How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in South Carolina?

South Carolina law typically allows victims three years from the date of the attack to file a lawsuit. Failing to file within this timeframe can prevent you from recovering compensation. Claims involving dog attacks on public property may have far shorter deadlines. An attorney can ensure all necessary paperwork is filed on time.

What if the dog never bit anyone before?

Under South Carolina's strict liability law, a dog owner is responsible for a bite regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression. Unlike states that follow a "one-bite rule," South Carolina holds owners accountable even if it was the first time their dog bit someone.

Who pays for my medical bills?

If the dog owner has homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, their policy may cover your medical expenses. In some cases, the owner may be personally responsible. An attorney can help identify all possible sources of compensation.

What if the dog owner is a friend or neighbor?

Many dog bite victims hesitate to take legal action when the owner is someone they know. However, most claims are paid through insurance, not out of pocket. Seeking compensation ensures your medical bills and other damages are covered without creating unnecessary financial strain for the owner.

How long will my dog bite case take?

The time it takes to resolve a case depends on factors like the severity of the injury, the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate, and whether a lawsuit is necessary. Some cases settle within months, while others take longer if litigation is required. While we always aim for a timely resolution, our priority is making sure you receive the full compensation you deserve—even if that means taking a bit more time because once your case is settled, there is no way to ask for additional compensation.

Greenville Dog Bite Lawyer | Joye Law Firm Injury Lawyers

On This page

Dog bites can have a profound effect on victims and their families. If you or your child has suffered from an animal attack, you may be dealing with physical injuries, emotional distress, and other hardships. On top of the pain and trauma, you have mounting medical expenses you weren’t prepared for, and you’ve had to miss work to get yourself or your injured child treatment.pa

You shouldn’t have to bear the financial burden of a dog bite injury, and you deserve to be fully compensated for all you’ve endured. An experienced Greenville dog bite lawyer from Joye Law Firm can inform you of your rights and options for seeking compensation at no cost. We’ve supported injured clients throughout South Carolina since 1968, earning the trust and respect of many good people in need.

You can count on us to hold the responsible party accountable and help you and your family obtain justice and closure. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling dog bite claims, and we promise to do all we can to help you obtain the maximum compensation possible. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.

Why You Need a Dog Bite Attorney

Navigating the aftermath of an animal attack involves understanding complex legal frameworks and dealing with various parties. Here’s why having a dedicated attorney is essential:

Understanding South Carolina Dog Bite Laws: South Carolina operates under a strict liability statute for dog bites, meaning owners are held responsible for their dog’s actions regardless of prior behavior.
Interacting with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. An attorney can advocate on your behalf to pursue fair compensation.
Collecting Evidence: Proper documentation of injuries and gathering supporting evidence are critical for building a strong case.
Assessing Claim Value: An experienced lawyer can evaluate the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering.
Considering Long-Term Effects: Some injuries have lasting impacts. Legal counsel ensures these are factored into your claim.

Where Do Dog Bites Occur in Greenville?

Dog bites commonly occur in Greenville neighborhoods and public spaces like:

Cleveland Park
Falls Park on the Reedy
The Swamp Rabbit Trail
Unity Park
McPherson Park
Local shopping centers and businesses

Many dog bites occur on private property. When this occurs, injured parties can usually hold the dog owner accountable and seek damages. Many homeowners’ insurance policies cover dog bites, but some don’t. An attorney can help determine the best course of action in your case.

South Carolina Dog Bite Laws

When pursuing a dog bite claim in South Carolina, you need to understand the state’s laws:

Strict Liability Statute: As mentioned, South Carolina law holds dog owners strictly liable if their dog bites or attacks someone in a public place or lawfully on private property. It does not matter whether the dog has ever bitten anyone before.
Responsibilities of Property Owners: Owners must ensure their animals are restrained and do not pose a threat to others. Failure to do so can result in liability for any injuries caused.
Local Greenville Ordinances: Greenville has specific regulations regarding leash laws and dog restraints. Dog owners should familiarize themselves with these laws to ensure compliance.
Potential Defenses by Dog Owners: Owners might claim the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing. An attorney can help counter these defenses effectively.

Our attorneys have a deep understanding of both SC’s dog bite laws as well as Greenville’s specific ordinances. We’ll use our knowledge to build a strong claim for you that holds the dog owner accountable.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bites can lead to a range of injuries, each requiring specific medical attention:

Physical Injuries: These include puncture wounds, lacerations, and fractures, which may necessitate immediate and ongoing medical treatment.
Infections and Complications: Dog bites can introduce bacteria, leading to infections that complicate recovery.
Scarring and Disfigurement: Bites, especially in visible areas, can result in permanent scars, affecting one’s appearance and self-esteem.
Psychological Trauma: The emotional impact of an attack can lead to anxiety, fear of dogs, and other psychological issues.
Long-Term Medical Considerations: Some injuries may require reconstructive surgery or ongoing therapy, impacting the victim’s quality of life.

No matter how serious your dog bite injuries, seek medical attention promptly. Then, contact our attorneys to discuss your options to seek compensation.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Greenville

First, clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water to prevent infection. Even if the bite seems minor, seek medical attention right away. Dog bites can introduce harmful bacteria into the wound.

If the bite injury is serious, go to any of Greenville’s emergency rooms or urgent care facilities. Dog bites can cause deep tissue damage, nerve damage, and scarring. They also carry a risk of rabies, depending on the dog. You also don’t want bacterial infections to set in.

Other steps you can take to support your case:

Document your injuries:

Take clear photographs of all wounds
Keep all medical records and bills
Record dates and times of medical visits
Save any torn or bloodied clothing

Report the incident:

Contact Greenville Animal Control at (864) 467-7595
File a report with local law enforcement
Get a copy of all incident reports for your records

Gather information about the dog and owner:

Owner’s name and contact information
Address where the incident occurred
Dog’s breed and description
Vaccination records, if available

Document the scene:

Take photos of where the incident occurred
Note any warning signs (or lack thereof)
Identify any witnesses and get their contact information
Record the exact date, time, and circumstances of the bite

Keep detailed records:

Medical treatment and medications
Time missed from work
Out-of-pocket expenses
Pain journal documenting your recovery
All communication with insurance companies

Watch for complications:

Monitor for signs of infection
Attend all follow-up appointments
Complete prescribed treatments
Document any lasting effects or scarring

If the dog owner’s insurance company contacts you, don’t give them any recorded statements. Don’t sign any documents without legal review, and don’t accept quick settlement offers.

Contact an Attorney

Consider consulting a personal injury attorney if:

The injuries are serious
There are significant medical bills
You’ve missed work due to the injury
The owner denies responsibility
Insurance companies are being uncooperative
There are questions about liability

Our personal injury attorneys in Greenville offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront, and we only accept attorney fees if we recover compensation for you.

Our Approach to Dog Bite Cases

At Joye Law Firm, we adopt a comprehensive strategy to advocate for dog bite victims: dog about to bite a man's arm

Free Initial Consultation: We offer a no-obligation meeting to assess your case and discuss potential legal avenues.
Thorough Investigation: Our team gathers all pertinent evidence, including medical records and witness statements, to build a robust case.
Collaboration with Medical Professionals: We work closely with healthcare providers to understand the full extent of your injuries and necessary treatments.
Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Our attorneys engage with insurers to seek fair settlements that reflect the true value of your claim.
Preparation for Trial if Needed: While most injury cases settle, we are prepared to advocate for you in court to pursue the compensation you deserve.