What to do after a dog bite?
A dog bite can upend your life in seconds. One moment you are minding your own business, the next you are dealing with pain, medical bills, and worries about infection or scarring. I am Norm Sawyer, and I have spent more than twenty years helping injury victims across Georgia. Here is my plain-language guide to protecting your health, your rights, and your future after a dog attack.
1. Put Your Health First
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Stop the bleeding and clean the wound. Rinse with soap and water for at least fifteen minutes, then bandage it.
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See a doctor the same day. Even a small puncture can get infected. You may also need a tetanus booster or rabies shots if the dog’s vaccination status is unclear.
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Follow every medical instruction. Keep copies of bills, discharge papers, prescriptions, and photos of your injuries. Those records become the backbone of your claim.
2. Gather the Facts While They Are Fresh
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Get the dog owner’s name, address, and insurance information.
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Take clear photos of your injuries, torn clothing, and the scene.
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Ask witnesses for statements and contact details.
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File a report with animal control or the police. An official report strengthens your case and helps the community track dangerous animals.
3. How Georgia Handles Dog Bite Liability
Georgia does not use strict liability for dog bites. To win your case we must show two things:
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The owner knew, or should have known, the dog had a dangerous side or violated a local leash law.
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The owner’s carelessness allowed the bite to happen.
Proving that knowledge may come from past bite reports, prior aggression, or leash-law violations. My team digs into vet records, animal control files, and neighborhood statements to uncover the truth.
4. Losses You Can Recover
A successful dog bite claim can cover:
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Emergency care, surgery, and future medical treatment
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Physical therapy and counseling for trauma or anxiety
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Lost wages or reduced earning power
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Scarring, disfigurement, pain, and emotional distress
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Damaged property such as torn clothing or broken glasses
5. Why You Should Call Sawyer Injury Law Early
Evidence fades fast. Surveillance video is erased. Wounds heal. Memories blur. When you hire us right away, we:
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Send preservation letters to lock down video and vet records
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Handle every insurer call so you can focus on recovery
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Work with medical experts to detail future care costs
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Push for full compensation in negotiation or at trial
My firm is bilingual in English and Portuguese and proudly serves Georgia’s diverse communities.
6. Take the Next Step
If a dog bite has turned your life upside down, call Sawyer Injury Law at 404-777-7890 for a free consultation. I will explain your rights, answer your questions, and map out a plan to get the compensation you deserve.
This article is for information only and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is unique; consult a lawyer about your specific situation.
