Dogs are said to be man’s best friend, but even typically well-behaved dogs can do serious damage if they attack. If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite injury in the Upstate of South Carolina, you know firsthand the physical, emotional, and financial toll it can take.
Dog bites can lead to severe injuries, disfigurement, psychological trauma, and costly medical bills. If the dog that attacked you belonged to someone else, you likely have the right to obtain compensation for your injuries and losses from the owner.
At Joye Law Firm, our compassionate Clinton dog bite attorneys understand the profound impact a dog attack can have on your life.
We recognize the physical suffering, emotional turmoil, and the financial strain you may be going through.
You don’t have to face this difficult situation alone. Our dedicated legal team is here to provide the support, guidance, and aggressive representation you need during this stressful and traumatic time.
Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you and your family hold the dog owner accountable and recover the financial compensation you deserve. We’ve helped many animal attack victims recover the damages they are owed, including these recent cases:
Dog Bite Laws in South Carolina
South Carolina law holds dog owners strictly liable for injuries their pets cause (SC Code § 47-3-110). This means that even if the owner had no prior knowledge of their dog’s aggressive tendencies, they can still be held responsible for damages resulting from a bite or attack.
Some limited exceptions apply to this strict liability rule. For example, if the injured person provoked the dog or illegally entered the owner’s property, the owner might not face liability. Additionally, South Carolina’s dog bite law does not apply to trained police or military dogs acting under the guidance of their handlers.
Additionally, South Carolina has restrictions and requirements for owners of dangerous dogs. Owners who know their pet is vicious or prone to attack must keep it confined to their property and not let it wander off the premises unless safely restrained. They can face civil legal consequences and criminal penalties for failing to properly secure a known dangerous animal.
Unlike some other states, South Carolina does not follow a “one bite rule” when determining liability. Even if a dog has no history of aggression or biting, the owner may bear liability for the first bite incident.
In Clea v. Odom, 714 S.E.2d 542, 394 S.C. 175 (2011), the Supreme Court of South Carolina held that third parties could be liable for some dog bites. The court ruled that a landlord could be held liable for dog bite injuries inflicted upon invitees or licensees when attacks occur in common areas of apartment complexes. The Residential Landlord Tenant Act specifies that a landlord has an obligation to keep common areas in a reasonably safe condition.
A dog bite lawyer from Joye Law Firm can help you understand the laws surrounding dog bites in South Carolina and how they apply to your specific case. We can advise you on the best course of action and help you make informed decisions throughout the legal process.
The Importance of Hiring a Dog Bite Lawyer
Don’t try to navigate the complex and overwhelming legal system. You’re already dealing with physical and emotional injuries. Call our Upstate dog bite attorneys instead.
Many people are unaware that compensation for a dog bite claim often comes from the dog owner’s homeowners’ insurance. According to the Insurance Information Institute, more than one-third of all homeowners’ insurance liability claims paid out annually are due to dog bites.
If you or your child has been bitten by a neighbor’s, relative’s, or friend’s dog, don’t let your relationship prevent you from seeking compensation through their insurance policy. This situation is exactly what policies are designed to cover.
Insurance companies and the animal’s owner may try to downplay the severity of your injuries or shift blame to avoid paying the compensation you rightfully deserve. This is why hiring an experienced dog bite lawyer is so important.
A skilled personal injury attorney can handle all aspects of your case, allowing you to concentrate on healing and moving forward with your life.
They can:
- Investigate the incident: Your lawyer will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case to demonstrate the dog owner’s liability and the extent of your damages.
- Navigate the legal system: Dog bite laws can be complex, and legal proceedings can be confusing. Your attorney will guide you through the process, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way.
- Handle insurance companies: Insurance adjusters often try to settle claims quickly and for as little money as possible. Your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. They will fight for a fair settlement that adequately compensates you for your injuries and losses.
- Advocate for your rights: If the owner or their home owner’s insurance provider won’t offer a fair settlement, your attorney will be prepared to take your case to trial and argue for your rights in court.
- File a workers’ comp claim: Unfortunately, many dog bite victims are delivery people, utility workers, sanitation workers, or people who work at other people’s homes or in public areas. If the bite occurred while a person is working, they may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits in addition to compensation from the dog owner.
At Joye Law Firm, our Clinton dog bite lawyers have extensive knowledge in handling these complex cases. We understand all you’re going through, and we’re committed to providing compassionate, personalized representation tailored to your unique needs. With our skilled legal team on your side, you can focus on your recovery while we work diligently to pursue compensation for you.
Dog bites can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe lacerations, fractures, and even fatalities.
At Joye Law Firm, our 
