Is There Compensation For Dog Bites?

More than 36 percent of American households have a dog. Most of those animals are companions. They live with us and are trusted members of the family. However, some dogs are unpredictable. Any dog can bite.

According to the CDC, about 4.5 million people suffer dog bites annually. Bites could cause pain, injuries, nerve damage or disfigurement. Georgia is a negligence state and it has complex dog bite laws. If you or someone you care about suffered a dog bite, you need a responsive lawyer working with you. The Law Offices of T. Andrew Miller, LLC, has achieved positive results for personal injury clients.

Losses And Expenses From Dog Bites

One out of every five people who are bitten need medical attention. On average, 31,000 people need reconstructive surgery and 16 people die each year after dog attacks. The average hospital cost for people who suffer dog bites is $18,200. Annually, hospital stays for dog attacks cost almost $54 million.

If you have been bitten, Georgia requires you to prove a dog owner’s liability. The injured person must demonstrate the owner knew the animal was vicious or dangerous or acted carelessly, and did not restrain their animal or protect people from the dog. You must also show that you did not provoke the animal.

How To Protect Your Legal Rights After A Dog Bite

A bite might cause severe injuries or the death of someone. You need to prepare for the possible legal action that can help you achieve a fair outcome.

You should:

• See a doctor as soon as possible.
• Take pictures of your injuries before they are treated.
• Get the dog owner or caretaker’s personal information.
• Collect witness information.
• File a report with the local animal control agency.

What Damages Can I Collect?

You could collect compensation for:

• Medical bills
• Pain and suffering
• Lost income
• Property damage related to the dog attack
• Multiple or punitive damages if the owner’s conduct was particularly outrageous.

Contact Us For The Legal Guidance You Need

Our attorney, T. Andrew Miller, spent part of his career defending insurance companies’ interests. He knows their strategies and the tactics they will use to try to deny your claim. Most claims are settled, but we will take your case to trial if necessary. Call our office in Atlanta at 678-605-9109 or email us on our contact page.