Dog Bites

Dog Bites Result in Serious Injuries

Dogs are more threatened by a person at their level. This means children are the predominant victims of dog bites, frequently suffering lacerations or deep wounds to their head, face and hands. Serious bites on the hand, arms or feet are also common when a dog attacks or chases a victim.

If a child (or adult) is bitten on the face, it commonly results in facial scarring. Scars heal in stages and may require several reconstructive surgeries. Injuries to children often require psychological counseling as well to overcome the trauma of the attack, lower self-esteem, and a fear of dogs. They may have nightmares as well, also increased anxiety, and even a fear of leaving the house. These effects can be felt by adults as well as children.

Dog Bites In South Carolina

South Carolina is considered a “strict liability” state when it comes to dog bites and attacks. Any owner whose dog attacks someone, even if it is the first time their dog has bitten someone, is considered liable and responsible for injuries or trauma resulting from the attack.This is the case even if the owner believed the dog was not prone to biting or attacking. In some cases the owner may try to prove “comparative negligence” on the part of the injured. This means they could try to show that you, the victim, in some way instigated the incident by provoking the animal or unlawfully trespassing on their property. This is where we come in. We will help you recount the details of the incident and prove that you deserve compensation for your pain and suffering.

Reasons To Hire An Attorney For A Dog Bite Case

Hesitation because of Connection to owner- You may feel hesitation to pursue compensation if you are familiar with the owner of the dog. A dog bite can have lasting effects both financially and emotionally that you should take seriously. Most responsible parties will likely go through their insurance, and so you will be seeking compensation from the insurance company and not your friend, family or neighbor.

Knowledge of South Carolina laws and ordinances- South Carolina has its own unique set of laws concerning dog bites. It can be difficult to navigate the different rules and regulations and how they pertain to your injury case. Our attorneys have extensive experience with dog bite cases and will fight for the compensation you deserve.

Negotiations with insurance company- An insurance company is going to want to settle as quickly as possible and offer an amount that may not cover all of the long-term costs. Taking a quick settlement could mean you will not be covered if you have future medical expenses or are impacted emotionally in the future from the trauma experienced.

Proving fault- We will help you prove the attack you incurred was at no fault of your own and that the owner of the dog and their insurance company is responsible for compensation for your injuries.

Collecting The Highest Amount You Deserve

In representing personal injury victims in South Carolina, we seek full compensation for medical expense claims incurred and anticipated in the future, including future surgeries in addition to lost wages or other damages of permanent scarring, pain and suffering. Contact our SC dog bite lawyers today for a free initial consultation, including evenings or weekends by appointment.