Is the Dog’s Breed Relevant in a Dog Bite Claim?
A question that often arises after a dog attack is whether the dog’s breed matters in determining liability or compensation. In Georgia, as in many other states, the role of breed in a dog bite claim is more nuanced than most people realize. It’s important to connect with an Atlanta dog bite lawyer if you are coping with unexpected bills after being bit.
Why Breed Still Comes Up in Cases
Under Georgia law, liability for a dog bite usually hinges on the concept of negligence. In many cases, an owner is only responsible if they knew or should have known that their dog had a tendency to be aggressive. Another way to establish liability is to prove the dog was not properly restrained as required by local leash laws.
This means that breed alone is not the determining factor. Whether the dog is a pit bull, a German shepherd, or a small terrier, what matters most is whether the owner acted responsibly and whether the dog was under proper control.
While the law does not automatically make certain breeds dangerous, the breed of an animal may still become part of the conversation. Some breeds, such as pit bulls and Rottweilers, are often perceived as more aggressive. Insurance companies may seize on these stereotypes to minimize payouts or to argue that the victim assumed the risk by interacting with the dog. Conversely, an injured party’s attorney may use breed evidence to show why the owner should have taken extra precautions.
Local Ordinances and Breed-Specific Rules
Although Georgia law does not ban specific breeds statewide, some counties and municipalities have ordinances that regulate certain breeds more strictly. For example, there may be requirements for fencing, muzzling, or carrying higher levels of liability insurance. If a dog owner failed to follow these local rules and an injury occurred, it can strengthen the victim’s case.
Regardless of breed, dog bites can cause severe harm. Puncture wounds, infections, nerve damage, and scarring are all possible. Emotional trauma, especially for children, can also be long-lasting. Medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering do not change based on the breed of the animal involved.
Because dog bite cases involve a mix of state law, local ordinances, and factual evidence about the dog’s history, it is essential to work with an attorney who understands how to build a strong claim. An experienced Atlanta dog bite lawyer can investigate whether leash laws were violated, whether the owner knew of past aggressive behavior, and whether breed-specific regulations applied.
In short, while the breed of a dog may influence perceptions and sometimes factor into legal arguments, it is not the sole or even primary element in determining liability. What truly matters is the owner’s conduct and whether reasonable steps were taken to prevent the attack.
Could you secure the funds you need to pay off your medical expenses? If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack, speak with the skilled attorneys at Zagoria Neely Injury Attorneys to understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. To book an appointment, contact us.
