As a dedicated dog bite lawyer serving the Stone Mountain, GA area, we understand the physical and emotional toll a dog bite can take on you and your family. Your well-being is our top priority, and those who act negligently should be held accountable for the damages you’ve suffered. At Kaine Law, we’re committed to focusing on your needs, ensuring that the negligent parties pay for your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and any other damages resulting from the bite.
We operate on a contingency basis, meaning you won’t pay any attorney fees unless we win your case. This approach allows you to seek the compensation you deserve without worrying about upfront costs. Your healing and recovery should be your only concern. If you or a loved one has been the victim of a dog bite in Stone Mountain, GA, don’t hesitate to call us for a free consultation. Let our Stone Mountain personal injury lawyers help you through this challenging time.
You Are Entitled to Compensation for Your Dog Bite Injuries
In dog bite cases, victims may be entitled to various types of compensation to cover the wide range of damages they suffer. These damages are not only meant to cover immediate costs but also to account for the long-term impact of the injury. Here’s a detailed list of the types of damages that you might pursue:
- Medical expenses: Costs for treatment immediately after the bite, including emergency room visits, surgery, medications, and any follow-up care. This also covers future medical expenses related to the injury, such as physical therapy or additional surgeries.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and discomfort endured during and after the attack. This can also include compensation for ongoing discomfort due to scarring or permanent injury.
- Lost wages: Reimbursement for any income lost due to time taken off work for recovery. This can also extend to loss of earning capacity if the victim is unable to return to their previous job or work at the same capacity due to their injuries.
- Emotional distress: Compensation for the psychological impact of the dog bite, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This acknowledges that the effects of a dog bite go beyond physical injuries.
- Disfigurement and disability: In severe cases, dog bites can lead to significant scarring or even permanent disability. Compensation can be sought for the impact of these long-term physical changes, including costs for plastic surgery or rehabilitation for disability.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: Damages awarded for the victim’s inability to enjoy hobbies, activities, or other life pleasures they engaged in before the incident.
- Wrongful death: If a dog bite results in death, the victim’s family may be entitled to compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other damages related to the loss of their loved one.
Each dog bite case is unique, and the types of damages you can claim will depend on the specifics of your situation. Our dog bite attorney can guide you through the process of seeking compensation. We can help evaluate the full extent of your damages and pursue the compensation you deserve and need.
For a free legal consultation with a dog bite lawyer serving Stone Mountain, call 404-214-2001
Negligence Under Georgia’s Dog Bite Laws
Georgia’s approach to dog bite liability is governed by what’s often referred to as a “modified one-bite rule.” Under O.C.G.A. § 4-8-21, a dog owner in Georgia might not be held liable for a bite if they had no prior reason to believe the dog was dangerous. However, this doesn’t mean victims of dog bites are without recourse. Georgia law allows for claims based on negligence.
For instance, if a dog owner fails to properly leash or restrain their dog in accordance with local laws, they could be held liable if the dog bites someone. Negligence can also be demonstrated if the owner violates local leash laws, which are put in place to prevent such incidents.
Exceptions and Contributory Negligence
There are circumstances, however, where a dog owner might not be held liable for a bite. If the victim was teasing or provoking the dog, the law might view their actions as contributing to the incident, potentially reducing or eliminating the owner’s liability. Similarly, if the bite occurred while the victim was trespassing on the owner’s property, the owner might not be held liable, as the dog could be seen as defending its territory.
If it is found that the victim was 50% or more responsible for their own dog bite injuries, they could be barred from collecting compensation, per O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33.
Our dog bite lawyers can review your case and protect you from questionable tactics that would place a greater degree of blame on you than warranted.
Stone Mountain Dog Bite Lawyer Near Me 404-214-2001
We Can Handle Your Stone Mountain Dog Bite Claim While You Heal
Our goal is to help you recover from your dog bite. We want you to rest and heal while we take on the insurance companies and the lawyers for you. Kaine Law will:
Investigate and Gather Evidence
The first step is to thoroughly investigate the incident and gather all relevant evidence. This includes taking photos of the injuries and the location where the bite occurred, obtaining the contact information of the dog owner and any witnesses, and collecting medical records and bills related to the injury. Documentation of the dog’s history of aggression, if available, is also crucial.
Obtain Your Medical Records
It’s essential for victims to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a dog bite. This ensures that your injuries are properly treated and documented by healthcare professionals. Medical records serve as vital evidence in connecting your injuries to your personal injury claim.
Negotiate With the Insurance Companies
Often, a significant part of the dog bite claim process involves negotiating with the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance company. This can be a complex and challenging step, as insurance companies typically aim to minimize the amount they pay out. Knowing the full extent of your damages allows us to effectively negotiate on your behalf.
Represent You in Court, if Necessary
If negotiations with the insurance company do not result in a satisfactory settlement, it may be necessary to file a lawsuit and take the case to court. Representation by a personal injury attorney can be advantageous at this stage. They can advocate on your behalf, arguing the case and presenting evidence to support your claim for compensation.
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Our Stone Mountain Dog Bite Lawyers Are Ready to Get Started
Call or contact us online. Our dog bite lawyers serving the Stone Mountain community want to see you get the recovery you need to get back to your life again. Kaine Law can help you make that happen. Reach out to us today.
Call or text 404-214-2001 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
