While dogs are often regarded as “man’s best friend,” it’s imperative to acknowledge their potential to inflict serious injuries. Unfortunately, the majority of dog bites that puncture the skin necessitate medical intervention, which can result in substantial out-of-pocket expenses. More severe dog attacks can leave victims requiring surgery and lead to permanent psychological harm. If you or a loved one is the victim of a dog bite, it’s in your best interest to contact a compassionate Chesterfield Dog Bite Lawyer who can help you fight for the just compensation you deserve.
What Are the Dog Bite Laws in South Carolina?
If you have been seriously injured from a dog bite, understanding your legal rights is crucial. There are numerous laws in place that determine liability for dog attacks.
Under South Carolina law, dog owners are held strictly liable for dog bites and attacks committed by their canines. In some states, dog owners whose companion commits a first bite may be given somewhat of a free pass due to “first bite” laws. However, South Carolina is not one of those states. The only exceptions to this law are if the dog was a trained law enforcement dog on duty and was conducting its official duty, and the dog was not provoked or harassed. Therefore, if the dog owner can prove that you were teasing the dog in any way, such as trespassing, the dog owner may not be liable for any damages.
It’s also important to note that in some states, injured parties must prove that the dog in question had a “vicious propensity” and that the dog owner should have known the dog would have attacked and failed to prevent it. This is not the case in South Carolina. This means a dog owner can be held liable even if they behaved responsibly and had no reason to believe their dog would bite. As the injured party, you don’t need to prove that the dog was known to be dangerous.
What Damages Can Victims Seek?
Generally, if an unprovoked dog attacked and injured you, it’s possible to seek compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and any property that may have been damaged during the incident. Alongside your economic damages, you can seek funds for your pain and suffering, mental anguish, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other emotional losses. Sadly, many victims develop a fear of dogs.
If you can fulfill the burden of proof, meaning you can demonstrate the dog owner was responsible for your injuries, you may be entitled to significant compensation for the damages you have wrongfully incurred.
If an unproved dog has injured you, please don’t hesitate to contact the Cockrell Law Firm, P.C. today to schedule your initial consultation with our dedicated legal team. We are prepared to help you fight for the justice you deserve.
