Can I file a claim if the dog has never bitten anyone before?

Yes. South Carolina’s strict liability law holds dog owners responsible for injuries their pets cause, even if the dog has never shown aggression before. Unlike some states that require proof of a history of attacks, South Carolina law does not give dog owners a free pass just because it’s the first time their pet has harmed someone.

What if a family member or friend's dog bit me?

You may still have a valid claim, and in most cases, homeowner’s or renter’s insurance will cover the damages. Many people worry about filing a claim against a loved one, but compensation typically comes from the insurance company, not the dog owner personally. This allows you to recover medical costs and other losses without creating financial hardship for your friend or relative.

How long will it take to get compensation for a dog bite?

The timeline varies depending on the severity of injuries, the cooperation of the insurance company, and whether a settlement is reached, or a lawsuit is necessary. Some cases are resolved within a few months, while others take longer if insurers delay negotiations or if a trial is required. An attorney can help speed up the process by handling paperwork, negotiations, and legal filings efficiently.

Will my case go to court?

Most dog bite cases settle through negotiations with the insurance company. However, if the insurer refuses to offer fair compensation, filing a lawsuit may be the best option. Our team prepares every case thoroughly, so if going to trial becomes necessary, we will be ready to present a strong argument on your behalf.

Dog Bite Lawyer

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A dog attack is a traumatic event that leaves lasting physical and emotional scars. When an aggressive dog bites, the injuries can be severe. Victims often require extensive medical treatment, time away from work, and long-term care. Even a small dog can cause serious injuries and lead to complications if not properly treated.

Whether you or a loved one suffered a bite while walking in Hampton Park, Ackerman Park, or in your own neighborhood, you shouldn’t have to bear the burden of someone else’s negligence. A Charleston dog bite lawyer from Joye Law Firm understands the pain and frustration of dealing with a dog bite injury.

We know that medical bills pile up, daily activities become harder, and the emotional toll of the attack lingers. No one should have to go through this alone. One of our outstanding personal injury attorneys can help hold the responsible party accountable and fight for the compensation you deserve.

We’ve helped injury victims across South Carolina since 1968-always working diligently to secure favorable results. If you or your child suffered a dog bite, contact us for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.

Understanding Dog Bite Laws in South Carolina

South Carolina holds dog owners legally responsible when their animals bite or attack someone. State law operates under a strict liability standard, meaning the owner is responsible even if the dog has never shown aggression before. Unlike some states, South Carolina does not require proof that the owner knew the dog was dangerous.

When Dog Owners Are Liable for Injuries

A dog owner is responsible when their pet bites someone in a public place or when the victim is lawfully on private property. This includes parks, sidewalks, stores, and even the victim or pet owner’s home. Landlords and property owners may also share liability in certain situations, especially if they knew a dangerous dog lived on their property and failed to act.

Exceptions and Special Circumstances

There are limited situations where a dog owner may not be held responsible. If someone provokes the dog, such as by hitting or teasing it, the owner may argue that the victim’s actions led to the attack. Additionally, if a person is trespassing on private property when bitten, the owner may not be liable. This typically does not apply to children or incapacitated adults.

Statute of Limitations for Filing Dog Bite Claims

Victims must act quickly to protect their legal rights. South Carolina typically allows three years from the date of the bite to file a claim. However, this timeline can vary. Waiting too long can result in losing the ability to seek compensation. Speaking with an attorney as soon as possible can help protect your rights and ensure your lawyer can collect and preserve vital evidence.

Common Types of Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bites range from minor scratches to severe, life-altering wounds. Even small bites carry a risk of infection, while more serious attacks can cause permanent damage.

Physical Injuries

A dog’s teeth can puncture deep into the skin, leading to lacerations, nerve damage, and broken bones. In severe cases, victims require surgery to repair torn ligaments and reconstruct tissue. Children are especially vulnerable to bites on the face and neck, which can cause lasting harm. Even friendly dogs can cause injury, as animals can cause trip-and-fall accidents and other physical injuries.

Infections and Disease Risks

Bacteria from a dog’s mouth can enter the bloodstream, leading to serious infections like cellulitis, sepsis, or rabies. Without proper treatment, infections can spread quickly and cause long-term complications.

Psychological Trauma and PTSD

The emotional impact of a dog attack is just as serious as the physical wounds. Many victims, especially children, develop a fear of dogs, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after an attack. Therapy and counseling are often necessary to heal from the emotional trauma.

Scarring and Disfigurement

Dog bites frequently leave permanent scars, particularly on visible areas like the face, arms, and legs. These scars may require reconstructive surgery or skin grafts, and they can affect a person’s self-esteem and confidence.

Compensation Available for Dog Bite Victims

When someone else’s dog causes you or your loved one serious harm, you deserve compensation for the losses you suffered. Our attorneys can help you obtain compensation for:

Medical Expenses: Covers emergency care, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and future medical treatments related to the injury.
Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: A serious bite may prevent you from working temporarily or permanently. Your lawyer can factor lost wages and reduced earning potential into your settlement. Likewise, you may obtain compensation for the income you lost due to having to care for your injured child.
Pain and Suffering: The physical pain and emotional distress from a dog attack deserve recognition. This covers the non-economic damagesassociated with the injury, including physical pain, emotional distress, and impact on your quality of life. Pain and suffering damages are based on the severity of your injuries and long-term effects on daily life and well-being.
Punitive Damages:If a known dangerous animal, either registered or identified as such, was permitted to roam freely, we can work toward obtaining punitive damages for you as additional compensation.
Rehabilitation Costs: Physical therapy, counseling, and reconstructive surgeries are often necessary to recover from a severe attack. Your attorney should include these costs in your claim.

How Our Charleston Dog Bite Attorneys Can Help

Due to our unrelenting commitment to our clients, the legal team at Joye Law Firm provides support at every stage of the legal process. Here’s a general overview of what to expect:

Free Initial Consultation

We offer free consultations to review your case and answer your questions. There’s no obligation to hire us. If you choose to hire us, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you.

Investigation of the Incident

Strong evidence means a strong claim. We investigate every case fully by obtaining witness statements, medical records, police reports, and anything else we need to support your case. We also have access to medical experts and other professionals who can provide compelling testimony as to the severity of your injuries and other important information to support your claim.

Dealing With Insurance Companies

Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts. They may even try to blame you or your loved one for the attack. Our attorneys handle all negotiations to ensure you receive fair compensation. We’ll also push back hard on attempts to place undue blame on you or your child.

Negotiating Settlements

Most cases settle out of court, but we don’t accept unfair offers. If an insurance company refuses to negotiate fairly, we’re ready to take legal action. We prepare every case thoroughly from the start to show the insurance company we mean business.

Litigation if Necessary

When insurers refuse to take responsibility and won’t offer a fair settlement, we fight for our clients in court. Our attorneys know how to build compelling cases and arguments. We have a strong track record of securing favorable verdicts for clients.

Common Defenses in Dog Bite Cases

Dog owners and their insurers may try to avoid liability using several defenses.

Trespassing: Owners argue that a victim was unlawfully on their property when attacked. However, being in a public space or invited onto private property negates this defense.
Provocation: Some claim the victim provoked the dog by teasing, hitting, or startling it. Our team reviews evidence to challenge these accusations.
Assumption of Risk: This defense suggests the victim knew the dog was dangerous and willingly took the risk of being bitten. We present evidence to dispute this claim and establish owner responsibility.

By preparing a strong case backed by evidence, legal arguments, and expert testimony, we effectively counter these defenses and work to hold negligent dog owners accountable.