If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Georgia, it can be a frightening and painful experience. Not only do you have to worry about medical treatment, but you may also be wondering what the next steps are to protect your rights. When you are injured by a dog bite, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries, and this often involves filing a dog bite claim. Understanding the legal process in Georgia for these types of claims can help you feel more prepared and confident as you navigate your way through recovery and potential legal action. At, Princenthal, May & Wilson, LLC, we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.
Dog bites can cause serious injuries, and knowing what to expect during the legal process of a Georgia dog bite claim can make things a bit easier. In Georgia, dog owners are responsible for controlling their pets and keeping people safe from attacks. When they fail to do this, and someone is injured as a result, the law allows for the injured person to seek compensation. To get started on your claim, you need to understand the steps involved in filing a dog bite claim in Georgia.
Reporting the Dog Bite Incident
The first step in the process is reporting the dog bite. After being attacked by a dog, it is important to make sure the authorities are notified. This helps create a record of the incident and ensures that public safety measures are taken. In Georgia, many counties and cities require dog bites to be reported to animal control or local law enforcement. This report will include details of the attack, the dog involved, and any witnesses who saw the event happen. Reporting the dog bite is not only important for your claim but also for preventing future attacks on others. Once the report is filed, animal control may investigate the situation to determine if the dog poses a danger to the community.
At this point, you should also seek medical attention immediately, even if the injuries seem minor. Dog bites can lead to infections and other health problems, so it is crucial to have a medical professional assess the injury. Your medical records from this visit will be key evidence in your claim and will help show the extent of your injuries.
Attorney At Law Attorney At Law Attorney At Law
Adam Princenthal
David May
Matthew Wilson
Gathering Evidence and Building Your Claim
Once the dog bite has been reported and you have received medical care, the next step is gathering evidence to support your claim. This evidence is necessary to prove that the dog owner was negligent and that their negligence caused your injury. Evidence can include photos of your injuries, medical records, witness statements, and any details about the dog’s behavior leading up to the attack.
In Georgia, dog bite claims typically rely on proving that the dog had a history of aggression or that the owner was careless in controlling their pet. For example, if the dog had attacked someone in the past or the owner allowed the dog to roam freely without a leash, this can be used to demonstrate negligence. You and your attorney will work together to collect this evidence and build a strong case that shows the dog owner was responsible for the attack.
This process can take time, especially if more information is needed to fully understand the circumstances of the bite. It’s important to remain patient and stay in close contact with your legal team as they gather the necessary information for your case.
Filing a Claim for Compensation
After gathering evidence, your attorney will file a claim on your behalf. This claim is submitted to the dog owner’s insurance company, and it outlines the injuries you suffered as well as the compensation you are seeking. Compensation in a dog bite claim can cover things like medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any future medical treatment you may need. Your attorney will help calculate the total amount of damages you are entitled to based on the severity of your injuries and the impact they have had on your life.
The insurance company will then review the claim and either offer a settlement or deny the claim. In many cases, the insurance company may try to offer a low settlement to avoid paying out the full amount of damages. This is where having a skilled attorney can make a big difference. Your attorney will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, working to get you the fair compensation you deserve.
After a car accident, I contacted David May at the Lagrange office. He, and his staff, helped me with medical advice and follow up doctors visits, along with dealing with my insurance and the insurance of the woman that hit me. I have been very pleased with the service I received from David May and the Lagrange staff. They are warm and open, always there to help with advice and answer questions.” - Debau I highly recommend Adam Princenthal .I was looking for someone with years of experience in personal injury.They needed to be knowledgeable, transparent and honest.I wanted to know I was dealing directly with the lawyer I hired.Adam Princenthal could answer all the difficult questions and phone calls were returned.Adam got the settlement I was looking for in a timely manner." - Nancy K. I am glad that I was referred to Princenthal & May. Matthew met with me and gained my trust with the case. I was never left in the dark on any matters, My phone calls were either answered or returned quickly. The office staff are very friendly as well. My case was settled, with both Matthew and Adam present. Both are very professional in their work.. They work for you !!!" - Jacque Minor
Negotiating a Settlement
Once the claim is filed, negotiations between your attorney and the insurance company will begin. This is a critical part of the process, as it often determines whether your case will settle or go to court. Most dog bite claims are resolved through a settlement, meaning the dog owner’s insurance company agrees to pay a certain amount of compensation to avoid going to trial. Your attorney will handle these negotiations, presenting the evidence and arguing for a fair settlement based on the severity of your injuries and other losses.
During this phase, it is important to listen to your attorney’s advice. They will explain the terms of any settlement offers and help you decide whether accepting the offer is in your best interest. Sometimes, insurance companies may try to offer less than what your claim is worth, but your attorney will work to ensure you receive fair compensation. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, the next step may be filing a lawsuit and preparing for trial.
Filing a Lawsuit and Going to Trial
If settlement negotiations are unsuccessful, your attorney may recommend taking the case to court. This means filing a lawsuit against the dog owner. In a lawsuit, your attorney will present your case in front of a judge and possibly a jury. They will use the evidence gathered during the investigation phase to prove that the dog owner was negligent and should be held responsible for your injuries.
While many people worry about going to court, it is important to remember that not all cases end up in a trial. Even after a lawsuit is filed, negotiations for a settlement may continue. However, if the case does go to trial, your attorney will be there to guide you through the process and fight for your rights. A trial can be time-consuming and stressful, but it may be the best option if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement.
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Receiving Your Compensation
If your case is successful, whether through a settlement or a trial verdict, you will receive compensation for your injuries. The amount of compensation will depend on the specifics of your case, including the severity of your injuries and the impact they have had on your life. This compensation is meant to cover your medical expenses, any lost income from missing work, and the physical and emotional pain you have endured.
It is important to understand that receiving compensation can take time. In a settlement, the insurance company may pay out the agreed amount relatively quickly. However, if your case goes to trial, it could take longer to receive payment, especially if there are any appeals. Your attorney will help you understand the timeline and keep you updated on when you can expect to receive your compensation.
Why Legal Help is Crucial
The legal process of a Georgia dog bite claim can be overwhelming, especially when you are recovering from an injury. Having a knowledgeable attorney by your side can make all the difference. They will guide you through each step of the process, from filing the claim to negotiating with the insurance company or even representing you in court. Without legal assistance, it can be difficult to navigate the complexities of a dog bite case and ensure you are fairly compensated for your injuries.
Representative Cases
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite incident, it is important to take action as soon as possible. The sooner you contact an attorney, the better your chances of building a strong case and securing the compensation you deserve.
When you are facing the legal process after a dog bite, having the right legal representation is essential. Princenthal, May & Wilson, LLC is here to help you through every step of your Georgia dog bite claim. Our experienced attorneys understand the challenges you are facing, and we are committed to fighting for your rights. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can assist you in pursuing the compensation you deserve.