Can I Sue for a Dog Attack in Georgia?

A dog attack can be a frightening experience. Most likely, you will be left not only dealing with the physical effects of your attack, but also the emotional losses. 

Fortunately, a Savannah personal injury lawsuit can allow you to recuperate damages. Read on to find out how to sue for a dog attack in Georgia. 

Considerations for Dog Attack Claims in Georgia 

In the blink of an eye, a provoked or aggressive dog can turn violent and do what it was bred to do by evolution: attack or defend itself from a perceived threat. Sometimes, even when we least expect it, a dog can turn on us and cause significant injury. 

Dog attacks can take on many different forms, and can include bites, scratches, charges, and knockdowns. Some injuries that can result from a dog attack might include: 

• Punctured skin
• Broken or fractured bones
• Eye injuries
• Disfigurement and scarring

Regardless of the nature of your injuries, when someone else’s dog is the culprit, its owner may be financially responsible for your damages. 

Owners owe a duty of care to protect people from their pets in Georgia, with the exception that owners must be aware of previous violent behavior from their dogs in order to be held liable. 

Georgia’s negligence rule gives dog attack defendants the upper hand in Georgia, which is why most victims serious about proving negligence and recovering damages retain the services of a dog attack lawyer. 

Statute of Limitations for Dog Attack Lawsuits in Georgia 

A state’s statute of limitations places a deadline on the amount of time that may pass following an accident for the victim to file a personal injury claim. In Georgia, for example, the statute of limitations for a dog attack is two years from the date of the incident. 

Claims submitted after the statute of limitations has passed will likely be thrown out, so it’s important to understand what the law says about the deadline for a lawsuit in your state. 

Who Pays Damages for My Dog Attack?

Often, dog attack victims are worried about filing a lawsuit against someone they know for fear of straining that relationship. After all, most of the dogs we meet (besides our own) will belong to some we know, whether that be a neighbor, a friend, or a family member. 

When considering who will pay for your damages, it’s important to know that homeowner’s and renter’s insurance usually covers things like dog attacks. So although you may be suing your acquaintance or family member, it is usually their insurance company who will foot the bill if you are awarded damages. 

Contact a Savannah Dog Attack Lawyer Today 

Georgia’s laws on liability on dog attacks give the defendant the upperhand, which is why most litigants elect to partner with an experienced dog-attack attorney for their case. The legal team at The Nye Law Group are passionate about protecting the rights of Georgians and will fight to win you the settlement you deserve. 

Why not get in touch with an experienced attorney from our firm? Call 912-200-5230 or fill out the form below to access your free, no-hassle consultation.