Dog bites can happen in an instant — but the effects can last for months or even years. From physical injuries and medical bills to lasting emotional trauma, a dog attack can leave victims overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next.

 

If you or your child was bitten by a dog in Georgia, it’s important to understand your rights. Georgia law allows victims to recover compensation, but the rules aren’t always straightforward.

 

At The Shelton Law Firm, we help dog bite victims in Douglasville, Atlanta, and throughout Georgia hold negligent dog owners accountable. Here’s what you need to know about Georgia’s dog bite laws — and how to protect yourself after an attack.

 

Does Georgia Have a “One-Bite Rule”?

 

Not exactly.

 

Georgia uses a modified version of the “one-bite rule.” That means a dog owner can be held liable if:

1. They knew the dog had a tendency to bite(i.e., the dog had shown aggression before), or

2. The dog was not properly restrained — for example, if it was off-leash in violation of a local leash ordinance.

In other words, you don’t necessarily have to prove the dog had bitten someone before. If the owner violated a leash law or failed to control the dog, they may still be legally responsible.

 

Key Elements of a Georgia Dog Bite Claim

To hold a dog owner liable in Georgia, you generally must prove:

• The dog was dangerous or aggressive, and

• The owner knew or should have known the dog posed a risk, and

• The owner failed to properly restrain the dog (leash, fence, etc.), and

• You didn’t provoke the dog or trespass at the time of the attack

That might sound complicated — and it can be. But with the right evidence, an experienced attorney can build a strong case for compensation.

 

What Compensation Can You Recover?

If a dog bite claim is successful, you may be entitled to damages such as:

• Medical bills (emergency care, surgery, infection treatment)

• Future medical care (plastic surgery, scar revision)

• Lost wages or time off work

• Pain and suffering

• Emotional distress (especially in child victims)

• Permanent scarring or disfigurement

In rare cases, punitive damages may be awarded if the owner’s behavior was especially reckless — such as failing to control a dog they knew to be dangerous.

 

What If the Dog Belongs to a Friend or Neighbor?

 

This is a common concern — and a good question.

 

Most dog bite claims are paid through the dog owner’s homeowners or renters insurance, not out of their pocket. Filing a claim doesn’t mean you’re “suing” your friend — it means you’re seeking compensation from their insurance company, which is exactly why that coverage exists.

 

What If My Child Was Bitten by a Dog?

Children are the most frequent victims of dog bites — and their injuries are often more severe, both physically and emotionally. In Georgia, parents can file a claim on behalf of their child. The court may appoint a guardian ad litem if necessary to ensure the child’s interests are protected.

 

At The Shelton Law Firm, we take special care in child injury cases. We fight for compensation not just for the visible injuries, but also for the trauma and fear a child may carry long after the attack.

 

What Should I Do After a Dog Bite?

Here’s what to do as soon as possible after a dog attack in Georgia:

1. Get medical treatment — even for seemingly minor injuries (dog bites can easily become infected)

2. Report the bite to your local animal control or police

3. Take photos of the injury, the scene, and the dog (if possible)

4. Gather information about the dog and owner

5. Contact a personal injury lawyer before speaking to the dog owner’s insurance

The sooner you act, the better the chances of preserving evidence and building a strong claim.

 

How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in Georgia?

In most cases, you have two years from the date of the attack to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, evidence (like vet records or witness statements) may become harder to get over time — so it’s always better to speak with a lawyer sooner rather than later.

 

Final Thoughts

Dog bites can be traumatic, painful, and expensive — but you don’t have to deal with the aftermath alone. Georgia law gives victims the right to seek compensation when dog owners fail to protect others from harm.

 

Call The Shelton Law Firm at 470-334-9829 or send us a message to schedule your free consultation.
We’ll walk you through your options and help you take the next step — with compassion, clarity, and no fee unless we win.