Advocating for Dog Bite Victims Near You
Dog bites can result in severe physical and emotional trauma, and navigating the legal complexities surrounding dog bite incidents requires expertise and dedication. As your Florence, SC, injury lawyers, we understand the nuances of South Carolina’s dog bite laws and are committed to protecting your rights. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process, ensuring you receive the compensation you are owed. If a dog attack has injured you or a loved one, Contact a Florence Dog Bite Lawyer today for a free case evaluation.We’re Here to Help
Learn How South Carolina Dog Attack Attorneys Can Support You with Your Dog Bite Case
In South Carolina, dog bite laws are primarily governed by the state’s statutes and common law principles. Understanding these laws is essential when pursuing legal action after a dog bite incident. South Carolina follows a strict liability rule for dog bite cases, imposing responsibility on the owner for the actions of their dog, regardless of the dog’s prior behavior or the owner’s knowledge of aggression.
Under South Carolina law, dog bite liability is established when a dog injures a person by biting or attacking them. This liability extends to the dog’s owner, as well as any person having the dog in their care or custody. Unlike some states that operate on a “one-bite rule,” South Carolina’s strict liability means that the owner is responsible for the dog’s actions even if the dog had no history of aggressive behavior. Dog owners in South Carolina are legally obligated to take reasonable precautions to prevent their dogs from causing harm. This includes keeping the dog under control, using proper restraints such as leashes, and ensuring the safety of others around the dog. Owners can be held liable in South Carolina if their negligence contributes to a dog bite incident. Additionally, if a dog is known to have aggressive tendencies, the owner may be held accountable for failing to warn others or take appropriate measures to prevent an attack.
Understanding these aspects of South Carolina’s dog bite laws is essential for both dog owners and victims seeking legal recourse. If you’ve been injured in a dog bite incident near Florence, it’s important to consult with an experienced Florence dog bite injury attorney to navigate the legal landscape and pursue the compensation you are owed.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bite injuries can vary in severity, ranging from minor cuts and bruises to more serious and even life-threatening injuries. Common dog bite injuries include:
- Puncture Wounds: Dogs have sharp teeth that can cause puncture wounds, which may lead to infection if not treated promptly.
- Lacerations: Deep cuts or lacerations can occur during a dog bite, often requiring stitches or other medical interventions.
- Scarring and Disfigurement: Serious dog bites may leave permanent scars or disfigurement, especially if the victim requires surgery or other medical procedures.
- Emotional Trauma: Beyond physical injuries, dog bites can cause emotional trauma, including anxiety, fear, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), particularly in children.
- Bruises and Contusions: Blunt force trauma from a dog bite can result in bruises and contusions, causing pain and swelling.
- Broken Bones: The force of a dog bite can cause fractures, particularly in smaller bones like fingers, hands, or wrists.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments may occur, leading to pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
- Nerve Damage: Severe bites can cause damage to nerves, potentially resulting in long-term complications such as numbness or weakness.
- Infection: Dog bites can introduce bacteria into the wound, increasing the risk of infection. Common infections include cellulitis and, in more severe cases, sepsis.
- Rabies Exposure: While relatively rare, dog bites can potentially expose victims to rabies if the dog is not vaccinated. Prompt medical attention is essential to assess and address this risk.
It’s critical for individuals who have experienced a dog bite injury to seek immediate medical attention. Even seemingly minor injuries can result in complications, including infections and scarring or disfigurement.
Contact A Dog Bite Attorney Near Florence, South Carolina
The Lovely Law Firm Injury Lawyers
601 W Evans St #200, Florence, SC 29501
Contact us now at (843)-281-7205
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (Monday – Sunday)
Dog Bite Lawsuit Liability
In dog bite cases, establishing liability is a key factor in determining whether the dog owner is legally responsible for the injuries sustained. In Florence and throughout South Carolina, the state’s strict liability rule simplifies this process by placing responsibility on the owner for their dog’s actions. This means that, in general, if a dog bites or attacks someone, the owner is liable for resulting injuries, regardless of the dog’s history or the owner’s awareness of its aggressive tendencies.
The Florence Code of Ordinances enforces specific regulations for animal care and control to ensure public safety and prevent dog attacks. The Florence Animal Shelter provides essential resources and collaborates with local authorities to manage and address incidents involving animals and promoting community safety.
Factors Influencing Dog Bite Liability in South Carolina
While strict liability is a foundational principle, there are still factors that can influence liability in dog bite cases. One critical factor is whether the injured person was lawfully on the premises where the dog bite incident occurred. If a person is trespassing or engaging in unlawful activities on the owner’s property, it may affect the owner’s liability.
