What Is the Average Settlement for Dog Bite Cases in Georgia?

Because each dog bite case is unique, there is no true average settlement. Dog bite settlements will depend on the specific factors in a claim, such as the severity of the injury and the dog’s history. The amount can range anywhere from a few thousand dollars to several tens of thousands for more serious attacks. A skilled Georgia dog bite attorney can work to negotiate a fair settlement that covers all your losses.

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

Several factors go into determining the amount a dog bite victim can recover in a personal injury claim, including:

• The extent of their dog bite injuries
• Whether they need extensive treatments or future care
• How long it takes to recover
• Whether they are left with permanent scarring or disfigurement
• The effect the injuries have on their life
• If they suffer mental trauma from the attack, such as PTSD
• Whether the dog’s owner was clearly liable
• The strength of the evidence
• The insurance policies available

Overall, the more severe your injuries are, the more you may be owed in a dog bite settlement. If you’re left with permanent scarring or nerve damage, you will likely experience the effects of the attack for the rest of your life. You need a fair financial recovery that will compensate you for your past, current, and future suffering. A Georgia dog bite attorney can help you demand it.

What Damages Could I Recover for a Georgia Dog Bite Claim?

One of the biggest impacts on your Georgia dog bite claim is the types of losses you have suffered. Your settlement will depend on how serious your injuries are, the medical treatment required, and the time you miss at work. You could be owed compensation for your:

• Medical expenses, including emergency room visits, hospital stays, medications, diagnostics, treatments, and mental health care
• Lost wages for the time you spend recovering
• Reduced earning capacity if you cannot return to your job
• Physical pain and suffering you experience due to your injuries
• Emotional distress from the attack and the effects of the bite
• Scarring and disfigurement resulting from the attack

How Do I Determine What My Dog Bite Claim Is Worth?

You have likely suffered a lot after a dog attack – physically, emotionally, and financially. You deserve a settlement that covers your losses related to the bite. However, not all of your losses are easily calculable. An experienced Georgia dog bite lawyer can use their knowledge of past settlements to determine a fair amount of compensation for your claim. This process includes calculating the value of your expenses by reviewing evidence such as your medical bills and pay stubs. They will also use various strategies to put a number on the pain and suffering you have experienced because of any trauma or other effects of the attack. Contact our Athens dog bite lawyer today.

How Can I Maximize My Compensation from My Dog Bite Case?

The proof you have in a dog bite claim can make a major difference. If evidence shows a clear picture of the dog owner’s liability and your losses, the insurer will be more willing to offer a fair settlement. Your Georgia dog bite lawyer typically must establish that the dog’s owner knew or reasonably should have known the animal was dangerous. They can use the following evidence to prove liability and maximize your compensation:

• Records of the dog’s previous violent tendencies
• Photos of the dog and their leash or enclosure
• Surveillance and other video footage of the attack
• Pictures of your injuries
• Your medical records documenting your injuries and treatment
• Eyewitness testimony
• Expert testimony about the dog’s behavior, your injuries, and your long-term prognosis

How Long Can a Dog Bite Injury Settlement Take?

Much like settlement amounts, the time it takes to settle a dog bite claim can vary greatly. One of the most important factors is how long it takes you to fully recover from your injuries. It can be difficult to determine exactly how much your dog bite injuries will cost you in the future. Your attorney will want to make sure you have a good idea of the impact your injuries have on your life and your finances.

Whether the dog’s owner or their insurer easily accepts liability can have a major impact, too. Negotiations can take some time, especially if the insurer doesn’t want to pay out. Generally, you never want to accept the first settlement offer you receive, as it likely will not cover the full extent of your losses. A dog bite lawyer will help you determine if an offer is fair or whether you should hold out a bit longer for a better settlement.

If you have to take your claim to court to pursue the money you are owed, you have limited time to begin a dog-bite lawsuit. Georgia law only gives you two years after a dog attack to file. Acting quickly after suffering a dog bite is essential to protect your right to compensation. A Georgia dog bite attorney can help make sure you file any claims in time and that the process moves efficiently. Contact our Athens personal injury lawyer today.

Contact a Georgia Dog Bite Injury Lawyer

It can be devastating when a dog becomes violent and attacks. Even small dogs can cause severe harm, requiring costly medical treatment and time to recover. If you were attacked by a dog, the negligent owner may owe you compensation for the harm you have suffered. However, it can be challenging to build a strong case proving liability. And the owner’s insurer won’t be working in your best interest. A skilled Georgia dog bite lawyer at R. Alan Cleveland, LLC can help you negotiate a settlement that fully covers your losses so you can move on and come back stronger. Contact us today to learn more in a free consultation.