Dog bites can happen suddenly and leave victims facing serious injuries, medical bills, and emotional distress. Whether you’re bitten by a neighbor’s pet, a stray, or a dog at a public place, it’s important to know your rights and the steps to take. In Georgia, dog bite laws can be complex, and protecting your health and your legal options starts with taking the right actions immediately.
At David Bell Law Firm, we’ve seen firsthand the impact dog attacks can have on victims. Here’s what you should do if you’re bitten by a dog in Augusta, GA.
- Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Dog bites can cause puncture wounds, lacerations, nerve damage, and serious infections. Even a small bite can lead to complications if not treated properly.
- Call 911 if the injury is severe.
- For minor wounds, wash the area with soap and water and seek urgent care as soon as possible.
- A medical provider will assess your injury, clean the wound, and determine if you need a tetanus shot or rabies treatment.
- Identify the Dog and Its Owner
If possible, find out:
- The dog’s owner’s name and contact information
- Proof of the dog’s rabies vaccination status
- Any witnesses to the incident
If the dog is a stray or the owner is unknown, try to remember identifying details such as breed, size, color, and location. This information will help animal control and your attorney later.
- Report the Incident
In Richmond County and throughout Augusta, you should report dog bites to Augusta Animal Services. Reporting helps create a legal record of the incident and can prevent future attacks. Authorities may quarantine the dog to check for rabies or determine if it’s dangerous under Georgia law.
- Document Everything
The more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be.
- Take clear photos of your injuries immediately and during the healing process
- Photograph the location where the attack occurred
- Save all medical bills and treatment records
- Keep a written account of your symptoms, pain levels, and how the injury affects your daily life
- Understand Georgia’s Dog Bite Laws
In Georgia, dog bite liability often depends on whether:
- The dog was considered “vicious” or “dangerous” under the law
- The owner knew about the dog’s aggressive behavior or violated leash laws
- The victim did not provoke the dog and was lawfully on the property
Unlike some states with strict liability laws, Georgia’s true test of liability is “the owner’s ‘superior knowledge of his dog’s temperament”. Raith v. Blanchard, 271 Ga. App. 723 (2005). Some keys to showing a dog’s temperament may include whether the dog has bitten someone or some other animal before, whether the dog has knocked someone down or another animal down, previous incidents of scratching or clawing someone or another animal, previously escaping from a house/yard, previously chasing someone, or some other action that shows aggressive temperament.
- Contact a Dog Bite Attorney in Augusta
Dog bite claims can be complex, especially when insurance companies are involved. The David Bell Law Firm can:
- Investigate the incident and gather evidence
- Determine if the dog’s owner can be held liable
- Negotiate with insurance companies for fair compensation
- Seek damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Protect Your Rights After a Dog Bite
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Augusta, you don’t have to handle the aftermath alone. Our team at David Bell Law Firm is here to guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more about your options.
