Dog Bites
Protecting Dog Bite Victims—It’s What We Do.
Dog Bite Attorneys in Macon, GA
Dedicated to Helping You Seek Justice & Compensation
Central City Park and other parks make Macon a dog-friendly city. More than half of all Macon households own a dog. A dog really can be a man’s best friend. Pet owners know that dogs are great companions, but responsible dog owners know that dogs can be unpredictable. Responsible dog owners protect children and adults by controlling their dogs.
Few things are more frightening to a child than a dog jumping at the child. Children are the victims of half of all dog attacks that require medical attention. Adults are usually bitten in the hand or leg, but a child’s face is easily within reach of a dog’s mouth. Most little kids who get bit in Macon end up with marks on their face. Local doctors say it’s a bigger issue than people think. One bite can mean stitches, scars, or a long time at the clinic. Dog attacks can lead to infections and disfigurement. Our Macon dog attack lawyer team helps victims pursue justice against irresponsible dog owners. At Adams, Jordan & Herrington, P.C., we’ve enjoyed a track record of success and have represented countless clients over the years.
Don’t hesitate to call our team of experienced Macon dog bite attorneys at 478-743-2159 or contact us online today.
Understanding Georgia’s Dog Bite Laws
Georgia doesn’t automatically hold dog owners liable after a bite. The law looks at what happened, who had control, and whether the dog had a known history. It’s not enough that someone got hurt. You have to show the owner failed to stop it.
In 2012, Georgia passed the Responsible Dog Owner Act. That law defines who counts as an “owner.” It’s not just the person listed on the vet forms. If someone is watching a dog when it attacks, they’re responsible too. That includes family, friends, even landlords or groomers in some cases.
Some dogs get labeled as “vicious” if the injury is serious. A broken arm. Stitches. Infection. If it meets the standard, the rules are strict. Registration. Warning signs. Muzzle outside. Insurance. And if the owner ignores those rules, the charges get worse. A repeat incident can lead to a felony. And the dog gets put down.
The law makes room for exceptions. If someone was trespassing, hurting the dog, or committing a crime, that matters. But if the victim didn’t provoke the attack and the dog caused real harm, the case can move forward.
What to Do After a Dog Bite Accident
A dog lunging without warning can leave more than a wound. Parents don’t forget the panic, especially if their child was involved. If the bite caused real harm, the law may give you a path forward. It depends on what happened, where, and who was in control.
There are also several steps you can take to strengthen your dog bite case including:
- Taking pictures of the bite and injury
- Keeping detailed notes about how the attack took place
- Getting the contact information of any witnesses
- Keeping all medical records and receipts of medical expenses
We’ve handled serious dog bite cases for families across Georgia, including here in Macon. If you’re dealing with medical bills or lasting injuries, we can walk you through what comes next. The first step is a case review, and there’s no charge for that.
Contact Us Today
In most cases, dog bite claims are filed against an owner’s homeowners’ insurance, not the dog owner individually. While many people are hesitant to seek compensation by filing a claim against someone they know, it is the dog owner’s insurance company that will pay out your claim in nearly every circumstance.
If you’re unsure what to do after a dog bite, our team at Adams, Jordan & Herrington is here to help. We’ve been handling injury cases in Macon for decades, and we know how to move things forward. You won’t pay anything unless we win.
1. What happens if a dog bites me in Georgia?
You can ask for money to cover medical treatment, time off work, and what the injury has done to your body or mind. If the injury leaves a mark or changes how you live, that matters too. Every case depends on the details.
2. How long do I have to file a claim?
In Georgia, you get two years. After that, the door usually closes. It’s better not to wait. Facts fade and proof gets harder to find.
3. Do I need evidence to prove a dog bite claim
Photos of your injury, medical records, witness contacts, and details about the dog or incident location all help. In Macon, animal control reports also support your claim.
4. If I was bitten by a friend’s or family member’s dog, can I still file a claim?
You can still make a claim. Most cases are paid by the owner’s insurance, not out of pocket. This is common and usually does not hurt personal relationships.
5. What if I was partially at fault for the dog bite?
If you were less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages. Your share of the blame will reduce your payment, but it does not block your claim entirely.
6. What if a stray dog bites me in Macon?
Get medical care quickly, since rabies is a risk. Report the bite to Macon-Bibb Animal Services and describe the dog. Records help if you need support from victim assistance funds.
7. Who pays for my medical bills after a dog bite?
Most dog owners have homeowners or renters insurance to cover your costs. If not, your own health insurance may help. Save every bill and receipt for your case.
8. What if the dog belongs to a renter, not a homeowner?
It doesn’t matter who owns the house. If the renter was in charge of the dog, they can still be held responsible. Some renters have insurance that helps. Some don’t.
9. How do I report a dog bite in Macon?
Call Macon-Bibb Animal Services right away. Give details about the dog, owner, location, and how it happened. They may follow up or quarantine the dog if needed.
10. What if the dog owner refuses to give their information?
If the owner will not cooperate, try to take photos and ask witnesses for details. Report everything to animal control or police. Official reports can fill in gaps.
11. Should I get a rabies shot after a dog bite?
Ask your doctor. If the dog’s vaccine status is unknown, doctors in Macon will often suggest a rabies shot as a precaution.
12. Can I claim for scars or emotional trauma from a dog bite?
Scars, anxiety, and fear after an attack are part of your damages. Tell your doctor and lawyer. These effects may raise the value of your claim.
13. What if my neighbor’s dog bites my child on our property?
Neighbors are responsible, even on your property. In Georgia, claims are usually handled through their homeowners insurance, and many families settle with no personal conflict.
14. What should I do if a dog bite gets infected?
See a doctor as soon as possible. Infections can make recovery longer and increase your claim’s value. Keep every record and photo for your attorney.
15. How long does it take to settle a dog bite claim?
Simple claims can close in a few months. More serious injuries, or unclear facts, can take a year or more to resolve.
16. Can more than one person be held responsible for a dog attack?
Responsibility can be shared if multiple people controlled the dog or allowed unsafe conditions. Each person’s role affects their share of fault.
17. What if I was bitten at work in Macon?
Report the bite to your employer right away. Workers’ compensation may help, and you may also have a claim against the dog owner. Both can run together.
18. Should I file a claim for a minor dog bite?
Even minor bites can cause problems or get infected. Small claims help with medical bills and document the event in case symptoms worsen.
19. What if the bite happened on public property, like a park?
The owner is responsible even in public spaces. If leash rules were broken, that strengthens your claim. Report the incident and save all records.
20. Will my dog be taken away if it bites someone?
Removal is rare for a first incident. Macon officials may quarantine the dog or order training. Repeat attacks or severe injuries can lead to stricter action.
21. Can I claim lost wages if I miss work after a dog bite?
Lost wages are part of your damages. Keep pay stubs and a note from your employer to show time missed.
22. Do I need a lawyer for a dog bite case in Macon?
A lawyer helps protect your rights and handle paperwork. Most Macon attorneys offer free consultations and only get paid if you win.
23. What if the dog’s owner blames me for the bite?
Share your evidence and witness info with your lawyer. Georgia law considers both sides, but you can still recover if your fault is less than the owner’s.
24. Can children file their own dog bite claims?
A parent or guardian files for children. Courts review settlements to protect minors and may hold money until the child turns 18.
25. How can I protect myself from aggressive dogs in my neighborhood?
Avoid loose dogs and do not approach. Report known problem dogs to animal control. Walk with a friend and stay alert in high-risk areas.
Make an appointment today by calling 478-743-2159 or by contacting us online.
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