A dog attack can cause deep wounds, infections, nerve damage, scarring, and lasting emotional trauma – especially for children. If you or your child was bitten in Cartersville or North Georgia, The Delashmit Firm can help you hold the dog’s owner accountable and recover for your injuries. Founding attorney Hunter Delashmit uses his insurance-defense background to deal with homeowner and renter insurers who try to minimize these claims. Call (770) 341-0559 for a free consultation.
Georgia’s dog bite law
Under Georgia’s dog bite statute (O.C.G.A. § 51-2-7), a dog owner can be held liable when their animal injures someone, particularly if the owner knew the dog was dangerous or vicious, or if the dog was not properly restrained in violation of a local leash or animal-control ordinance. Many Bartow County and city ordinances have leash requirements that can be key evidence in your case.
Who pays for a dog bite injury?
Compensation often comes through the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. That means you are usually dealing with an insurance company, not just the owner – and those insurers work to limit payouts. We handle them for you and pursue compensation for medical bills, future care, scarring and disfigurement, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
What to do after a dog bite
- Get medical care right away – dog bites carry a high infection risk.
- Identify the dog and its owner, and get their contact and insurance information.
- Photograph your injuries and the location, and report the bite to animal control.
- Keep records of all treatment, and call a lawyer before talking to the owner’s insurer.
Frequently asked questions
Not automatically. Under O.C.G.A. § 51-2-7, you generally must show the owner knew the dog was dangerous or that the dog was unrestrained in violation of a leash or animal-control ordinance. We gather that evidence for you.
A claim usually goes through their homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, not their personal pocket. Pursuing a claim is about accessing that coverage to pay your medical bills.
Generally two years from the date of the bite (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33). For an injured child, different timing may apply, so speak with a lawyer promptly.
Contact a Cartersville dog bite lawyer
If you or your child was injured by a dog in Cartersville or North Georgia, call The Delashmit Firm at (770) 341-0559 or contact us online for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win.