A dog attack can leave lasting scars both physical and emotional. In just moments, a neighbor’s pet or an unleashed animal can cause serious injury, medical bills, and fear that lingers for years. You shouldn’t have to face that trauma, or the costs alone.
At Ted Law Firm, our Augusta dog bite lawyers help victims and families recover after serious animal attacks. We hold negligent dog owners accountable under Georgia law and fight for the compensation you deserve for your injuries, treatment, and peace of mind.
Local Representation for Augusta Victims
Augusta’s parks, trails, and neighborhoods make it a wonderful place for families and pets but also a city where dog bites frequently occur. According to the Georgia Department of Public Health, Richmond County reports hundreds of dog bite incidents each year, many involving children or delivery workers.
We’ve represented victims injured in:
- Pendleton King Park and Lake Olmstead Trail.
- Broad Street and Downtown Augusta neighborhoods.
- Subdivisions in Evans, Martinez, and Hephzibah.
- School zones and apartment complexes where owners failed to control their pets.
Whether you were bitten at a home, public park, or on the job, Ted Law Firm is here to protect your rights.
Georgia Dog Bite Data (Richmond County – DPH)
| Year | Reported Bites | Hospitalizations | Fatalities |
| 2018 | 312 | 26 | 0 |
| 2019 | 345 | 28 | 1 |
| 2020 | 374 | 31 | 0 |
| 2021 | 401 | 33 | 1 |
| 2022 | 416 | 36 | 0 |
| Total | 1,848 | 154 | 2 |
Each case represents a preventable attack. At Ted Law Firm, we make sure victims receive the justice and compensation they deserve — while working to make Augusta safer for everyone.
Georgia’s Dog Bite Law
Georgia’s dog bite statute, O.C.G.A. § 51-2-7, establishes owner liability when an animal injures someone through negligence or violation of leash laws.
Key Rules Under Georgia Law:
- Modified Strict Liability: Owners are responsible if they knew or should have known their dog was dangerous, or if the dog was off-leash in violation of local ordinances.
- Leash Law Violations: Augusta enforces a citywide leash ordinance requiring dogs to be restrained in public spaces.
- Provocation and Trespass: Victims who were lawfully present and did not provoke the animal are entitled to recover damages.
“If a dog was roaming off-leash, the owner is automatically considered negligent, and we’ll make sure they’re held accountable.”
Who Pays After a Dog Bite in Georgia?
Dog bite compensation often comes from insurance coverage, not the individual’s pocket.
| Responsible Party | Coverage Type | Example |
| Dog Owner | Homeowners or renters insurance | Bite in a neighbor’s yard or home |
| Landlord / Property Owner | Liability policy | Tenant’s dog injures a visitor |
| Business Owner | Commercial insurance | Dog attack at a pet store, restaurant, or workplace |
| Uninsured Owner | Personal assets / court judgment | Recovery through litigation |
We identify all available policies to ensure every source of compensation is pursued.
Common Causes of Dog Attacks
Dog bites happen for many reasons, but nearly all stem from owner negligence. Common causes include:
- Dogs roaming off-leash in violation of city code.
- Owners ignoring prior aggression or bite history.
- Poorly fenced yards or unsecured gates.
- Inadequate training or supervision.
- Attacks during deliveries or home visits.
- Aggressive breeds allowed around children.
Our investigation includes animal control reports, witness statements, and veterinary records to prove fault and strengthen your case.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog attacks can cause long-term physical and emotional harm. Our attorneys represent victims suffering from:
- Whiplash and soft tissue damage
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Emotional trauma and post-accident anxiety
- Wrongful death in fatal crashes
We work closely with local hospitals AU Health, Doctors Hospital of Augusta, and University Hospital to ensure every injury is documented and treated properly.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Victims of dog attacks may be entitled to recover damages for:
- Medical treatment and future care.
- Lost wages and reduced earning potential.
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
- Plastic surgery and scar revision.
- Permanent disability or disfigurement.
