The aftermath of a dog bite is traumatic and confusing. If you or a loved one have been attacked or bitten, it is essential to know your rights and options to seek justice and compensation.
Consult an experienced dog bite attorney with Marc Brown Law Firm to thoroughly understand your rights and options. Our experienced personal injury attorneys can guide you through the legal process and help you get fair compensation. Through our offices in Columbia and Sumter, we proudly represent those injured due to dog bites all across the state of South Carolina, including Bishopville. Contact our legal team to request a free consultation today.
South Carolina’s Strict Liability Dog Bite Law
Under South Carolina Code § 47-3-110, dog owners are strictly liable for all the injuries their dogs cause in public places or when the victim is lawfully on private property. This means that even if the dog has no history of aggression, the owner can still be held responsible.
A dog owner is held liable if:
- A dog bite or attack caused the injuries – This includes any harm caused by the dog, whether it’s a bite, scratch, or knockdown.
- The injured person was in a public place or lawfully in a private place – You could be on the sidewalk, in a park, or even on the dog owner’s property with their permission.
- The injured person did not provoke the dog – Provocation can be a defense for the dog owner, but it’s their burden to prove that you caused the attack.
Even if the dog did not bite you, you can still seek compensation if the dog’s actions caused your injuries. For example, if a dog jumped on you and caused you to slip and fall, the dog’s owner could still be liable.
What Compensation Can I Seek After a Dog Bite in Bishopville?
The law holds Bishopville’s dog owners strictly responsible for all injuries their dogs cause, even if the owner was unaware of dangerous tendencies. If you are injured by a dog in South Carolina, you can seek compensation for:
- All medical expenses for past and future medical bills, surgeries, medication, and physical therapy
- Lost wages if the dog bite injuries prevent you from working, including lost income and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering to cover physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the attack
- Damages for scarring, disfigurement, and psychological trauma
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Bishopville, SC
- Consult a doctor immediately – Even if the bite seems minor, it is essential to get checked by a medical professional to prevent infection and address any potential injuries.
- Document the incident – Gather as much information as possible, including the dog owner’s name and contact information, the dog’s breed, vaccination records, and any witnesses to the attack. Take photos of your injuries.
- Report the bite to the authorities – Notify the Lee County Animal Shelter or the Lee County Sheriff’s Office about the incident. This helps create an official record and verify the dog’s vaccination status.
- Consult with an experienced dog bite attorney – Marc Brown Law Firm helps you understand your legal rights, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies. We are also prepared to file a lawsuit on your behalf if necessary.
Contact Our Highly Experienced Dog Bite Attorneys Today For a Free Consultation
Marc Brown Law Firm’s dog bite team brings experience and offers compassion to guide you through the legal process and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. If you have been bitten or attacked by a dog, we urge you to call the dog bite attorneys at Marc Brown for legal assistance in filing a claim. Call or fill out our quick contact form today for a free consultation.