A dog bite is a traumatic event that can leave lasting physical and emotional scars. Beyond the immediate pain and injury, there is the potential for medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing emotional distress.
If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite or animal attack, you have legal rights. Our Allendale personal injury lawyers with Marc Brown Law Firm can help you through these difficult times. Call to request a free consultation with a reputable Allendale dog bite lawyer today and find out how much your case could be worth.
Understanding South Carolina’s Strict Liability Dog Bite Laws
A minor dog attack can leave you with significant harm, leading to emergency room visits, stitches, and potential infections. Severe attacks may cause hospitalization, surgery, lost wages, and lasting physical and emotional trauma. Tragically, some dog bite injuries can be fatal.
Fortunately, South Carolina law, S.C. Ann. 47-3-110, protects dog bite victims through a “strict liability” provision. The dog owner is held responsible for any injuries or damages their dog causes, regardless of their knowledge of the dog’s previous behavior or if it was the first instance of aggression. As a result, victims may be entitled to compensation for a wide range of damages, including:
Medical Expenses
Covers all costs related to the attack, from emergency care and hospitalization to surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and future medical needs. An experienced dog bite lawyer in Allendale can help you navigate these complexities, such as when a slip and fall accident occurs during a dog attack or bite.
Lost Wages or Reduced Earning Capacity
You can get reimbursement for income lost due to the injury, both in the immediate aftermath and for any future limitations on your ability to work. Additional compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the attack, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), may also be awarded.
Pain and Suffering
You may be entitled to additional compensation if the bite caused permanent scarring or disfigurement. The intangible costs of emotional distress, physical pain, and other losses directly related to the dog bite should all be considered accordingly.
How Marc Brown Law Firm Can Help
Suing someone after a dog bite, especially if you know them, can be difficult. However, it is important to remember that compensation comes from the homeowner’s insurance, not their pocket. This means you can get the financial help you need without burdening them. However, compensation is only available for unprovoked attacks.
If you need more clarification about your options, consult your dog bite attorney in Allendale to understand your rights and make informed decisions. Marc Brown Law Firm will:
- Thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the bite, gather evidence such as medical records, witness statements, and photos, and build a strong case on your behalf
- Identify the responsible parties and ensure they are accountable for your injuries
- Work with medical professionals and financial experts to accurately assess the full extent of your current and future losses
- Negotiate with the dog owner’s insurance company to secure a fair settlement that covers all your damages
- We are prepared to litigate if necessary, and if a fair settlement cannot be reached, we’re ready to take your case to court and fight for your rights before a judge and jury
Contact Allendale’s Top-Rated Dog Bite Law Firm Before Time Runs Out
In South Carolina, you generally have three years from the date of the attack under S.C. Ann. § 15-3-530 to file a lawsuit. Do not let this deadline pass. You can discuss your case with your experienced Allendale dog bite attorney, get your questions answered, and gain insight into your legal options.
We are committed to helping you get the justice and compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing and moving forward. Contact Marc Brown Law Firm for a free, no-obligation consultation. You can reach us by phone or through our online contact form to get started on your case today.