Atlanta Dog Bite Lawyers

Have you or a family member been bitten or attacked by a dog in Atlanta, GA? Put The Millar Law Firm’s 30+ years’ experience to work for you.

The Millar Law Firm specializes in dog bite and attack cases and claims. Over the past three decades we have handled cases in Atlanta and across the State of Georgia for adults and children attacked, bitten and mauled by vicious dogs. We hold dog owners and keepers accountable for these terrifying incidents. 

Our dog and animal attack lawyers have helped many neighbors, park visitors, business invitees and delivery drivers recover insurance settlements and verdicts from negligent and careless dog owners. 

Table of Contents

At The Millar Law Firm, as your Atlanta dog bite lawyer, we partner with you ensuring every piece of evidence is in place, and fighting the insurance company for you. We vow to be your steadfast advocate, keeping you informed every step of the way. Excellence isn’t just what we pursue; it’s the standard we set for ourselves and our clients. 

Understanding Atlanta’s Dog Bite Laws 

How Our Lawyers Can Guide You 

With 31 years of experience exclusively in personal injury law within the Atlanta metro area, we have extensive knowledge of the dog bite laws that matter for legal claims. 

Atlanta’s Leash Law, Section 110-70 borrows from and applies Fulton County Ordinance Section 34-205 which requires that dogs allowed off the premises of the owner or keeper must be kept on a leash no more than 6 feet long and under the control of a “competent person” (someone capable of controlling the dog) and further requiring that dogs are not allowed without leashes in Atlanta City Parks unless within a defined off-leash area, usually known as the “dog-park” portion of the park.  

Georgia also law requires that the owner or keeper of a dangerous dog must keep the dog on a leash 6 feet long or shorter and under the control of a competent person when the dog is off its home property. O.C.G.A. 4-8-29. 

A dangerous dog is defined under Georgia law as a dog that has previously bitten a human or has behaved aggressively in such a way that a resonable person felt threatened by the dog or has killed a pet off the owners property. O.C.G.A. 4-8-21. 

These state laws and local ordinances as well as other local laws apply throughout the Atlanta Metro area, and to neighborhoods in which The Millar Law Firm handles cases, including Decatur, Marietta, Buckhead, Johns Creek, Riverdale, College Park, areas of Atlanta in Dekalb, Fulton, Cobb, Clayton and Gwinnett Counties.   

What is My Dog Bite Case Worth? 

Atlanta, Georgia Dog Attack Settlements and Verdicts 

You might be asking, “What is my dog bite case worth?” or “What does an average payout for a Georgia dog bite case look like?” With extensive experience handling dog bite cases in Atlanta, we are familiar with the common scenarios that result in dog attacks as well as the injuries resulting from such attacks. Although no attorney is likely to be able to give an exact value of your claim during an initial free phone consultation, we have a great deal of experience in these cases and we can usually provide an assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of your potential case, as well as the relative value. 

Our many years of dealing with homeowners and business insurance companies have given us a strong understanding of potential compensation values and ranges for a wide variety of dog bite injuries. We understand how Atlanta and Georgia courts value lacerations and scars from dog attacks. Contact us today. Our evaluations and consultations are free. 

Our Case Results

Dog Bite Settlements and Verdicts The Millar Law Firm Has Achieved 

Over 30 years of handling Atlanta-area dog bite cases, our Atlanta law firm has achieved many significant verdicts and settlements in dog bite case, including: 

• Numerous policy limit recoveries of $100,000.00, $300,000.00 and even $500,000.00 from the Georgia homeowner’s insurance policies of negligent dog-owners. 
• $1,000,000.00 from a business insurance policy for a mauling caused by a vicious guard-dog, where the victim was hospitalized and underwent multiple surgeries. 
• Policy limit recoveries from insurance companies after an adjuster initially denied the claim by blaming the victim for running away or provoking the attack. 
• Emotional distress, such as when we have helped young-children recover after traumatic dog attacks in Atlanta that required scar-revision surgeries and PTSD counseling.  

