If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Georgia, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. However, navigating a dog bite lawsuit can be a complex and overwhelming process. In this blog post, we’ll go over what you can expect during a Georgia dog bite lawsuit
Georgia’s Dog Bite Law
Georgia follows a “strict liability” rule when it comes to dog bite cases. This means that the owner of a dog is responsible for any injuries the dog causes, regardless of whether the owner was negligent or knew that the dog had a history of aggressive behavior.
To win a dog bite lawsuit in Georgia, the plaintiff must prove that:
- The defendant was the owner of the dog that bit them
- The plaintiff did not provoke the dog
- The plaintiff was not trespassing at the time of the attack
- The plaintiff suffered injuries as a result of the attack
Filing a Lawsuit
The first step in a dog bite lawsuit is to file a complaint in the appropriate court. The complaint should include a detailed account of the attack, the injuries suffered by the plaintiff, and any medical expenses or lost wages incurred as a result of the attack.
Once the complaint is filed, the defendant will be served with a copy and given an opportunity to respond. The defendant may admit fault or deny liability and file a counterclaim.
Discovery
During the discovery phase, both parties will exchange evidence and information relevant to the case. This may include medical records, witness statements, and expert testimony. The parties may also depose witnesses, including the plaintiff, the defendant, and any eyewitnesses.
Settlement Negotiations
In many cases, dog bite lawsuits are settled out of court through negotiations between the parties’ attorneys. The defendant’s insurance company may offer a settlement to compensate the plaintiff for their injuries and other damages.
Trial
If a settlement cannot be reached, the case will go to trial. A judge or jury will hear both sides of the case and make a decision based on the evidence presented.
Damages
If the plaintiff is successful in their dog bite lawsuit, they may be entitled to a variety of damages, including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Disfigurement or scarring
It is important to note that Georgia has a two-year statute of limitations for dog bite lawsuits. This means that the plaintiff must file their lawsuit within two years of the date of the attack or they may lose their right to compensation
It’s important to document the incident as thoroughly as possible. This can include taking photographs of the injuries, getting contact information from any witnesses, and keeping records of any medical treatment or expenses incurred as a result of the attack.
It’s also important to avoid speaking with the dog owner’s insurance company or making any statements that could be used against you in court. Let your attorney handle all communication and negotiations on your behalf.
If you are the owner of a dog in Georgia, it’s important to take steps to prevent your dog from biting others. This can include keeping your dog on a leash or within a fenced area, training your dog to be well-behaved around people and other animals, and being Georgia dog bite lawsuit can be a complex and challenging process, but with the right legal representation and preparation, you can seek justice and compensation for your injuries. Remember to document the incident thoroughly, avoid speaking with the defendant’s insurance company, and take steps to prevent dog bites in the future.
Princenthal, May & Wilson, LLC is a law firm that specializes in personal injury cases, including dog bite lawsuits. We have extensive experience representing clients in Georgia dog bite cases and can help you navigate the legal process with confidence.
Our team of attorneys will work closely with you to understand the details of your case and develop a strategy to maximize your compensation. We will handle all communication with the defendant’s insurance company and any other parties involved in the case.
We understand that dog bite injuries can be traumatic and life-changing, which is why we will fight tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. We will work to secure damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other damages incurred as a result of the attack.
At Princenthal, May & Wilson, LLC, we believe in treating our clients with compassion, respect, and understanding. We will always keep you informed and involved throughout the legal process and answer any questions you may have along the way.
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Georgia, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. We will review your case and provide you with the guidance and support you need to seek justice and compensation for your injuries.