What Is the Average Dog Bite Settlement Amount in Georgia?

According to the most recent data from the Insurance Information Institute*, the average dog bite settlement amount in Georgia is $57,572. While getting data about payouts for an animal attack can be helpful for general knowledge, it’s important to remember the amount you may be eligible to receive after a dog bite depends on many factors. The ultimate value of your claim will vary according to the nature of the attack, the severity of your injury, and the liable party’s insurance coverage.

What Types of Damages Can I Recover for a Georgia Dog Bite Claim?

Suffering injuries in an animal attack can result in severe injuries, excruciating pain, and debilitating emotional trauma. Working with a skilled Georgia dog bite injury attorney can maximize your chances of recovering compensation for losses like:

• Medical expenses – Dog bite victims can potentially suffer injuries such as soft tissue damage, severe bleeding, broken bones, and disfiguring trauma to the head, neck, and face. A successful claim can compensate you for past and future medical expenses associated with these injuries.
• Lost income – If the injuries from a dog attack caused you to miss work, you can seek compensation for income you would have earned if the incident never occurred. This compensation can include loss of earning potential if your injuries render you unable to work or work in a lower-paying job.
• Pain and suffering – Physical pain and psychological suffering do not have distinct dollar values. However, a skilled attorney can help you pursue money for these intangible losses. You can also recover the costs of therapy and counseling to address attack-related phobias and PTSD.
• Loss of enjoyment of life – The consequences of a dog bite can touch every aspect of an individual’s life. If you cannot enjoy the activities and pastimes you used to love, you deserve compensation for these significant losses.

What Factors Can Affect the Amount of Compensation I Could Receive?

Several factors can influence the compensation you might receive in a dog bite case:

• Severity of injuries – Severe injuries typically result in larger settlements due to increased medical costs and long-term impacts.
• The dog’s history – If the animal is classified as a dangerous dog under Georgia law, it may strengthen your case and potentially increase your compensation.
• Owner’s knowledge of the dog’s behavior – If the owner knew their dog had aggressive tendencies and failed to take precautions, it could lead to increased liability and a higher settlement.
• Your actions – If you provoked the dog or were trespassing, this might reduce the amount of compensation you can receive.
• Insurance policy limits – You can only receive insurance compensation up to the dog owner’s policy limits.
• Quality of evidence – Strong evidence, such as clear documentation of your injuries and witness statements, can support a higher settlement amount.

If I Sue for a Dog Bite, Am I Suing the Dog’s Owner or Their Insurance?

If you file a dog bite lawsuit, you are technically suing the dog’s owner. However, most dog bite cases don’t go that far. The owner’s homeowners or renters insurance company handles the claim and provides coverage up to the policy limits.

Georgia law requires owners of dogs classified as “dangerous” to carry a minimum of $15,000 in liability insurance. Owners of “vicious” dogs must purchase at least $50,000 in liability insurance. These requirements ensure that victims have a source of compensation if an attack occurs.

In some cases, if your losses exceed the dog owner’s insurance policy limits or if they don’t have insurance, you may need to pursue compensation directly from the owner’s personal assets. Contact our Athens dog bite lawyer today for assistance.

What is the Statute of Limitations for a Georgia Dog Bite Lawsuit?

In Georgia, the statute of limitations for filing a dog bite lawsuit generally requires victims to file a lawsuit within two years from the date of the attack.

Being aware of this deadline is crucial because if you don’t file your dog bite claim within this two-year window, you may lose your right to seek compensation through the court system. While some rare exceptions might extend this deadline, it is best not to rely on them and take action immediately after the incident.

Furthermore, when you seek the assistance of a Georgia dog bite attorney early on in the process, they can work to secure evidence before it disappears and interview witnesses before their memories fade. High-quality, reliable evidence can improve your chances of recovering the maximum compensation you deserve.

How Can a Lawyer Help Maximize My Dog Bite Settlement?

An experienced dog bite attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your case in several ways:

• Thorough investigation – A lawyer can gather crucial evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and any history of the dog’s aggressive behavior.
• Proper valuation of your claim – Dog bite attorneys have the training to accurately assess the total extent of your losses, including future medical costs and long-term impacts, to ensure you seek appropriate compensation.
• Negotiation skills – Experienced lawyers know how to effectively negotiate with insurance companies so their clients don’t go under-compensated.
• Understanding of liability laws – A knowledgeable attorney can leverage their knowledge of Georgia’s dog bite laws and local ordinances to build a robust case.
• Trial preparation – If the insurer refuses to offer you a fair settlement, your dog bite lawyer can prepare a compelling case for trial.

Contact a Georgia Dog Bite Lawyer

Life after suffering dog bite injuries is stressful. The compassionate and skilled legal team at R. Alan Cleveland, LLC is here to support and advocate for you during this challenging time. Our experienced Georgia personal injury attorneys have recovered $150 million to date on behalf of injured clients. We’ll pursue compensation for you with the same skill and determination.

With our law firm on your side, you can maximize your chances of recovering the full and fair compensation you need to secure a brighter future. Call us today or contact us online for a free consultation with an experienced dog bite attorney in Georgia.

*Insurance Information Institute