Top-Rated Attorneys and Law Firm Reviews 

Our Attorneys all hold J.D. degrees (Doctor of Law) from Top Law Schools, including Emory University, Mercer University, University of Missouri School of Law and other top law schools.  We have hundreds of 5-Star Reviews on Google and have been named to Georgia’s SuperLawyer’s listing each year since 2019.  Less than 5% of Georgia Personal injury lawyers are named each year.  Other awards and rankings include AV Rating from Martindale Hubble (the top attorney rating service in the USA), and a perfect 10.0 Rating from AVVO. 

Your Immediate Steps After a Dog Bite: Legal Advice From Our Lawyers

When we work with a dog bite victim in Atlanta, we provide practical immediate legal advice concerning what to do and what not to do. This includes how to speak with police and animal control, guidelines on using social media after an attack and advice on what to say (and not to say) to a property or homeowner’s insurance company or the owner of the attacking dog. 

We also recommend seeking immediate medical attention to document injuries properly and keeping detailed records of all medical treatments and expenses. Additionally, we generally advise our clients to avoid signing any documents or agreements without consulting us first, ensuring they don’t inadvertently waive their rights or accept an inadequate settlement. 

How Do Lawyers Use My Medical Information? 

Homeowner’s and business property insurance company adjusters and lawyers often compare the timeline between when you were attacked and when you sought medical attention. They are usually looking for pre-existing conditions or delays in treatment. If you delay treatment even for a few days or a week, they may question whether the dog attack actually caused your injury in order to try to lower the value of your claim. 

What Are My Legal Rights After a Bite or Attack? 

You may be wondering what your legal rights are when you or a family member have been the victim of a dog bite. 

Dog bite victims have specific legal rights designed to protect them and ensure they receive fair compensation for their injuries. Our experienced Atlanta dog attack lawyers will advocate for your rights and guide you through the legal process. 

Here are the key things we focus on: 

• Right to Compensation: You can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the dog bite. 
• Liability of the Dog Owner: Georgia law holds dog owners liable for injuries if they knew their dog was dangerous or if they were negligent in controlling their dog. 
• Medical Documentation: Accurate medical documentation is crucial in dog bite cases. We will work with you and your medical providers to be sure all your injuries are properly recorded. 
• Negotiation and Settlement: Insurance companies will attempt to lower your settlement. Our lawyers will negotiate on your behalf to get you a fair settlement. If necessary, we will take your case to court. 
• Empathetic Support: Dog bites and attacks can be traumatic. Our team will ensure you feel supported every step of the way. 
• No Upfront Fees: We work on a contingency fee basis. This means you won’t pay us unless we win your case. This allows you to work with us without the financial stress of legal bills. 

Atlanta Dog Bite FAQ 

Seeking Legal Advice? Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about Atlanta and Georgia dog bite and attack cases. 

Who Is Responsible for Your Dog Bite Injury? 

The owner of the dog that attacked you may be held responsible for your costs in some circumstances. 

The owner’s insurance company might offer to pay your medical expenses, but they rarely offer to pay for the remainder of your costs, which can be cripplingly expensive. 

If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog attack, it is important that you learn how to make a complete claim that includes not just medical costs but also other damages including pain and suffering and quality of life changes. The law in Georgia is there to protect you from expenses caused by another person’s negligence. An experienced Atlanta personal injury lawyer can be your ally and explain the steps you should take to ensure your needs are covered. 

Why Should I Retain a Lawyer for My Dog Bite Case? 

Hiring an experienced lawyer is essential to ensure your rights are fully protected. They can help you navigate the legal system, gather and present necessary evidence, and engage in negotiations with insurance companies. 

What Type of Evidence is Needed for a Dog Bite Case? 

Important evidence in a dog bite case includes your medical records, photographs of your injuries, witness statements, and any documentation of prior incidents involving the dog. An attorney will collect and present this evidence to the insurance company on your behalf. 

