If you are here reading this, it may be because you or someone you care about has been bitten by a dog in Georgia. You might be hurt, worried, or unsure about what to do next. That’s okay. Many people feel that way after something so scary happens. At our law firm, we understand how upsetting it can be. You may have doctor bills to pay or feel unsure about how to get help. You are not alone, and we are here to guide you step by step.
Understanding Why Dog Bites Happen
Dog bites can happen anywhere, whether you are walking in your neighborhood, visiting a friend, or even at a public park. Dogs can bite when they feel scared, angry, or think they need to protect their home. Sometimes, even friendly dogs can bite if they are not being watched closely. Sadly, many people who get bitten are children, but adults can get hurt too. A dog bite can lead to cuts, bruises, infections, and even long-term problems that need serious medical care. These injuries can be painful and may take a long time to heal.
What Georgia Law Says About Dog Bites
In Georgia, the law says that dog owners must keep their pets under control. If a dog is known to be dangerous or has acted badly before, the owner must be extra careful. If the owner fails to do that, they may be responsible for the harm the dog causes. This means if you were bitten and the owner didn’t do enough to prevent it, you may be able to ask for money to help pay for your injuries. That includes your medical expenses, your lost work time, and even pain and stress from what happened.
Leland Malchow
Attorney - Partner
Chris Johnson
Attorney - Partner
Dane Anderson
Associate Attorney
Bailey Marshall
Associate Attorney
Why Medical Costs Are a Big Deal
Getting hurt by a dog isn’t just scary, it can also be expensive. Right after a bite, you may need to go to the emergency room. You might need stitches, medicine to stop infection, or even surgery. Later, you could need follow-up doctor visits or therapy if the injury affects how you move or feel. All of this can cost a lot, especially if you don’t have insurance or if your insurance doesn’t cover everything. That’s why it’s important to find out if you can get help paying for those bills through a legal claim.
How a Dog Bite Can Affect Your Life
A dog bite doesn’t only hurt your body. It can also change how you live your life. You might be scared to go outside or feel nervous around animals. You may not be able to work for a while, which can lead to even more stress if bills start to pile up. If a child is bitten, they may feel scared or confused about what happened. These feelings are very real, and they matter. When you ask for compensation, it’s not just about the money. It’s about finding a way to get support so you or your loved one can start to feel better again.
What You Can Do After a Dog Bite
Right after a dog bite, the first step is always to get medical help. Make sure the wound is treated and that you have all the care you need. You should also try to report the bite to animal control or the police. They can help create a record of what happened. If you can, try to get the name of the dog’s owner and any people who saw what happened. Take pictures of your injury if you can. All of this helps when it’s time to talk about your case.
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Proving the Owner Was Responsible
To ask for help with medical costs and other problems caused by a dog bite, you need to show that the dog’s owner did something wrong. Maybe they didn’t keep their dog on a leash. Maybe the dog had bitten someone before and the owner didn’t warn anyone. Georgia law says that if the owner knew the dog could be dangerous and didn’t stop it from hurting you, they can be held responsible. This can be shown by reports, witness stories, or proof that the dog had caused trouble before.
The Role of Insurance in Dog Bite Claims
Many dog bite claims are handled through the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance. This insurance can help pay for doctor bills, missed work, and even emotional stress. But insurance companies don’t always make it easy. Sometimes they try to pay less than what your injuries are really worth. That’s why it helps to have someone on your side who understands how to deal with them. It can make a big difference in how much support you receive.
Why Time Matters
In Georgia, you only have a certain amount of time to take legal action after a dog bite. This is called the statute of limitations. If you wait too long, you may not be able to get help at all. That’s why it’s important to act as soon as you can. Talking to someone early can help you understand your rights and what to expect. It also gives your case the best chance at success because the details will still be fresh and easier to prove.
How Legal Help Can Make a Difference
Trying to handle a dog bite case on your own can feel like too much, especially when you’re trying to heal. You may not know what papers you need or how much money you can ask for. That’s where legal help can make things easier. A lawyer can take care of the hard parts, like talking to the insurance company, collecting proof, and building a strong case. You don’t have to do this alone, and having help can make things move more smoothly.
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What You Can Ask For in a Claim
When you ask for help after a dog bite, it’s not just about covering your doctor bills. You can also ask for money to make up for the work you missed, the pain you’ve been through, and any changes in how you live your life. If your injury has left scars or you need therapy to feel safe again, that matters too. The goal is to help you get back to the way life was before the bite, or as close to it as possible.
What Happens in a Case Like This
After you meet with a lawyer, they will learn about what happened to you. They may collect your medical records, talk to witnesses, and study the dog’s history. They’ll talk to the dog owner’s insurance company and try to reach an agreement. If that doesn’t work, they may take the case to court. Most cases settle before a trial, but either way, your lawyer will be with you every step of the way, working to get the help you need.
Support When You Need It Most
We know that a dog bite can turn your world upside down. You may feel scared, confused, and unsure of what to do. But you don’t have to figure it out alone. Getting legal help means having someone to fight for you and guide you through this hard time. You deserve support and care, and it’s okay to ask for help. Whether it’s medical bills, lost wages, or just feeling safe again, your needs are real and they matter.
If you or someone you love has been hurt by a dog in Georgia and you’re facing high medical costs, we’re ready to stand by your side. You can count on Malchow Johnson Injury Lawyers to listen to your story, answer your questions, and fight for the support you deserve. Reach out today so we can help you take the next step toward healing and justice.