Dog bites can be painful and terrifying. Most of us love our furry friends, but when one of them bites, it can cause life-long damages. If a dog bit you or a loved one, you probably need a dog bite lawyer. Below, we’ll explain why.
Owner negligence is usually the reason for a dog bite. In Georgia, dog owners have a duty to control their dogs. If a dog bites, the owner could be responsible (Georgia Code Section 51-2-7). However, you will likely need help getting the compensation you deserve.
Call John Foy & Associates to schedule a FREE consultation today. Our lawyers have over 20 years of experience. We can explain your best legal options. Contact us online today.
Why Should I Hire a Dog Bite Lawyer?
The moments after a dog bite are frustrating and confusing. You might wonder what you should do first. Hiring a dog bite lawyer will ensure you take actions that benefit your case.
The dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance should cover dog bites. That means you can likely file a personal injury claim with the insurer. However, it’s rarely that easy.
Insurance companies don’t make the claim process easy. They will often use tactics like:
- Calling you and using anything you say against you.
- Doubting or underplaying your injuries.
- Making you feel like the first lowball offer is all you can get.
- Trying to convince you that you don’t need a lawyer.
- Asking you to give a recorded statement.
Insurance adjusters know what they’re doing. They will work to pay you as little as possible. But dog bite lawyers also know how to do their jobs. A dog bite lawyer will protect your rights every step of the way.
How a Dog Bite Lawyer Helps Your Case
At the very least, we recommend contacting a dog bite lawyer for a consultation. Most injury lawyers (like John Foy & Associates) offer a free consultation. Talking to a lawyer will give you a good idea of your legal options.
A dog bite lawyer can help your case by:
- Proving that the dog owner was negligent before the attack.
- Sending investigators to gather evidence.
- Investigating the dog’s past.
- Gathering eyewitnesses statements.
- Working with experts to compile information.
- Communicating and negotiating with the insurer for you.
Insurance companies are more likely to take you seriously if you have a lawyer. It will tell the insurer that you plan to fight for fair compensation. The insurer might offer a fair settlement sooner.
Dog bite victims without lawyers rarely cover all of their costs. Dog bites can leave you with thousands of dollars in medical bills. You might also have lost wages. Many victims have emotional trauma for years.
Schedule a Free Consultation Today
Don’t get stuck paying for a dog owner’s mistakes. Contact a dog bite lawyer who can help you fight. The good news is that you won’t have to pay anything upfront.
At John Foy & Associates, we don’t charge you a thing unless we win your case. To schedule a FREE, no-risk consultation or contact us online. We are available 24/7 to assist you.
What Should I Do if a Dog Bites Me?
If a dog bites you or a loved one, you probably have a case. You can usually file a personal injury claim with the owner’s insurance.
You can begin building your case by:
- Taking pictures of your injuries, the dog who bit you, and the entire scene.
- Asking anyone nearby if they recognize the dog.
- Getting contact information for eyewitnesses.
- Reporting the dog bite to the police and Animal Control.
- Saving medical records and other evidence of your damages.
Also, contact a dog bite lawyer as soon as possible. Your lawyer will guide you through the best actions to take. They can help calculate your damages so that you know what settlement you deserve.
Will the Dog’s Owner Try to Fight My Claim?
It’s possible. Negligent dog owners do not like to admit fault. The owner might say that you:
- Provoked the dog into attacking you.
- Were trespassing on private property when the dog bit you.
- Were partially responsible for the dog attack.
Most of the time, these arguments are just an attempt to deny responsibility. However, each defense is just another reason you might need a lawyer.
Your lawyer will know how to respond to each argument. An experienced dog bite lawyer will be well-versed in common dog owner defenses and how to handle them.
At the very least, it’s smart to schedule a consultation with a dog bite lawyer. You can discuss the details of your case and your options. From there, you can decide how to proceed.
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Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Cases
In Georgia, you have two years from the date of an accident to file a case (Georgia Code Section 9-3-33). It’s best to get started as soon as possible. You will need enough time to gather evidence and build your case.
Talk to a Dog Bite Lawyer for Free Today
At John Foy & Associates, we have been helping dog bite victims for over 20 years. Our experienced and compassionate lawyers are here for you.
We understand the stress an animal attack can have on your family. Our goal is to make the process as straightforward as possible for you. We’ll handle your case while you focus on healing.
We are available for you 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Contact us online. We’ll get you started with a FREE, no-risk consultation.
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