A dog attack can leave victims facing painful injuries, costly medical treatment, and uncertainty about missed time from work. Plus, the aftermath of a dog bite extends far beyond the initial incident, with the challenges of dealing with uncooperative insurers and long-term challenges. However, the dog bite attorneys in Smyrna, Georgia, at Kaine Law, help victims and their families navigate these difficult situations.
Our legal team understands the laws surrounding dog bite claims in Georgia, and we are ready to guide you through the legal process. If you or a loved one has suffered from a dog attack, you do not have to face insurance companies or negligent pet owners on your own. Call us today for a free consultation to learn how a Smyrna personal injury lawyer can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Why Choose a Dog Bite Attorney in Smyrna With Kaine Law
Pursuing a dog bite claim without legal guidance can feel overwhelming. Here’s how Kaine Law can help:
Dog Bite Laws in Georgia
Georgia dog bite laws hold dog owners responsible when they fail to properly control or restrain their pets. This responsibility applies whether the incident occurs in a public place, such as Tolleson Park or a sidewalk, or on private property where the victim was legally present.
State law also includes requirements for identifying aggressive or dangerous dogs and enforcing leash laws. If an owner allows a dog to roam free, and that dog bites someone, the owner can be held liable for the resulting injuries.
How Liability Works in Georgia Dog Bite Cases
To hold a dog owner accountable, Georgia law requires proof of negligence. This legal framework follows four elements:
- Duty of Care: Dog owners must control their pets and prevent them from causing harm.
- Breach of Duty: The owner failed to take reasonable steps, such as keeping the dog leashed or properly secured.
- Causation: The dog’s actions caused the victim’s injuries.
- Damages: The victim suffered measurable losses, such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain.
How Our Dog Bite Attorneys in Smyrna Handle Claims
Insurance adjusters often minimize the extent of injuries or pressure victims to settle quickly for less than they deserve. In some cases, dog owners may even deny responsibility. An attorney helps level the playing field. At Kaine Law, we:
- Investigate the circumstances of the attack.
- Gather medical records, witness testimony, and animal control reports.
- Handle communications with insurance companies.
- Pursue negotiations or litigation if necessary.
We know every case is unique, which is why we give personalized attention to all our clients. We will be there to provide you and your family with legal guidance throughout the claims process. With our no-fee guarantee, you pay nothing unless we recover compensation on your behalf.
For a free legal consultation with a lawyer serving Smyrna, call 404-214-2001
Damages You May Recover in a Dog Bite Claim
The aftermath of a dog attack can result in both financial and personal losses:
Significant Injuries That Lead to Damages
Dog bites can cause lasting harm that requires ongoing care and support. Common injuries include:
- Puncture wounds and infections
- Nerve damage, disfigurement, and scarring
- Broken bones or crush injuries
- Psychological trauma, particularly among children
The severity of these injuries often determines the scope of damages in a claim. By documenting both medical treatment and long-term effects, victims strengthen their case for maximum compensation.
Economic Damages You May Seek
Georgia law allows victims to pursue compensation for their injuries and losses, which often extend far beyond the initial hospital visit.
Economic damages cover the financial costs of the injury, such as:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation and therapy
- Lost wages during recovery
- Reduced earning capacity if the injuries limit your ability to work
- Future healthcare needs
Non-Economic Damages Can Be Included
These damages address the personal and emotional impact of a dog attack, such as:
- Pain and suffering due to the discomfort from wounds, surgeries, and treatment
- Emotional trauma, including anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Loss of enjoyment of life if you are unable to participate in activities you once enjoyed
We will determine the full range of your losses and seek a negotiated settlement or court award. Our founder, Attorney Evan Kaine, has been recognized for his case results, including membership in the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum and recognition by Super Lawyers.
Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Claims in Georgia
Dog bite victims in Georgia generally have two years from the date of the attack to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline, called the statute of limitations, is strict. If you miss it, the courts will bar your case, and you could lose your ability to seek damages altogether.
Certain exceptions apply, especially when the victim is a minor. In those cases, the time limit may be paused until the child reaches adulthood. However, evidence such as medical records and witness testimony is strongest when gathered soon after the incident, so it is best to take action quickly.
By contacting Kaine Law soon after a dog bite, you protect your right to compensation and give our team the time needed to build the strongest possible case.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Smyrna
The moments after a dog attack can feel chaotic, but taking the right steps can protect your health and your legal claim:
- Seek immediate medical care to prevent infection and document injuries.
- Report the attack to the Smyrna Police Department or Cobb County Animal Services.
- Collect evidence, such as photos of injuries, details of the dog, and contact information for witnesses.
- Keep records of all medical bills, lost wages, and out-of-pocket expenses.
- Call Kaine Law to discuss your legal options and next steps.
Taking these actions helps ensure your claim is supported by the evidence needed to pursue fair compensation.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Call Kaine Law for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one suffered a dog bite in Smyrna, you deserve to focus on recovery while we handle the legal process. Our team has multiple decades of experience representing injury victims across Georgia, and we know how to navigate the challenges of dog bite claims.
Call Kaine Law today for a free consultation. With our no-fee guarantee, you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Smyrna, GA, Dog Bite FAQ
What if the dog owner is a neighbor or friend?
Claims are typically handled through homeowners’ insurance policies, not the dog owner’s personal finances.
Can children recover damages for dog bites?
Yes. Children can receive compensation for medical treatment and emotional harm, with claims filed on their behalf by a parent or guardian.
Do I need to prove the dog was dangerous before?
Not necessarily. Georgia law holds owners responsible if they fail to control their pets, even if the dog had not bitten anyone before.
Call or text 404-214-2001 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
