Have you been bitten by a dog in Columbus, GA? You may be entitled to significant compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. However, holding the dog’s owner liable and getting the compensation you are owed without the help of a dog bite lawyer can be challenging.
Keep reading below to learn everything you need to know about dog bite cases in Georgia.
Overview of Georgia Dog Bite Laws
Some states follow the “one-bite rule” for dog bite cases, while others impose strict liability on dog owners for any injuries caused by their dog biting another person. Georgia follows a modified one-bite rule. Under Georgia law, an owner can be held liable for the damages resulting from a bite if they knew the dog was vicious.
A few things may be used to deem a dog “vicious.” First, a history of biting or aggression can cause a dog to be classified as vicious. Other things may cause a dog to be considered vicious, and these additional items give victims the flexibility to get compensation for their injuries in multiple scenarios.
Dog owners may also be held responsible if they were careless in controlling the animal. For instance, if the dog is not on a leash and it bites someone, the owner can be held responsible. Remember that this state law also allows local municipalities to enact even more strict legislation regarding dog bites and ownership.
What Types of Damages Are Available to Dog Bite Victims?
Victims who suffer injuries from dog bites may be entitled to recover both economic and non-economic damages from the dog’s owner.
Economic Damages
Economic damages compensate victims for their financial losses resulting from a dog bite.
Some common examples of these damages include:
- Emergency treatment
- Diagnostic tests
- Doctor visits
- Lost wages
- Lost benefits
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Cost of medications
Putting a specific dollar figure on these damages is usually quite easy. Victims usually have bills, receipts, and other documentation that can be used to show the value of these losses.
Non-Economic Damages
Additionally, victims may be able to recover compensation for their physical and emotional pain and trauma.
Some common examples of these non-economic damages include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- PTSD
- Permanent scarring
- Disfigurement
- Permanent fear of dogs
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Loss of quality of life
These damages are quite subjective, and you may need the help of an experienced lawyer and experts who can help put an accurate value on these losses.
Proving a Dog Bite Claim in Georgia
In Georgia dog bite cases, the plaintiff (the victim bringing the lawsuit) has the burden of proof. The victim must prove their case by a preponderance of the evidence. This means that your version of the facts is more likely true than not.
Many types of evidence may be used to prove your case, such as:
- Your own testimony
- Witness testimony
- Testimony from the dog’s owner
- Photos
- Video surveillance
- Evidence of the dog’s history or tendencies
An experienced lawyer can help gather and present evidence to prove your case.
How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Lawsuit in Georgia?
Dog bite victims in Georgia generally have two years from the date of their accident to file a lawsuit for damages. Failure to file your lawsuit before the deadline expires may cause you to lose all your right to recover any compensation for your injuries. However, some special circumstances can make the deadline for your claim different from the general rule.
For example, if the victim is a minor, the clock may pause until their 18th birthday. An experienced lawyer can help you determine the specific filing deadline for your lawsuit so that you do not miss your chance to recover compensation for your injuries.
Contact Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm for a Free Consultation With a Columbus Dog Bite Lawyer
If you have suffered injuries from a dog bite in Columbus, GA, the experienced team at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm is here to support you. We have recovered tens of millions of dollars in compensation for injury victims after all types of serious accidents. Our legal team has the knowledge and experience you need on your side after a dog bite accident.
Call us now at 706-940-4030 to schedule a free consultation with a Columbus dog bite lawyer.
