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In Snellville, many households cherish dogs as beloved pets. However, dog ownership in our community comes with significant responsibilities controlling these animals. As part of Gwinnett County, Snellville follows the County Ordinance Section 10-71, which clearly outlines the obligations of dog owners. This local law prohibits dogs from roaming freely and mandates leash use or direct control when off the owner’s property.
Unfortunately, not all Snellville dog owners adhere to these crucial regulations leading to serious incidents where both children and adults suffer injuries from dog bites. If you have been affected by such an incident in Snellville, it’s essential to know that a dog bite lawyer from Griffin Law Firm is here to provide the legal support you need to help you recover and move forward.
Dog Owner Responsibilities in Snellville
Snellville imposes several key responsibilities on dog owners within city limits. While pet care and training decisions may seem personal, local laws require owners to maintain control over their dogs at all times. This often necessitates proper training and consistent use of leashes in public spaces around Snellville. Moreover, dogs can be legally classified as vicious or dangerous if they display aggressive behavior or attack others within the city. Snellville dog owners can be held liable if they knew or should have reasonably known about their dog’s propensity for aggression and failed to take appropriate precautions.
Recent updates to local ordinances have expanded liability beyond just vicious dogs to cover any owned animal that attacks a person in Snellville. However, dogs remain the most common source of bite-related injuries in our community. The law now also extends responsibility to individuals who are temporarily caring for an animal within Snellville, not just the official owners. Careless management, like failing to use a leash in Snellville’s public areas is another critical factor in determining liability.
Snellville residents need to note that you don’t necessarily have to be bitten to have a valid claim. If a dog causes harm in other ways, like knocking you over in a Snellville Park and causing a broken bone or head injury, you may still have grounds for a dog bite claim. However, provocation is a key consideration in these cases. If it is determined that you provoked the dog, leading to your injury, this could serve as a defense for the dog owner in Snellville courts.
What to Do If a Dog Bites You in Snellville
In the event of a dog bite in Snellville, immediate action is crucial. Dog bites can result in severe injuries. Prompt medical attention at a Snellville healthcare facility is essential not only for proper healing but also to minimize the risk of infection.
Once you’re safely away from the dog, apply gentle pressure to the wound. This allows for some bleeding, which can help flush out bacteria naturally. However, if bleeding is profuse despite pressure, seek emergency medical care immediately at the nearest Snellville urgent care facility.
Clean the wound thoroughly with mild soap and water if the bleeding is manageable. Apply pressure with a clean cloth to slow bleeding, then use antibiotic cream and cover the injury with a sterile bandage.
Even if the injury seems minor, seeing a physician within a few hours of the bite is crucial. This could be your family doctor in Snellville or an urgent care clinic.
After receiving medical care, your next step should be to contact a Snellville dog bite injury lawyer.
When someone else’s dog causes you harm within Snellville city limits, the owner may be liable for your injuries. You may be entitled to compensation under Snellville’s local ordinances, but determining the likelihood and potential amount can be challenging without experienced legal guidance familiar with Snellville’s specific legal landscape.
Dog Bite Injuries in Snellville
Dog attacks in Snellville can result in a wide range of injuries, including:
- Puncture wounds
- Tears in skin, muscles, tendons, and ligaments
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Bone fractures
- Nerve damage
- Fall-related injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Infections
Severe cases may lead to long-term scarring, disfigurement, or physical limitations that can significantly impact a Snellville resident’s quality of life. At Griffin Law Firm, P.C., our experienced Snellville dog bite attorneys have handled cases involving all types of dog-related injuries within the Snellville area.
Monetary Damages for Your Injuries in Snellville
Following a dog bite incident in Snellville, you may face significant financial losses. While the dog itself can’t compensate you, the owner is financially responsible under Snellville’s local laws. You can pursue damages from the owner and their insurance policies. Medical bills from Snellville healthcare providers often constitute the largest portion of a dog bite lawsuit, even for seemingly minor injuries, due to the risk of disease transmission. Other recoverable damages for Snellville residents may include:
- Lost wages from Snellville employers
- Property damage to personal items
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Scarring or disfigurement
The specific damages you’re eligible for will depend on your individual losses and injuries as a Snellville resident. Some victims may suffer ongoing trauma or impairment that affects their daily life in Snellville. A skilled dog bite lawyer from Griffin Law Firm can thoroughly review your case to identify all potential areas of compensation under Snellville’s local regulations.
Why Choose Griffin Law Firm for Your Snellville Dog Bite Case
We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a dog bite can take on victims and their families in Snellville. Our experienced legal team is committed to helping you obtain fair compensation for your losses.
Lead attorney Richard Griffin brings a wealth of experience and accolades to your Snellville case.
His AV Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the highest rating for legal skills and ethics, speaks to his exceptional abilities. This prestigious rating, awarded to only about 2% of U.S. attorneys, has been bestowed upon Attorney Griffin every year since 2012.
Choose Our Team in Snellville
Contact Griffin Law Firm, P.C. today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you secure the compensation you deserve under Snellville’s local ordinances. Our office, conveniently located to serve Snellville residents, is ready to provide the expert legal guidance you need in this challenging time. Let us put our deep understanding of Snellville’s legal system and our proven track record of success to work for you.
