Who is liable if a dog bites me in Georgia?

1. Liability Standard

Georgia is a modified one-bite state. Under O.C.G.A. § 51-2-7, an owner is liable if (a) the dog had vicious or dangerous propensities; (b) the owner had knowledge of those propensities; OR (c) the owner permitted the dog to roam in violation of a leash law.

2. Statutory Elements

The plaintiff must prove scienter OR violation of a local leash ordinance, plus careless management or letting the dog go free, and resulting injury.

3. Common-Law "One-Bite" Doctrine

Scienter can be established through prior bites, growling, lunging, leash straining, or even keeping the dog as a guard dog. Georgia courts also recognize that a single prior incident can suffice.

4. Trespasser Defense

Trespassers face significant hurdles; the owner generally owes them only the duty not to willfully injure.

5. Provocation Defense

Provocation is a defense. Comparative fault applies.

6. Comparative Fault

Georgia's modified comparative-fault rule (O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33) bars recovery if plaintiff is 50% or more at fault.

7. Landlord Liability

A landlord can be liable if they had actual knowledge of the dog's vicious propensities and the legal ability to require the dog's removal.

8. Homeowner's Insurance

Georgia policies generally cover dog bites; breed exclusions are common.

9. Damages

Medical bills, lost wages, scarring, pain and suffering, and future surgeries. Punitive damages available with clear evidence of conscious indifference.

10. Criminal Liability

Under the Responsible Dog Owner Law (O.C.G.A. § 4-8-20 et seq.), owners of "dangerous" or "vicious" dogs face misdemeanor or felony charges for serious injuries or deaths.

This is legal information, not legal advice.