How Does an Attorney Assist with Insurance Company Negotiations? 

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize their liability. An attorney will manage all communications with the insurance company, ensuring your claim is given the gravity it deserves and protecting you from being coerced into accepting an inadequate settlement offer. 

What Compensation is Available for a Dog Bite Injury? 

Compensation in dog bite cases may encompass medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any long-term effects on your quality of life. An attorney will diligently pursue a settlement that comprehensively addresses all your damages. 

What is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Dog Bite Claim? 

The statute of limitations for filing a dog bite claim varies by jurisdiction. In Georgia, you typically have two years from the date of the incident to initiate legal proceedings. An attorney will ensure all procedural deadlines are met to preserve your right to compensation. 

More Facts You Should Know About Dog Attack Cases 

Although dogs are often playful and loving companions, dog bites are a common occurrence. When a dog attacks, its bite can injure the victim’s soft tissues and bones badly enough to make daily tasks a challenge. 

If you’ve been injured by a dog bite, then the dog’s owner may be responsible for your injuries. Here’s what you should know. 

Dogs Have the Strength to Severely Damage Muscles 

All dogs, even small breed, can be dangerous. Dog attacks are less about the dog’s breed, than about the dog’s disposition and history. 

The powerful jaws of some dogs have enough force to crush and damage skin, muscle, ligaments, tendons, and bone. While tears and punctures to the flesh are often part of this damage, severe injuries can occur without the animal’s mouth ever perforating the skin. Such injuries are called crush injuries, which happen when the victim’s clothing protects the skin from contact with teeth, but the pressure and force of the bite damage underlying tissue. 

The jaws of a large dog can exert pressure in excess of 450 pounds per square inch. This can result in deep puncture or crush injuries. Other dogs are known to use their canine teeth to hold the victim while shaking their head from side to side, which can cause more extensive tissue-tearing injuries. 

Children Are Likely Victims of Dog Attacks 

Most dog bite injuries happen to children aged 5 to 9 years of age. Kids of this age typically do not understand the potential danger dogs can represent. Therefore, they’re more likely to approach them fearlessly. However, dog attacks can and do happen to people of all ages. 

Dog bite damage is statistically most common to the extremities, including the hands, arms, feet, legs, face, head, and neck. In small children, the tissues, blood vessels, ligaments, and bones in these areas have little protection from muscles and fat so injuries can be much more severe. 

What Happens to Damaged Muscles After a Dog Bite 

The most common complication associated with dog attacks is infection. According to MedScape.com there are at least 64 varieties of bacteria known to be found in canine saliva. Such bacteria can be introduced to the victim’s body when there is a puncture wound or laceration associated with a bite. 

Infections can develop quickly and spread throughout the body if not treated properly. This can be a potentially deadly situation in people with compromised immune systems or those who suffer from conditions like diabetes, cancer, or HIV. 

Symptoms of Infections from a Dog Bite Include: 

• Tenderness near the bite 
• Redness, pain, or swelling at the site of the injury 
• Pus or fluid oozing from the wound 
• Loss of feeling near the site 
• Difficulty moving the fingers or toes of the area bitten 
• Red streaks emanating from or near the injury 
• Swelling lymph nodes 
• Chills or fever 
• Fatigue 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Shaking, trembling, or muscle weakness 

Even with proper medical attention to bite wounds, other damage like deep bruising of the muscle and bone can be present with or without obvious skin lacerations. Bruising happens whenever blood vessels are damaged by crushing or tearing, causing them to leak into the surrounding tissue. This can be referred to as a contusion. 

The location of the bite and the victim’s age play important parts in the treatment of dog bites. The young and the elderly have less protective tissue and can experience more traumatic damage from punctures, flesh-tearing, or even deep bruising than other individuals. 

