- Dog Bite
Dog bites can lead to serious injuries and emotional trauma. In the state of Georgia, the laws surrounding dog bites are quite specific and can be complex to navigate without legal assistance. This is where a Douglasville dog bite lawyer can be of immense help.
Contact our team at Hartley, Rowe & Fowler today to schedule a free case evaluation.
Deciphering Georgia’s Dog Bite Laws
In Georgia, owners are held accountable for any harm caused by a dog that is considered dangerous. According to Georgia’s dog bite law, a dog owner can be held responsible if:
- The dog is deemed a “vicious or dangerous animal.”
- The incident happened due to “careless management or by allowing the animal to go at liberty.”
- The injured person did not “provoke the injury by his own act.”
The law further elaborates that a dog can be classified as “vicious or dangerous” if it was required to be leashed (or otherwise restrained) under local law at the time of the incident.
How a Douglasville Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help
A Douglasville dog bite lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in several ways.
Filing a Legal Claim and Establishing Liability
A lawyer can assist you in filing a lawsuit demanding compensation for a dog bite case. They can guide you in demonstrating that the dog owner was aware of the dog’s dangerous tendencies or that the owner neglected to properly confine their dog.
Gathering Evidence
A lawyer can help gather crucial evidence to support your case. This may include medical records, witness statements, and any past reports of aggression by the dog. This might involve hiring a private investigator to gather more information about the dog and its owner.
A lawyer will reach out to eyewitnesses for testimony. They can also help document the impact your injuries have had on your life. Being attacked or bitten by a dog can lead to anxiety and post-traumatic stress. If you need counseling or therapy, a mental health professional can provide testimony about your emotional suffering.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Often, a dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance policy will cover damages resulting from dog bites. However, dealing with insurance companies can be complex and challenging. A lawyer can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation. They will know how to counter low-ball offers and can use their knowledge of the law to argue for a higher settlement.
Representing You in Court
If your case goes to court, having a lawyer by your side can be invaluable. They can present your case in the best light, cross-examine witnesses, and argue for your rights. They will prepare you for what to expect, guide you through the process, and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome.
Calculating Damages
Dog bites can result in significant medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A lawyer can help calculate these damages to ensure you seek an appropriate amount of compensation. They will consider current and future medical costs, any income you have lost due to the injury, and the emotional distress you have suffered.
Contact Us for a Free Case Review
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Georgia, it’s important to seek legal assistance. A Douglasville dog bite lawyer can help you navigate the legal landscape, deal with insurance companies, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Remember, it’s not just about the physical injuries; emotional trauma from a dog bite can also have lasting effects. With the right legal assistance from Hartley, Rowe & Fowler you can focus on your recovery while your lawyer handles the legal aspects of your case.
Contact us today at 678-825-6004 for a free case review. We are available 24/7.
