The definition of a dangerous dog in Georgia is any dog that presents a danger of inflicting serious injury. The Georgia Code classifies dogs as dangerous or vicious depending on whether the dog has attacked an individual to cause serious injury, or did not cause serious injury despite attack or threat of attack. In either case, you may be eligible to file a claim to recover damages if you are attacked by an aggressive dog. Consult with an attorney to review your case.
Dangerous Dog Laws in Georgia
According to Georgia Code §4-8-21, the definition of a “dangerous dog” is one that severely punctures an individual’s skin with its teeth but does not cause serious injury. What’s more, a dog may be classified as dangerous if it attacks in such a way that it may reasonably considered to pose a serious threat despite lack of injury, or if it attacks and kills a pet animal off of the owner’s property.
Meanwhile, a dog may be classified as a “vicious dog” under Georgia law if it inflicts serious injury on an individual. However, a dog is not considered vicious or dangerous if the incident occurred while an individual was trespassing, committing certain criminal offenses, or abusing the dog.
When a report is filed that a dog may be dangerous or vicious, a dog control officer will investigate the matter. If it is determined that the dog fits this classification, the owner will be notified via certified mail. The owner may request a hearing regarding this determination within 15 days of the date on the notice. At the hearing, the dog owner may present evidence and testify against the determination. In some cases, dogs who attack or who commit repeat attacks may be euthanized per Georgia Code §4-8-25 and §4-8-26.
When an aggressive dog inflicts serious injury to a person, you may have the right to file a claim to recover damages you have sustained.
Seeking Help from an Attorney if Bitten by a Dangerous Dog
To learn more about your legal rights if you or someone you love was the victim of a dog bite or attack, contact the Law Offices of Jason Schultz at 404-474-0804. We will evaluate the details of your case and determine if you may be entitled to seek compensation through a dog bite claim. We can also further explain the laws in the state and go over the definition of a dangerous dog in Georgia.