According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AMVA), nearly one in five people bitten by dogs require medical attention. While some states have what is commonly referred to as a “one bite rule” that allows dog owners to escape liability when a canine has no previous instances of causing injury, South Carolina is among the many states that impose statutory strict liability on dog owners for dog attacks.
Did you or your loved suffer serious injuries because of a dog bite in South Carolina? Make sure that you contact the Nye Law Group before speaking to a dog owner’s insurance company. Our South Carolina personal injury lawyers can fight to get you all of the compensation you are entitled to as soon as you call 855-636-9277.
South Carolina Dog Bite Laws
Under South Carolina Code § 47-3-110, a dog owner or any person having a dog in his or her care or keeping is liable for the damages suffered by a person bitten or otherwise attacked by the dog in a public place or lawful private place. This liability does not apply if a dog bite victim provoked or harassed the animal or the dog was working in a law enforcement capacity that satisfied state requirements.
Dog owners can often be immediately apologetic following most dog attacks, but victims should not assume that this means they will not be accused of having provoked the animals. For this reason, it is critical for dog bite victims to retain legal counsel as soon as possible.
Types of Damages for South Carolina Dog Bites
The immediate aftermath of a dog bite can be extremely confusing and stressful for many victims. It is not uncommon for a person who has been bitten by a dog to personally know the dog owner.
As a result, many victims feel terribly uneasy about seeking compensation from people who are considered to be friends or possibly even family members. In truth, most dog bites are typically covered by a dog owner’s homeowner insurance policy.
Depending on the severity of the injuries involved, victims may be entitled to:
- Disfigurement
- Medical bills
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
Because these claims often need to be filed with insurance companies, victims should be especially cautious in discussing the incidents with insurers. You should avoid speaking to an insurance company representatives following a dog bite until you have legal representation.
Find a Dog Bite Attorney in Georgia
If you or your loved one sustained severe injuries as the result of a dog attack in Georgia, it is in your best interest to quickly retain legal counsel. The Nye Law Group has offices in Savannah and Hinesville, and we represent residents and visitors throughout the Peach State.
Our experienced Georgia personal injury lawyers will fight to get you all of the compensation you need and deserve. You can have our firm provide a complete evaluation of your case as soon as you call 855-636-9277 or contact us online today.
