Who’s Liable When a Dog Attacks in Georgia? Property Owners, Landlords & More
Who’s Liable When a Dog Attacks in Georgia? Property Owners, Landlords & More
Dog bites and animal attacks can leave victims with serious physical and emotional scars. If you or someone you love has been bitten by a dog in Georgia, one of the first questions you may have is: Who’s legally responsible for the attack? In many cases, the answer isn’t as simple as pointing a finger at the dog’s owner.
Georgia law allows victims to pursue compensation, but liability can extend beyond just the person who owns the animal. Understanding how responsibility is determined can make a major difference in the outcome of your claim — and your recovery.
Dog Owner Liability Under Georgia Law
In Georgia, the dog owner is typically the first person held accountable if their animal causes harm. This includes situations where:
- The dog has previously shown aggressive behavior or bitten someone before.
- The dog was off-leash or not under control, violating local leash laws.
- The owner failed to properly secure the animal on their property.
Georgia follows a version of the “one bite rule”, meaning owners may be liable if they knew — or should have known — that the dog had a tendency to bite. However, violations of leash ordinances or other safety laws can also establish liability, even if the dog has no prior incidents.
Can Landlords Be Held Liable?
In some situations, landlords or property managers may also be responsible, especially when the attack occurs on rental property. A landlord may be liable if:
- They knew a tenant had a dangerous dog and did nothing to remove it.
- They had control over the premises where the attack occurred (e.g., common areas).
- The dog was known to be aggressive, and the landlord allowed it to remain on the property anyway.
However, landlord liability is usually limited to cases where they had prior knowledge and the ability to take preventive action.
What About Property Owners and Business Establishments?
If a dog bite happens on someone else’s property — such as a business, park, or public event — the property owner might share responsibility depending on the circumstances. Georgia premises liability laws require property owners to keep their premises reasonably safe for visitors.
A property owner or business could be liable if:
- They allowed a dangerous dog on the property without proper precautions.
- They failed to warn guests about a potentially aggressive animal.
- The dog was owned by an employee or patron, and no effort was made to protect others.
Each case depends on where the attack occurred, who had control of the area, and what safety measures were (or weren’t) in place.
Proving Negligence and Building a Strong Claim
To hold someone legally responsible for a dog bite, you must generally prove:
- The person or party owed a duty of care (to protect you or others).
- That duty was breached through inaction or poor judgment.
- The breach directly caused your injuries.
- You suffered actual damages — medical bills, lost wages, pain, and more.
That’s why it’s critical to gather evidence quickly. Medical records, photos of the injuries, witness statements, and reports from animal control can all help support your case.
Why Legal Guidance Matters
Dog bite cases often involve multiple parties, conflicting accounts, and uncooperative insurance companies. Working with an experienced attorney can help you identify all responsible parties, understand your legal options, and take swift action.
Steven N. Jones has helped clients across Atlanta and Georgia navigate complex injury cases involving animal attacks, landlord disputes, and premises liability. He understands how Georgia law works — and how to use it to protect your rights.
Don’t Let the Clock Run Out
In Georgia, you typically have two years from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury claim. Waiting too long could cost you the chance to recover damages.
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Call The Law Office of Steven N. Jones today at 404-341-4225
Or visit:
https://www.snjoneslaw.com
Let us help you hold the right parties accountable and fight for the compensation you deserve.
