Millions of Americans love their pets, and that includes citizens of Sugar Hill. Although many of us see our dogs as an extension of the family, it doesn’t mean bites and attacks can’t happen. If you or someone you love was injured from a dog bite or attack, you can benefit from the services of a dog bite and animal attack lawyer in Sugar Hill.
You should not have to carry the financial burden of a dog bite or animal attack you didn’t cause. Our dog bite lawyers at John Foy & Associates have been helping victims all throughout Georgia win the compensation they deserve for more than 20 years. It’s risk-free to work with us because we don’t charge a fee unless we win your case—and the consultation is always FREE.
Contact us today and we’ll discuss the details of your injuries and how we can help you file an injury claim for your damages. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online to get started for FREE today.
How to Respond After a Dog Bite or Animal Attack in Sugar Hill, GA
It can be hard to remain calm after a dog attacks you. Panic is completely understandable—but it’s important to focus on getting help and, if you’re well enough to do so, gathering information at the scene. Here are some things you can do to help yourself after a bite or attack in Sugar Hill.
Get Medical Treatment
Dog bites can be very serious, even deadly. Dogs are strong animals that can latch on and cause a lot of damage and blood loss. You’re also at a higher risk of infection, so it’s important to get prompt medical treatment.
If your injuries are very serious, all 911 to get emergency medical attention. Otherwise, go to your doctor as soon as possible that day to get your injuries checked out and cleaned.
Gather Information at the Scene
If the dog’s owner is at fault for the bite (which is highly likely), you’ll need to file a claim with their insurance company for compensation. To do this, you’ll need to provide evidence of the bite. If you’re able to stay at the scene, try to get:
- The full name and contact information of the dog’s owner
- Pictures and a description of the dog and its vet records, especially the date of its last rabies shot
- Information on whether or not the dog has bitten anyone in the past
- The names and contact information for any witnesses
- Pictures of your injuries and the scene of the bite
Unfortunately, it’s common for the dog’s owner to either not be around when the dog bites or to flee the scene after the bite occurs. Some dogs bite after they have been allowed to roam freely in their neighborhood, which is very negligent on the owner’s part. If you are having trouble getting information on the dog’s owner or the dog, contact a dog bite and animal attack lawyer in Sugar Hill.
Get Advice from an Experienced Lawyer
Your lawyer can investigate the scene and compile information on the bite or attack. They can also help you keep track of your damages and figure out the full value of your claim before filing it. If the insurance company tries to offer you less than you deserve (which is very common), they will work to negotiate for a fair settlement.
Get the strong arm
Georgia’s “One Free Bite” Rule
Georgia law used to have a “one free bite” rule that didn’t hold an owner liable unless they knew or should have known that the animal had vicious or dangerous propensities. However, this law was overturned in Steagald v. et al v. Eason et al. S16G0293 when it was shown that snapping or jumping at a person are often simply unsuccessful bites.
While previous law dictated a dog must have bitten once before, that is no longer necessary for an owner to be held liable for a dog bite or attack. This might make it easier for you to seek compensation for the dog bite or animal attack.
What to Do If You Know the Dog’s Owner
Dog bites can happen when the dog’s owner is a friend or family member. You might be reluctant to report the bite or take legal action against someone you care about. However, it’s important to protect your legal rights so you don’t get stuck paying for costly medical bills and other damages.
We find that most dog owners are glad that insurance exists to help if their dog bites a friend or family member. Plus, you’re mostly dealing with their insurance company—not the owner directly—when seeking the compensation you deserve. A personal injury claim is not personal, but rather a way to uphold your rights and not get stuck paying the costs of a bite you didn’t cause.
For assistance in handling this kind of delicate situation, contact a dog bite lawyer today. They can help you gather evidence of the bite, build a strong claim, and communicate with the insurance company on your behalf. You can focus on being with family and healing from your injuries, and we’ll handle the legal side of things.
Talk to a Dog Bite and Animal Attack Lawyer in Sugar Hill, GA for Free Today
Many injury lawyers will say that they take dog bite cases, but you’ll want to work with someone who actually has the experience to back up their services. Dog bites can be complex, and you need a lawyer who specializes in these types of cases. At John Foy & Associates, we have been working on dog bite and animal attack cases for more than 20 years.
Contact us today and we’ll give you a FREE consultation to go over the details of your case. We do not charge a fee unless we win money in your case, so there is no risk to you. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online to get started with your FREE consultation.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form