Mark Casto | August 14, 2025 | Dog Bite Lawyer Near Columbus, Georgia
If you have suffered an injury from a dog bite, you probably have many questions. You may be wondering who is going to pay for your medical bills and other losses, and the pain of your injuries only makes the situation worse. Keep reading below to learn answers to some of the most common questions that our Columbus dog bite lawyers hear.
What Is Georgia’s Dog Bite Law?
Some states follow the “one free bite” rule, while others have strict liability for dog owners. Georgia falls somewhat in the middle because it follows a modified one-bite rule. Under Georgia law, an owner may be held strictly liable for injuries if they knew or should have known that the dog had aggressive or dangerous tendencies.
Once an owner has this knowledge, they can be held responsible for injuries resulting from a bite as long as the dog was not provoked. Additionally, if the owner violates a local ordinance, such as a leash law, they can be held responsible if a victim suffers injuries because of this violation.
What Types of Damages Are Available to Victims of Dog Bites in Columbus, GA?
Dog bite victims are typically entitled to recover both economic damages and non-economic damages. This means that they can be compensated for their financial losses as well as their physical and emotional trauma. Some common examples of economic damages available in these cases include:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Doctor visits
- Surgery
- Prescription and over-the-counter medication
- Medical supplies, such as bandages or wound care items
- Physical therapy
- Rehabilitation
- Medical equipment or devices
- Lost wages
- Diminished earning capacity
In most cases, it is fairly easy to put a dollar figure on these losses. You likely have bills, receipts, or other documentation to prove the specific amount of these losses. On the other hand, non-economic damages are much more subjective. Some common examples of these intangible losses include:
- Pain and suffering
- PTSD
- Emotional distress or mental anguish
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Diminished quality of life
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Permanent scarring
It can be much more challenging to put a specific dollar figure on the value of your non-economic losses. In some cases, these damages may be worth as much as 5 times the value of your economic damages. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you assess your damages and maximize your financial recovery.
What Causes Most Dog Bite Incidents?
Dog bites can happen for a variety of different reasons. In some cases, dogs may bite or attack for seemingly no reason at all. However, dogs with a history or signs of aggression are usually much more likely to attack. Some of the most common reasons why a dog may bite include:
- Aggression
- Territorial protection
- Illness or injury
- Pain
- Sudden movement
- Loud noises
Small children can sometimes be unpredictable with their movements. This is why children can be especially susceptible to dog bites. Dog owners should always be extra cautious when bringing their dog around children or allowing children to pet their dog.
What Types of Injuries Do Most Dog Bite Victims Suffer?
Dog bites can result in severe and even catastrophic injuries. A dog’s sharp teeth can puncture the skin and damage muscle and tendons. If bitten in the wrong spot, such as the face or around the eyes, the effects of a dog bite can be devastating. Victims may be left dealing with the unfortunate effects of serious injuries, such as:
- Severe lacerations
- Puncture wounds
- Nerve damage
- Facial injuries
- Loss of vision
- Eye injuries
- Disfigurement
- Permanent scarring
- Muscle or tendon damage
- Infection
An experienced lawyer can work with your doctors to fully understand the extent of your injuries. Your medical diagnosis and outlook can be used to help put a more accurate value on your claim.
Can I Still Recover Compensation if I’m Being Blamed for My Dog Bite Accident?
In some cases, the dog’s owner may try to blame you for the bite accident. The good news is that you may still be able to recover compensation even if you are being blamed for the bite. Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule for most personal injury claims.
Under this rule, an injured victim can still recover compensation as long as they are less than 50% responsible for their accident. Their portion of the fault will simply reduce their recovery. For example, if you are found to be 30% at fault for a dog bite, you may still be able to recover 70% of your damages from the dog’s owner or other responsible party.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit for Damages After a Dog Bite in Georgia?
Georgia follows a two-year statute of limitations for most personal injury claims. In most cases, you must file your claim for damages within two years after the accident. If you miss the deadline, you may be forever barred from obtaining any financial recovery.
However, there are a few special situations that can make the deadline vary from the general rule. This is why you should always get help from an experienced lawyer as soon as you can after an accident. Do not automatically assume that you know the rule that applies in your case. Waiting too long can prevent you from recovering any compensation for your injuries.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Columbus Dog Bite Lawyer at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm
If you have suffered a dog bite injury in Columbus, GA, Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm is here to help. We will pursue maximum compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Call our law office today to schedule a free consultation with a Columbus dog bite lawyer. Let us help you get the justice you deserve after your accident.
If you were injured in an accident in Columbus, GA, and need legal help, contact our Columbus personal injury lawyers at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm to schedule a free case review today.
Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm
233 12th St #808
Columbus, GA 31901
(706) 940-4030