Following an injury, the human body will work to immobilize the affected area. Therefore, swelling and pain may occur following a dog bite as the injury heals. The following symptoms suggest bruising of the tissues and bone: 

• Tenderness or pain around the injury 
• Discoloration of the skin near the site of the injury 
• Difficulty in moving the surrounding joints (muscle bruising) 
• Blood that collects under the skin near the injured site, which is called a hematoma 

Occasionally, even long after the dog attack, the trauma of the bite can trigger a serious condition known as muscular sarcoidosis. This happens when clumps of inflammatory tissue called granulomas develop around the injury, ultimately impacting the joints and bones as arthritis, and causing mobility issues. 

How Medical Professionals Commonly Treat Dog Bite Muscle Injuries 

After a dog bite, it’s crucial to seek medical attention to treat the damage or the wound. Even seemingly harmless bites may lead to severe damage or infection if left untreated. 

For muscle trauma, doctors generally recommend what’s known as the RICE treatment. 

• Rest – Limited physical activity may be recommended to protect the injury from further damage. 
• Ice – Doctors often recommend applying ice packs to your injury to reduce pain, swelling, and bleeding. Wrapping ice in a damp cloth or towel can keep it away from direct contact with the skin. 
• Compression – Your doctor may suggestwrapping your injury with an elastic bandage. Compression may provide additional support, prevent bleeding, and reduce swelling. 
• Elevation – Medical providers sometimes recommend keeping the injury above your heart level when resting. Elevation of the injury increases the circulation of blood to the site and reduces swelling. 

It’s important to follow all recommendations from your doctor after a dog bite. Their guidance will help ensure your injury does not become worse and will promote healing. 

If your doctor suspects severe damage, imaging tests, like an X-Ray or MRI may be recommended. These tests can reveal deeper damage and will determine whether or not hospitalization or surgical intervention is necessary. 

When an injury disrupts the ordinary use of the impacted body parts, medical procedures may be necessary to restore its function. Physical therapy may be prescribed as you heal to preserve and restore muscle tone and function of surrounding tissues, tendons, and muscles. 

When more extensive medical care is required, medical bills can begin to add up quickly. 

How Injured Muscles May Impact a Person’s Life 

No two dog bites are alike. Of course, factors like the victim’s age and health status, the severity of the injury, the medical costs, and quality of life issues can be all be different. 

Some dog bites may require surgical procedures, which can lead to lost time from work and pain and suffering that continues for weeks or months. And in severe cases, prolonged pain and mobility problems can mean unwelcome lifestyle changes that last forever. 

Fortunately, the law in Georgia makes it possible for victims to gain compensation for some costs and losses. The following list of expenses can be included in your claim against the dog owner, who may be held responsible for your injuries. 

• Medical costs: Any emergency room visits, hospitalization, follow-up visits, prescription and over-the-counter medicines, bandages, crutches or braces, prosthetic devices, and physical therapy should be included in your claim. 
• Lost wages: Compensation you did not receive because of lost time at work due to the initial event and any follow-up treatment should be considered in a claim. If the injury makes it impossible for you to resume your regular job, you may be compensated for changes in your potential future income. 
• Costs for care: If your injuries require you to pay someone to complete your usual daily tasks, such as grocery shopping, lawn care, housekeeping, or childcare, then these costs can be included in your claim. 

Attorneys Fees and What We Charge 

Is Legal Representation Affordable for Dog Bite Cases? 

The Millar Law Firm handles dog bite cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning we receive payment only if you obtain a settlement or favorable judgment. This arrangement makes legal representation accessible to those seeking justice for injuries. 

You want a lawyer with experience in handling dog bite cases and knowledge of local laws. Our team comes equipped with three decades of experience. 

You should also check the lawyer’s reputation and client reviews online. Testimonials can give you insight into their professionalism and success in securing fair settlements. 

You will also want a lawyer that provides personalized attention, listens to your concerns, and keeps you informed. 

Be sure the lawyer has the resources to conduct thorough investigations. A strong support team can make a difference when building a strong case.