutes and answer questions about the process.

Schedule a Consultation Today with a Knowledgeable Dog Bite Attorney in Savannah

Dog bites can leave you with painful injuries that have a high potential for infection. They are also traumatic, and injured people suffer psychological damages, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, that may require ongoing treatment. When the carelessness of pet owners causes you harm, personal injury regulations require they cover the damages.

However, the civil court process can often feel confusing and frustrating when undertaking the procedure alone. A hard-working Savannah dog bite lawyer could help you through the process with sound legal advice and guidance and advocate for a just settlement. Call us today to schedule an appointment.