Another factor is the victim’s behavior at the time of the incident. If the victim provoked the dog or engaged in actions that contributed to the attack, it could impact the determination of liability. However, it is important to note that South Carolina’s strict liability rule generally places a higher burden on the owner to prevent such incidents.
Comparative Negligence in South Carolina
South Carolina follows a comparative negligence system. This means that the courts will consider the actions and negligence of all parties involved when determining liability and damages. In Florence dog bite cases, this could come into play if the injured person’s actions contributed to the dog bite incident. Comparative negligence allows for a percentage reduction in damages based on the degree of fault assigned to each party.
It’s important to note that even if the injured person is found partially at fault, they may still be eligible to recover damages, but the amount awarded will be adjusted based on the assigned level of negligence.
Can You Sue For a Dog Attack Injury Near Florence, SC?
Yes, you can sue for a dog bite injury anywhere in South Carolina. The state’s strict liability rule places responsibility on the dog owner for injuries caused by their dog’s bite or attack. If you’ve been bitten or attacked by a dog in South Carolina, you are generally eligible to file a lawsuit against the dog owner to seek compensation for your injuries.
Damages You May Be Entitled To in a Dog Bite Case
Victims of dog bite injuries in and near Florence, South Carolina may be entitled to damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: Compensation for all medical costs associated with treating the injuries, including hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for the physical and emotional distress caused by the dog bite, including pain, anxiety, and trauma.
- Lost Wages: If the injuries result in the victim being unable to work, they may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and potential future earnings.
- Scarring and Disfigurement: Additional compensation for any permanent scarring or disfigurement resulting from the dog bite.
- Property Damage: In cases where personal property, such as clothing or accessories, is damaged during the incident, victims may seek compensation for these losses.
Statute of Limitations in South Carolina Dog Bite Cases
It’s important to be aware of the statute of limitations when considering filing a dog bite lawsuit in South Carolina. The statute of limitations sets a time limit within which a lawsuit must be filed. In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including dog bite injuries, is generally three years from the date of the incident. Failing to file a lawsuit within this timeframe may result in the loss of the right to seek compensation.
Prompt action is recommended to ensure that your case is filed within the statute of limitations. Consulting with a dog bite lawyer can help you understand your rights, gather necessary evidence, and initiate legal proceedings within the required timeframe.
Dog Bite Lawsuit FAQ
Can I Sue For A Dog Bite Near Florence, SC?
Yes, you can sue under South Carolina’s strict liability rule if you’ve been injured as a result of a dog biting or attacking you or a loved one.
What is the Penalty For a Dog Bite in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, there is no specific criminal penalty outlined for a dog bite incident in the state’s statutes. However, civil liability applies to dog owners under the state’s strict liability rule. This means that if a dog bites or attacks someone, the owner is generally responsible for the resulting injuries, and the injured party may file a civil lawsuit to seek compensation for damages. As a result, the penalties are typically in the form of financial compensation that the dog owner may be required to pay to cover medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages incurred by the victim.
*It’s important to note that if a dog has a history of aggressive behavior, there may be additional legal consequences for the owner, and authorities may take action to address the situation.
Do Most Dog Bite Cases Settle Outside of Court?
In most cases, dog bite lawsuits are settled outside of court. However, some do go to trial if settlement terms can not be agreed upon. This is one of many reasons why it is important to have a legal team on your side.
Do Doctors Have to Report A Dog Attack in South Carolina?
Dog bites in South Carolina must be reported pursuant to S.C. Code Sec. 47-5-90. The law also requires any physician who treats a victim of a dog bite to report the incident to the county health department.
Contact a Florence Dog Bite Lawyer
Contact The Lovely Law Firm, Florence Dog Bite Lawyers, Today. With decades of legal experience, we’ve secured substantial compensation for dog bite and negligence victims. Call us for a free consultation at 843-281-7205.
The Florence dog bite injury lawyers at the Lovely Law Firm are ready to assist you with your dog bite case. Contact us today to schedule your free case evaluation. Our team is here to help get you on the road to recovery. Contact a dog bite lawyer near Florence if you have been involved in a dog attack in nearby areas like Myrtle Beach or Columbia, South Carolina.
What our Dog Bite Claim Clients have to say on Google:
Great law firm. They helped me out tremendously when I needed them. I would recommend them to anyone who needed legal help! Also the dog is really cute.
Taylor G.
January 2020
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We’re proud of our team’s hard work, resulting in a 4.9 out of 5 rating on Google
