Dog Bite Claims in Atlanta and Sandy Springs, Georgia
Dog bites have become somewhat of an epidemic in the United States. There are almost 5 million victims each year, which is about 2% of the entire population. Of those dog bites, approximately 800,000 require medical attention, many in hospital emergency rooms. According to the Centers for Disease Control dog bites send nearly 368,000 victims to hospital emergency rooms each year. Most of the victims of dog bites who receive medical attention are children, half of whom are bitten in the face. It is estimated that 26 people die from dog bites each year.
In addition to the potential for infection and damage to the limbs and face, being bitten by a dog can cause emotional trauma, especially in young children. Although we often hear about certain breeds of dogs being prone to vicious attacks, be aware that nearly every breed of dog can bite under certain circumstances.
Dog attack victims in the United States suffer over $1 billion in monetary losses every year. According to the Insurance Information Institute, in 2005, dog bites cost insurers over three hundred million dollars, and dog bite claims accounted for about 15% of liability claims dollars paid under homeowners insurance policies.
Determing Dog Bite Liability in Georgia
Georgia law states that a person who owns or keeps a vicious or dangerous animal that causes injury to another person may be liable for damages. You, as the dog bite victim, must show that the owner acted negligently by allowing the dog to run free or not having it properly under control on a leash or through verbal command.
In the state of Georgia, laws regarding dog bites tend to the favor of the dog’s owner, regardless of how much damage an uncontrolled animal may have caused. In our state, a dog’s owner must have known the animal was dangerous or posed a bite risk to be held liable. While you may assume this means generally aggressive or menacing behavior on the part of the dog, Georgia law does not consider behavior alone to be a clear indicator of bite risk.
Georgia law may not on your side when you are the victim of a dog attack, but the experienced Atlanta and Sandy Springs dob bite attorneys at Robbins & Associates are. We are experienced in determining dog bite liability in Georgia. We have the resources and tenacity to investigate your claim. Most importantly, we will fight to get you every penny you deserve.
Dog Owner Responsibilities in Georgia
Under Georgia law, a dog owner must keep a “dangerous dog” or “potentially dangerous dog” securely confined and away from others. In addition, a sign indicating a dangerous dog is on the premises is required, as is liability insurance of at least $15,000.
Attacks from a dangerous or potentially dangerous dog are subject strict liability, meaning the owner will have to pay for damages regardless of circumstances. Owners of dangerous dogs may also face criminal penalties such as fines and jail time, but these punishments will do nothing to cover your damages. To ensure your damages are covered you will need an aggressive Atlanta dog bite lawyer on your side as soon as possible.
At Robbins Law, PC, our Atlanta, Georgia attorney is experienced in helping people who have suffered dog bites receive the compensation to which they are entitled.
If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite due to the owner’s or keeper’s negligence, please contact our experienced Sandy Springs dog bite attorney today to schedule your free initial consultation. We will get the facts and begin determining dog bite liability in your case.