- Property damage (clothing, glasses, etc.).
- Wrongful death compensation for families.
At Ted Law Firm, we don’t settle for lowball offers — we fight for full compensation for your recovery and peace of mind.
What To Do After a Dog Bite in Augusta
- Call 911 and seek immediate medical attention.
- Report the attack to Augusta Animal Services or Richmond County Sheriff’s Office.
- Identify the dog and owner — take photos and collect contact information.
- Document your injuries with photos and medical records.
- Do not speak to insurance adjusters without legal representation.
- Contact Ted Law Firm — we’ll handle everything from investigation to negotiation.
Understanding Fault in Georgia
Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule (the 50% rule):
- You can recover damages as long as you’re less than 50% responsible.
- Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
We ensure insurers don’t misuse this rule to reduce your rightful compensation.
Punitive Damages for Reckless Owners
In cases involving repeated attacks or gross negligence, Georgia law allows punitive damages under O.C.G.A. § 51-12-5.1 — additional compensation designed to punish reckless owners.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Acting fast after a dog bite helps us:
- Preserve animal control and police records.
- Secure witness statements before details fade.
- Collect insurance and medical documentation.
- File your claim before Georgia’s two-year statute of limitations (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33) expires.
The sooner we start, the stronger your case becomes.
Why Choose Ted Law Firm
- Decades of experience handling Georgia personal injury and dog bite cases.
- Deep knowledge of Augusta’s local laws and court systems.
- Millions recovered for injured victims across Georgia.
- No fees unless we win — guaranteed.
- Available 24/7 for free consultations.
- Community commitment — fighting for the safety of Augusta families.
At Ted Law Firm, we protect the people of Augusta because no one should pay for someone else’s negligence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What if the dog has never bitten anyone before?
You can still recover compensation if the dog was off-leash or the owner broke Augusta’s leash laws.
2. Who pays for my medical bills after a dog bite?
Most cases are covered by the dog owner’s homeowners or renters insurance.
3. How long do I have to file a claim?
You have two years from the date of the attack under O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33.
4. Can I recover damages if I was partly at fault?
Yes, as long as you were less than 50% responsible.
5. What if the owner refuses to cooperate or doesn’t have insurance?
We can pursue claims directly through court or other responsible parties (landlords, property owners).
6. What if my child was bitten?
Parents can file claims on behalf of minors to recover for medical care, therapy, and emotional trauma.
7. What does it cost to hire Ted Law Firm?
You pay nothing upfront — we only get paid if we win your case.
Five Star Service
We pride ourselves on creating “wow” moments for our clients. That’s why Ted Law Firm has 5 star ratings, a client choice award from Avvo and and clients hire us again and again.
Free Rental Car Help
Many people who have been involved in a car accident don’t know how to navigate their insurance coverage. Our attorneys will review your insurance policy for free* and ensure you’re getting any rental car benefits you’re entitled to.
Next Generation Law Firm
Our firm uses 21st century technology and the latest law to maximize claim value, push your case forward quickly, and keep you informed every step of the way.
Pay Nothing Until We Get You $$$
FREE* Case Review. Immediate work. We even front the cost for ordering medical records, getting police reports, and conducting an investigation while we work up your claim.
30 Day Guarantee
We’ll help you for 30 days, through the roughest part of your wreck. We’re so confident in our client experience that we offer this: If you’re not completely satisfied, you won’t be charged a fee and you’ll be free to do as you please.
FREE Legal Resources
We have created a ton of free videos and guides to get you immediate help on your claim.
Talk to an Augusta Dog Bite Lawyer Today
If you or your loved one was attacked by a dog in Augusta, you deserve justice and compensation for your injuries. Let Ted Law Firm fight for your recovery and peace of mind. Serving Augusta, Evans, Martinez, Hephzibah, North Augusta, and the entire CSRA. No fees unless we win. No risk just results.
At Ted Law Firm, we stand up for Augusta’s families and neighbors ensuring every victim of negligence receives the justice they deserve.