Dog Bite Injury Lawyers in Georgia
Justice. Healing. Accountability.
A dog attack happens in seconds—but the impact can last a lifetime. Victims often face severe injuries, scarring, trauma, and costly medical treatment. At Brandon Smith Law, we help Georgia families recover physically, emotionally, and financially after a dog bite or animal attack. Our mission is simple: to hold negligent owners accountable and secure full compensation for our clients.
Understanding Dog Bite Liability in Georgia
Under O.C.G.A. § 51-2-7, Georgia law allows victims to recover damages when a dog’s owner:
Knew or should have known the dog was dangerous, or
Violated a leash or restraint law, and
The injured person did not provoke the animal and was lawfully present.
Georgia’s “one-bite rule” doesn’t give owners a free pass—it focuses on what they knew or should have known about the dog’s behavior. Local ordinances in Atlanta, Gwinnett, Cobb, and other counties also play a key role in proving negligence.
You deserve more than excuses. Our attorneys use evidence like prior complaints, leash violations, and veterinary records to prove liability and pursue justice.
What To Do After a Dog Bite or Attack
Quick, smart action after a dog bite can make a major difference in your recovery and your case. Follow these steps:
Get to safety and move away from the dog.
Call 911 or seek immediate medical care. Dog bites can cause serious infections and nerve damage.
Report the attack to animal control or law enforcement to document the incident and check for rabies.
Identify the dog and its owner—get names, addresses, and contact details.
Document everything. Take photos, collect witness information, and preserve torn clothing or property.
We’ll guide you through every step, from evidence preservation to claim filing, so you can focus on healing.
Why Dog Bite Cases Require Skilled Legal Representation
Dog bite cases may seem straightforward, but they often involve complex liability questions and emotional challenges. Here’s why having experienced counsel matters:
Nuanced laws:
Georgia’s liability standards depend on prior complaints, breed, and leash compliance.
Local differences:
County and city ordinances vary widely and affect how claims are proven.
Insurance disputes:
Homeowner’s insurers often minimize claims or blame victims.
Serious injuries:
Dog attacks frequently cause disfigurement, infection, and long-term trauma—especially in children.
At Brandon Smith Law, we understand both the legal and emotional sides of these cases. Our attorneys fight for the maximum recovery while offering compassion and clear communication at every step.
Who May Be Held Responsible
Liability for a dog bite can extend beyond the pet owner. Depending on the facts, responsible parties may include:
Dog owners or keepers – for failing to restrain or control the animal
Property owners or landlords – who allowed a known dangerous dog on their property
Dog walkers or caretakers – if they acted negligently
Homeowner’s insurance companies – which often cover these incidents under liability policies
Our legal team conducts a thorough investigation to identify every possible source of recovery, ensuring that no responsible party is overlooked.
Common Dog Bite Injuries & Available Compensation
Dog attacks can result in severe and lasting harm, including:
Deep puncture wounds and lacerations
Nerve or muscle damage
Broken bones or facial trauma
Infections such as MRSA or rabies
Scarring and permanent disfigurement
Psychological distress (PTSD, anxiety, fear)
Victims may recover three main types of damages:
Economic Damages
Covers financial losses such as:
Medical expenses and hospital bills
Surgery, reconstructive, and rehabilitation costs
Lost income or reduced earning capacity
Non-Economic Damages
Compensates for:
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Scarring or disfigurement
Loss of enjoyment of life
Punitive Damages
May apply in cases of extreme negligence, such as knowingly allowing a dangerous dog to roam freely.
Every case is different. We work with medical experts, psychologists, and financial analysts to ensure your settlement reflects the true cost of your recovery.
Time Limits and Why You Must Act Fast
Don’t delay. The sooner we start, the stronger your case will be.
In Georgia, victims typically have two years from the date of injury to file a dog bite lawsuit. However, acting quickly is crucial because:
Witness memories fade
Animal control records can be lost
Insurance companies move fast to limit payouts
If the victim is a child, certain time extensions may apply—but early legal action still provides the strongest foundation for success.
The Brandon Smith Law Advantage
Choosing the right law firm can make all the difference. Here’s what sets Brandon Smith Law apart:
Proven Results
Millions recovered for injured clients through skillful advocacy and relentless pursuit of justice.
Comprehensive Resources
Extensive legal insight and support across injury, liability, civil, and workplace cases.
Compassionate Representation
Guiding you with care and understanding through every step of your recovery and legal journey.
Clear Communication
Keeping you informed with honest updates, plain answers, and full transparency at every turn.
No Upfront Fees
You pay nothing unless we win—our success is measured by the justice we achieve for you.
Take the First Step Toward Justice
You shouldn’t have to face medical bills, emotional distress, and insurance pushback alone. Let our personal injury lawyers handle the legal fight while you focus on recovery.
Get a Free Case Evaluation
📞 (678) 831-5278
📍 Office: 5425 Peachtree Pkwy NW, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092
🕒 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Our Georgia dog bite attorneys will listen to your story, explain your rights, and outline your best path forward—with no obligation and no upfront cost.
You deserve justice, healing, and peace of mind. Brandon Smith Law is here to make sure you get them.
