Animal bites, particularly from dogs, are more common than many people realize. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 4.5 million dog bites occur in the U.S. each year, and about 800,000 of those bites require medical attention. While some bites are minor and heal quickly, others result in serious injuries, infections, emotional trauma, or permanent scarring. If you or someone you love has been bitten by an animal, especially on someone else’s property or due to a pet owner’s negligence, contacting a personal injury attorney servicing Augusta, GA should be one of your first steps.
Here’s why calling a personal injury lawyer is crucial after an animal bite incident.
1. Understanding Your Legal Rights
Animal bite laws vary by state. Some states follow a “strict liability” rule, where pet owners are automatically responsible for bites, even if the animal has no history of aggression. Others require victims to prove negligence on the part of the owner. An experienced personal injury attorney understands these laws and can help you determine whether you have a viable claim and what your legal rights are. Without professional guidance, you might unknowingly give up your right to compensation.
2. Maximizing Compensation
A bite from a dog, cat, or exotic pet can cause more than just physical injuries. Victims often face high medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, and, in severe cases, permanent disfigurement. Insurance companies may offer quick settlements, but these are often much lower than what victims truly deserve. A personal injury attorney can evaluate the full scope of your damages, including future medical treatment or therapy, and fight for the maximum compensation on your behalf.
3. Handling Insurance Companies
Pet owners often carry homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policies that cover animal bite incidents. However, insurance companies are not on your side—they aim to minimize payouts and close cases quickly. Adjusters may downplay your injuries, dispute liability, or pressure you into accepting a low offer. A personal injury lawyer acts as your advocate, handling all communication with insurers and ensuring that your rights are protected throughout the claims process.
4. Proving Liability and Negligence
To win an animal bite case, you often need to prove that the pet owner was negligent or failed to take reasonable precautions. This may involve gathering evidence such as witness statements, veterinary records, prior complaints against the animal, or surveillance footage. An attorney knows how to build a strong case using this evidence. They may also work with experts, such as medical professionals or animal behaviorists, to support your claim.
5. Addressing Long-Term Consequences
Animal bites can lead to serious complications, including infections like rabies or tetanus, nerve damage, and psychological trauma. Children, in particular, are vulnerable to long-term effects such as fear of animals or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). An attorney helps ensure that any settlement or court award accounts for both current and future costs, including therapy, reconstructive surgery, and other long-term care.
6. Navigating Complex Legal Procedures
Legal claims, especially those involving injuries and insurance companies, can be complex and time-consuming. There are strict deadlines (statutes of limitations) for filing lawsuits, and missing these deadlines can mean forfeiting your right to compensation. A personal injury attorney will keep track of deadlines, handle the paperwork, and guide you through every step of the legal process so you can focus on healing.
7. Peace of Mind
After a traumatic event like an animal bite, the last thing you need is the added stress of legal battles. Hiring a personal injury attorney provides peace of mind. You’ll know someone is fighting for your rights, advocating for your well-being, and working to secure the compensation you deserve.
Call Cook & Tolley if You’ve Been Bitten by an Animal in Augusta, GA
Suffering an animal bite can be a life-altering experience, both physically and emotionally. While your first priorities should always be medical treatment and safety, don’t overlook the legal implications. A personal injury attorney can help you navigate the complex legal landscape, hold the responsible party accountable, and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries. If you’ve been bitten, consult with a qualified attorney as soon as possible.
One of our experienced attorneys at Cook & Tolley can help you with your animal bite case. With a proven track record in personal injury cases, we are committed to helping you secure the compensation you deserve. Request a consultation today and let us guide you through every step of the legal process. Your recovery is our priority!
Cook & Tolley, LLP
304 E Washington St
Athens, GA 30601
(706) 549-6111
https://cooktolley.com/
