Understanding Dog Bite Laws in South Carolina

January 13, 2025
Savage, Royall & Sheheen

The first reaction to a dog bite is often confusion. Pain and shock can cloud your ability to think clearly about what needs to be done. However, the steps you take in the moments and days following a dog bite can impact the medical and legal outcomes of the incident.

In South Carolina, dog bite laws are designed to protect victims and ensure accountability.

These laws can feel complicated, especially when you’re trying to heal from an injury. Questions like “What happens after a dog bite is reported in South Carolina?” or “How do I handle the legal process?” can add to the stress.

At Savage, Royall & Sheheen, LLP, we understand how life can change in an instant after a dog bite. Our team is here to help you navigate South Carolina dog bite laws, so you can focus on healing while we handle the legal details.

South Carolina Dog Bite Laws

South Carolina’s Dog Bite Statute adheres to a “strict liability rule,” which is applicable when individuals are bitten or attacked by a dog for the first time. Under this rule, victims of dog attacks can claim compensation for their injuries without the need to demonstrate that the dog was previously known to be dangerous or that the owner failed to manage it properly.

This is applicable in any public setting or when you are lawfully present in a private location, which may include the property of the dog owner or the property of someone responsible for looking after the animal.

This simplifies the process for victims seeking compensation because they do not need to prove negligence or previous knowledge of the dog’s viciousness on the part of the owner.

However, the situation can get more complex if the victim somehow provoked the dog or was trespassing on private property. In such cases, the owner may have a valid defense to not be held liable for the dog’s actions.

What Happens After a Dog Bite Is Reported in South Carolina

When a dog bite is reported in South Carolina, the response is thorough and aims to ensure the safety of all involved.The process begins with a report to local animal control or the police to officially document the incident and trigger the necessary investigations.

Animal control officers will typically visit the scene to gather evidence, take statements from witnesses, and collect detailed information about the dog, such as the dog’s vaccination history.

Depending on the investigation’s findings, decisions will be made about the dog’s future and any legal actions against the owner. This can range from warnings and fines to more severe consequences if the dog is found to be a repeated danger.

What to Do if Bitten by a Dog

Here’s what to do if bitten by a dog:

  • Get Medical Attention: Even if the injury seems minor, infections and other complications can develop.
  • Report the Bite: Contact local animal control or the police to report the incident. This documentation can be crucial later on.
  • Gather Information: Collect contact information from the dog’s owner and any witnesses. Note the scene where the incident occurred.
  • Document Injuries: Take photographs of your injuries and keep detailed records of medical treatments and related expenses.
  • Contact a Lawyer: Understanding your legal rights and options is vital, especially if you face medical bills or have suffered significant trauma.

Long-Term Effects of Dog Bite Injuries

The most immediate concern of a dog bite is often the physical damage. Some people might experience nerve damage or muscle injuries that affect their mobility and dexterity. Scarring is also common, which can be especially distressing if it’s in a visible area. These physical reminders can sometimes require additional surgeries or therapies long after the bite has occurred.

Victims might also develop an intense fear of dogs, complicating daily activities or social interactions. This can lead to anxiety and depression, making it difficult to leave the house or return to normal life.

The aftermath of a dog bite can be challenging, filled with medical appointments and the emotional work to rebuild your sense of safety. The visibility of scars can also lead to self-consciousness and a withdrawal from social situations, impacting relationships and personal well-being.

Compensation for Dog Bite Injuries

If you’ve been hurt by a dog bite, you might be wondering about compensation to help cover costs and support your recovery. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Medical Bills: This covers any treatment you’ve had to receive, from the initial doctor’s visit to any follow-up care. It can also help with future medical expenses if your injuries require long-term management.
  • Lost Wages: If you’ve had to take time off work to recover, compensation can help replace the income you’ve lost during this period. If the injury affects your ability to work in the future, you might also be compensated for this lost earning potential.
  • Pain and Suffering: Beyond the visible wounds, a dog bite can leave you dealing with significant pain and emotional distress. Compensation for pain and suffering acknowledges the non-physical impacts of your injuries.
  • Punitive Damages: In cases where the dog owner’s actions were particularly reckless or negligent, you might also be awarded punitive damages. This is extra compensation that serves as a punishment to the offender and a warning to others.

How Our Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help

Our dog bite lawyers are here to stand by your side and provide the support you need. Here’s how we can help make things easier for you:

  • Investigating the Incident: We gather evidence, talk to witnesses, and collect medical records to strengthen your claim. Our thorough approach ensures that no detail is overlooked.
  • Gathering Evidence: We’ll help gather crucial evidence to strengthen your case, including medical records, witness statements, and expert testimonies.
  • Dealing With Insurance Companies: Insurance companies can be tough to negotiate with. We’ll handle all communications with the insurance companies involved, advocating for your best interests to make sure you get the compensation you deserve.
  • Maximizing Your Compensation: We know the physical, emotional, and financial toll a dog bite can take. We’ll work to ensure you receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other related costs.

Contact Our Dog Bite Lawyers in South Carolina

At Savage, Royall & Sheheen, LLP, we understand how emotionally and physically traumatic a dog bite can be. Our knowledge of South Carolina dog bite laws ensures that we can provide the best advice and representation possible.

If you have been bitten by a dog, contact our South Carolina dog bite lawyers at 803-432-4391 for a free consultation.

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