Mark Casto | September 11, 2025 | Dog Bite Lawyer Near Columbus, Georgia
Dog ownership comes with responsibilities, not only to the pet but also to the public. In Georgia, leash laws and dog bite statutes are designed to protect individuals from injuries caused by uncontrolled or dangerous dogs.
When a dog bite occurs, the consequences can be severe and long-lasting. Knowing the laws governing dog ownership in Georgia is crucial for pet owners and victims of dog bites.
Georgia’s Leash Laws
Georgia does not have a statewide leash law, but many counties and municipalities have enacted their own regulations requiring dogs to be restrained in public spaces. These local ordinances often mandate that dogs be on a leash no longer than six feet outside the owner’s property or in a public area.
In Columbus, local ordinances require pet owners to maintain control over their dogs at all times and not leave their dogs unattended. This includes keeping the dog on a leash or within a secured area like a fenced yard. Violating these local leash laws can lead to citations, fines, or more serious legal consequences if the dog injures someone while off-leash.
Georgia’s “One Bite Rule”
Georgia follows a modified version of what is commonly referred to as the “one bite rule.”
To hold a dog owner liable for a dog bite injury, the victim must typically prove one of the following:
- The dog had a history of aggressive behavior, or the owner knew (or should have known) the dog was dangerous.
- The dog was not under proper restraint, thereby violating a leash law or other local ordinance at the time of the attack.
This standard is laid out in O.C.G.A. § 51-2-7, which states that a dog owner may be held liable if they “carelessly manage” a “vicious or dangerous animal,” or if the dog was not at heel or on a leash as required by local ordinances.
Importantly, Georgia law does not require the dog to have bitten someone previously for it to be considered dangerous. Prior aggressive behavior such as lunging, growling, or attempted attacks may be enough to put an owner on notice that their dog poses a risk.
Evidence such as witness testimony, animal control reports, medical records, prior complaints, and surveillance footage can play a crucial role in establishing liability.
Damages Available in a Dog Bite Case in Georgia
Victims of dog bites may be entitled to compensation for their economic and non-economic damages. These losses should account for an individual’s financial and nonfinancial losses related to a dog bite.
Examples include:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Disfigurement or permanent scarring
In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded if the dog owner’s conduct was especially reckless or malicious. A classic example is if the owner ordered the dog to attack without justification.
Contact the Columbus Dog Bite Lawyers at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm for Help Today
Dog bite cases can be complex. Insurance companies may try to minimize claims or deny liability altogether, especially if there’s any dispute about leash law violations or whether the dog had previously shown signs of aggression. An experienced personal injury attorney can gather evidence and navigate the legal system to ensure victims receive fair compensation.
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Georgia, contact Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm today to speak with a skilled Columbus personal injury lawyer. We’re here to help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm
233 12th St #808, Columbus, GA 31901
(706) 940-4030
