Experienced Dog Bite Lawyer In Atlanta
Have you or someone you love been attacked and injured by a dog? These are complex personal injury claims, and the burden of proof will lie on your shoulders to prove the dog owner’s liability.
Georgia has some of the most complex dog bite laws in the country, making it important to work with an attorney who has experience with these matters. Law Office of Brandon Dixon, P.C., represents dog bite victims across the state. The firm can offer guidance and support during this difficult time, helping you understand who may be legally responsible and how to pursue a financial recovery that can cover your medical bills and possibly more.
For a free 30-minute consultation with Atlanta dog bite attorney Brandon Dixon, call 404-585-3721 or use the firm’s online contact form.
Dog Bite Liability: Property Owner Negligence And The One Bite Rule
There are specific situations where the owner of a dog may be held liable for injuries the animal inflicts upon another person. Even though Georgia is considered a “one bite free” state, there are ways that a victim can hold a dog owner accountable.
If the attack was unprovoked and the victim suffered quantifiable harm, a successful dog bite claim may be based on proof that:
- The owner knew or should have reasonably known of the dog’s vicious tendencies.
- The owner negligently or carelessly failed to properly manage/contain a vicious or dangerous animal.
- The owner failed to adhere to leash laws in the area where the attack occurred.
- The owner was negligent in preventing the victim’s injuries.
What Is The One Bite Rule?
Under Georgia’s “one bite rule,” dog owners are not strictly liable for injuries their animals inflict unless the dog is considered vicious. In these cases, vicious generally refers to whether the dog has previously injured another person. However, the owner could still be held liable if they were recklessly keeping the dog.
Can Your Dog Be Put Down For Biting Someone?
Your dog might be put down for biting someone but it is unlikely. Your dog will only be put down for having a history of aggression, including biting.
Circumstances around the dog bite are also taken into account. Factors such as whether or not the dog was provoked or acting in self-defense. Animal control or the victim of the bite can also have your dog be petitioned as a dangerous animal, and if your dog is declared “dangerous,” your dog will now have to walk around with a muzzle in public.
You may also have to place a sign in front of your yard warning others of your dangerous animal. After a bite, your dog might be seized by animal control and held until a determination is made about what will happen to the dog.
Can Animal Control Take Your Dog For Biting Someone?
If your dog bites someone but it doesn’t cause severe injury or death, your dog can’t be detained or killed. Animal control may investigate your dog to determine if it is a dangerous dog.
Contact Law Office of Brandon Dixon, P.C., For A Free Consultation
If you want to find out more about who is responsible and how to recover fair compensation after a dog attack, Atlanta dog bite lawyer Brandon Dixon may be able to help. He and his legal team are committed to the successful resolution of your claim and will fight in or out of the courtroom to pursue the maximum compensation on your behalf. Contact the firm online or call 404-585-3721 today for a free 30-minute consultation.