If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Georgia, the emotional and physical scars can last far longer than any initial injuries. The pain of being bitten is only part of the struggle; many dog bite victims also face the lasting effects of scarring and disfigurement. If this is your case, you may be feeling overwhelmed, confused, and unsure of where to turn. The good news is that you don’t have to navigate this challenging time alone. Our team is here to help guide you through the legal process, ensuring that you understand your rights and the potential for compensation.
Understanding the Impact of Scarring and Disfigurement
When a dog bites, it often causes deep physical injuries that can leave permanent scars or cause disfigurement. These injuries are more than just skin-deep; they affect your emotional health, your sense of self-worth, and how others perceive you. Many people who suffer from scarring or disfigurement after a dog bite also experience a range of emotional challenges such as anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem.
In Georgia, if you’ve been bitten by a dog and are left with permanent scars, you may be entitled to compensation. Scarring and disfigurement are not just visible injuries—they are long-lasting reminders of what you’ve been through. Whether on your face, arms, or other visible areas of your body, these scars can have a profound impact on your daily life. It’s important to know that compensation is available for both the physical and emotional toll of your injuries.
Georgia’s Laws on Dog Bite Incidents
Under Georgia law, the owner of a dog can be held responsible if their dog bites someone. Dog owners are required to ensure that their pets do not pose a threat to others, especially in public spaces. If a dog bite leads to scarring or disfigurement, the victim may be entitled to compensation for their medical bills, pain and suffering, and other related damages.
In some cases, if the dog has a history of aggressive behavior or has bitten someone before, the owner may be held to a higher standard of care. This can make it easier to prove that the dog owner is liable for the injuries caused. However, even if the dog has never shown aggression before, the owner may still be held responsible if they were negligent in preventing the attack.
Attorney At Law Attorney At Law Attorney At Law
Adam Princenthal
David May
Matthew Wilson
What Does Compensation Cover in Dog Bite Cases?
When seeking compensation for scarring and disfigurement from a dog bite, there are several factors to consider. The compensation you may be entitled to is typically divided into two broad categories: economic damages and non-economic damages.
Economic damages include tangible, measurable expenses. These may include medical bills for treatments like surgery, hospital stays, or long-term care needed for your injuries. If the bite caused you to miss work or prevents you from working in the future, you may be able to claim lost wages as part of your compensation.
Non-economic damages are more subjective. These can include compensation for the emotional suffering and mental anguish caused by your injuries. If your scars or disfigurement impact your ability to socialize, feel comfortable in public, or engage in everyday activities, this can also be factored into the total compensation. Emotional distress, pain, and suffering are often included as part of non-economic damages.
After a car accident, I contacted David May at the Lagrange office. He, and his staff, helped me with medical advice and follow up doctors visits, along with dealing with my insurance and the insurance of the woman that hit me. I have been very pleased with the service I received from David May and the Lagrange staff. They are warm and open, always there to help with advice and answer questions.” - Debau I highly recommend Adam Princenthal .I was looking for someone with years of experience in personal injury.They needed to be knowledgeable, transparent and honest.I wanted to know I was dealing directly with the lawyer I hired.Adam Princenthal could answer all the difficult questions and phone calls were returned.Adam got the settlement I was looking for in a timely manner." - Nancy K. I am glad that I was referred to Princenthal & May. Matthew met with me and gained my trust with the case. I was never left in the dark on any matters, My phone calls were either answered or returned quickly. The office staff are very friendly as well. My case was settled, with both Matthew and Adam present. Both are very professional in their work.. They work for you !!!" - Jacque Minor
How Scarring and Disfigurement Are Valued in a Dog Bite Case
In Georgia, there is no set formula to determine how much compensation a victim of a dog bite should receive for scarring and disfigurement. Instead, a variety of factors are considered, including the severity of the injuries, the location of the scars, and the long-term impact on the victim’s life.
For example, scars on a person’s face or hands, which are often in public view, may result in higher compensation amounts due to the emotional distress and social stigma that may come with such visible injuries. Additionally, the physical pain endured during recovery and the potential need for ongoing treatment or surgery may increase the value of the claim.
The age and health of the victim are also factors. Younger victims may face a longer period of adjustment and recovery, while older victims may face more severe physical challenges. Every case is unique, so having an experienced attorney on your side can help ensure that all the relevant factors are taken into account when valuing your claim.
Proving Liability in a Dog Bite Case
To win a dog bite case in Georgia, it is crucial to prove that the dog’s owner was negligent or at fault for the incident. This may involve gathering evidence such as witness statements, medical records, and expert testimony to establish how the bite occurred and why the owner should be held responsible.
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If the dog had a history of aggressive behavior or had previously bitten someone, this information can be vital in proving that the owner should have taken more precautions to prevent the attack. In some cases, surveillance footage or photos of the scene where the bite took place can help strengthen your claim.
Additionally, medical documentation is essential in proving the extent of the scarring and disfigurement. Medical records that show the severity of the injuries, the treatments you underwent, and the ongoing effects of the bite will be crucial when calculating your compensation.
The Role of an Attorney in Dog Bite Cases
Navigating a dog bite case can be challenging, especially when you are dealing with the emotional and physical pain of scarring or disfigurement. An experienced attorney can help you understand the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected. We understand the challenges you face after such a traumatic incident and are here to help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
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Our team can help gather the necessary evidence, work with medical professionals to document the long-term effects of your injuries, and negotiate with insurance companies or the dog owner’s legal team to ensure you are fairly compensated. Having an attorney who is familiar with Georgia’s dog bite laws and how to value scarring and disfigurement cases will greatly improve your chances of a successful outcome.
If you have suffered from a dog bite in Georgia that left you with scarring or disfigurement, you deserve justice. We understand that the emotional and physical toll of such an injury can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face this journey alone. At Princenthal, May & Wilson, LLC, we are committed to helping victims of dog bites get the compensation they deserve for their injuries.
We offer compassionate and experienced legal representation for clients in Georgia. Our team will work tirelessly on your behalf, helping you understand your rights and ensuring that you get the support you need throughout the legal process. Let us help you navigate the complexities of your case and fight for the compensation you are entitled to.
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog and are dealing with scarring or disfigurement, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our team is ready to help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.