A dog bite injury can be a traumatic and unexpected event. Knowing the right steps to take afterward can help protect your health and legal rights. In Athens, Georgia, and throughout the state, victims of dog bites have specific rights and avenues for seeking compensation. Here’s what to do if you’ve been bitten by a dog and how Go Big Injury Lawyers can help.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Dog Bite

  1. Seek Medical Attention Your health and safety are the most important priorities. Even if the bite seems minor, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Dog bites can lead to infections, rabies, and other serious complications. A medical professional can properly clean the wound, provide necessary vaccinations, and document your injuries.
  2. Identify the Dog and Owner Try to identify the dog and its owner. Obtain contact information from the owner, including their name, address, and phone number. This information will be crucial for reporting the incident and filing a claim.
  3. Report the Incident Report the dog bite to local animal control or law enforcement. In Athens, you can contact Athens-Clarke County Animal Services. Reporting the bite helps ensure the dog is properly quarantined and monitored for rabies and other diseases.
  4. Document the Incident Collect as much information as possible about the incident. Take photos of your injuries, the location where the bite occurred, and the dog if possible. Write down the details of the incident, including the time, date, and circumstances leading up to the bite. Gather contact information from any witnesses.
  5. Keep Records Maintain detailed records of your medical treatments, expenses, and any communications with the dog owner or their insurance company. This documentation will be important for your legal case.

Understanding Your Rights as a Dog Bite Victim in Georgia

In Georgia, dog bite victims have specific rights and legal protections. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Georgia’s Dog Bite Law Georgia follows a modified version of the “one bite rule,” which holds dog owners liable if they knew or should have known that their dog was dangerous. This means that if a dog has a history of aggressive behavior or if the owner violated a local leash law, they can be held responsible for the injuries caused.
  2. Strict Liability in Certain Cases If a dog is considered dangerous or vicious, the owner may be held strictly liable for any injuries the dog causes. This applies even if the dog has never bitten anyone before, as long as the owner knew the dog had a propensity for aggression.
  3. Compensation for Injuries Victims of dog bites can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs. An attorney can help you pursue a claim to cover these damages.
  4. Time Limits for Filing a Claim In Georgia, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including dog bites, is generally two years from the date of the incident. It’s important to act quickly to ensure your rights are protected.

Why Contact Go Big Injury Lawyers?

Navigating the legal process after a dog bite injury can be challenging. At Go Big Injury Lawyers, we are committed to helping dog bite victims in Athens and across Georgia. Our team is available 24 hours a day to provide the support you need, and all consultations are free. With offices throughout the state, we offer accessible legal assistance no matter where you are. Call us anytime at 800-777-7777.

Conclusion

Dog bite injuries can have serious physical and emotional consequences. By taking the right steps after an incident and understanding your legal rights, you can protect yourself and seek the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, contact Go Big Injury Lawyers for a free consultation and the dedicated support you need to navigate this difficult time.