Representing the Rights & Interests of Dog Bite Victims in York County, South Carolina & Surrounding Areas
If you or a loved one has been attacked by a dog, call the Rock Hill dog bite lawyers at the Lewis Law Firm. We’ve handled many serious dog bite injury claims, and we can help you recover from this traumatic experience.
Dog bites are serious legal matters. Under South Carolina law, “If a person is bitten or otherwise attacked by a dog while the person is in a public place or is lawfully in a private place, including the property of the dog owner or person having the dog in the person’s care or keeping, is liable for the damages suffered by the person bitten or otherwise attacked.”
Essentially, it doesn’t matter whether the owner knew the dog might attack. If the dog attacks someone without provocation, the owner is liable for the victim’s damages.
Get the Legal Help You Need Today If you’ve been bitten by a dog, call the experienced dog bite attorneys at Lewis Law Firm in Rock Hill. We’ll fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve. Call us now at (803) 327-1103 for a free consultation. Hablamos Español.
Why Hire a Dog Bite Lawyer in Rock Hill?
Dog bite cases may seem straightforward at first, but many factors can make the claims process far more complex than most victims expect. Understanding the cause of the bite, determining who is responsible, and dealing with insurance companies can quickly become overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to recover from painful injuries.
Some of the most common complications in dog bite claims include:
Severe injuries: Dog attacks can cause deep puncture wounds, infections, and other serious harm that often requires extensive medical treatment.
Owner insurance issues: Insurance coverage involving the dog’s owner can be confusing, making it unclear who is responsible for paying damages.
Property insurance complications: Coverage related to the property where the attack occurred may further complicate the claim, especially if multiple parties are involved.
Liability uncertainty: Determining who is legally responsible can be challenging, as both the dog owner and property owners may face liability under South Carolina law.
With more than 80 years of combined experience, the Rock Hill dog bite injury lawyers at Lewis Law Firm can help guide you through this difficult period and answer any questions you may have. We know how to navigate the challenges that may arise and can help you maximize your compensation.
“The staff was so friendly and professional! They treated me with respect and you can tell they care.”
- Justin R.
Puncture wounds: Dogs have strong jaws and sharp teeth that can puncture deep into the skin. These wounds may not seem severe at first but can lead to significant tissue damage.
Lacerations: Dog bites can tear the skin, causing deep cuts that may require stitches. These wounds can be painful and leave permanent scars.
Infections: Any dog bite has the potential to become infected, especially if the wound isn’t properly cleaned. Infections can lead to severe complications like cellulitis or even sepsis.
Emotional trauma: Beyond physical injuries, dog bites can also cause emotional distress, such as anxiety, PTSD, or a fear of dogs.
These injuries can also result in long-term medical issues, including:
Scarring: Some dog bites leave permanent scars, which can be both physical and emotional reminders of the attack.
Nerve damage: If the bite damages nerves, it can cause long-term pain, numbness, or loss of function in the affected area.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
If you or someone you know is bitten by a dog, follow these steps to protect your health and legal rights:
Seek medical treatment right away: Even if the bite seems minor, it's essential to see a doctor. Some injuries may require stitches, tetanus shots, or antibiotics.
Document the incident: Take clear photos of the injury and the dog, if possible. Note the location and any other details about the attack.
Report the incident: Contact local animal control or the police to report the bite. This helps create a record of the event and may be required for legal claims.
Collect information: Get the dog owner’s contact details and insurance information. This will be necessary for filing a claim.
Understanding South Carolina Dog Bite Laws
South Carolina has strict liability laws when it comes to dog bites, which means that a dog owner is responsible for injuries caused by their dog, regardless of whether the dog had a history of aggression.
Strict liability: If you are bitten in a public place or lawfully on private property, the dog owner is liable.
Defenses: In some cases, a dog owner may argue defenses such as provocation (if the victim provoked the dog) or trespassing (if the victim was on the property without permission).
How Dog Bite Claims Are Handled by Insurance Companies
Insurance companies can be tricky when handling dog bite claims. They may try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether.
Here's what you should know:
Insurance coverage: Many homeowner’s insurance policies cover dog bites, but the extent of coverage may vary. Some policies have exclusions for certain breeds or incidents.
Challenges in obtaining compensation: Victims may face delays or low settlement offers from insurance companies. Insurance adjusters may try to reduce the payout by downplaying the severity of the injuries.
To maximize compensation in your dog bite claim:
Work with a lawyer: An experienced dog bite lawyer can help negotiate with insurance companies, ensuring that you get the compensation you deserve for medical bills, pain, suffering, and other damages.
Document everything: Keep detailed records of your medical treatments and any related expenses. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be.
FAQ About Dog Bite Injuries in Rock Hill
Who is responsible if I am bitten by a dog in South Carolina? Under South Carolina law, if you are bitten by a dog in a public place or lawfully on private property, the dog owner is usually responsible for your injuries. The state operates under a strict liability rule, meaning the owner is liable even if they did not know their dog might attack.
Can I recover compensation for emotional distress from a dog bite? Yes, victims of dog bites can seek compensation for emotional distress, including anxiety, PTSD, or fear of dogs. Emotional trauma is recognized as part of the damages you can claim in a personal injury lawsuit.
How can I prove that the dog owner is liable for my injuries? To prove liability in a dog bite case, you must demonstrate:
That the bite occurred in a public place or you were lawfully on the property where the attack took place.
That the dog attacked without provocation.
That the dog owner was responsible for the dog's behavior and actions.
Our dog bite lawyer in Rock Hill can help you gather the evidence needed, including medical records and witness statements.
What defenses might a dog owner use in a dog bite case? The dog owner might claim that:
Provocation: You provoked the dog, either by teasing it or acting aggressively.
Trespassing: You were on the dog owner’s property without permission.
These defenses are not always valid, and our team can help counter them effectively to protect your rights.
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries from a dog attack, our team at Lewis Law Firm, LLC understands how traumatic and overwhelming the experience can be. Our compassionate staff can support you every step of the way. Let our dog bite lawyer in Rock Hill guide you through the legal process and help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
Call our Rock Hill, SC, dog bite lawyers today at (803) 327-1103 to get started on your case with a free consultation. Hablamos Español.
