If you’ve ever been bitten by a dog, you know how painful and serious it can be. Dog bites can result in more than just physical injury; they can have long-lasting emotional and financial consequences. If you’re in South Carolina and you’re dealing with a dog bite, understanding the state’s laws is key to knowing what your rights are and how to protect yourself.

In this blog, we’ll break down what you need to know about South Carolina’s dog bite laws, so you’re better equipped to handle a tough situation and receive the justice you deserve.

South Carolina’s Strict Liability Law

In South Carolina, dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries caused by their dogs. This means that the owner is responsible for the bite, no matter the dog’s history. Even if the dog has never shown aggression before, the owner is still on the hook for injuries caused by the bite. This is a big deal because it cuts through a lot of the legal red tape dog bite victims might face in other states, where the owner only becomes responsible if the dog has bitten someone before or shown signs of aggression.

So, if you’ve been bitten, you don’t need to prove that the dog had a history of being dangerous; only that it bit you.

What You Need to Prove in a Dog Bite Case

South Carolina makes it easier for victims of dog attacks to file claims under the strict liability rule, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need to back up your case with the right info. Below are a few things that matter:

  • Where the Bite Happened: If the bite occurred while you were on public property or private property legally, the strict liability law kicks in. However, if you were trespassing or provoked the dog, your claim could be in jeopardy.
  • No Need to Prove Aggression: You don’t need to show that the dog was aggressive before the bite happened. If the dog bit you, the owner can be held responsible, even if it was the dog’s first time doing so.
  • Documenting Your Injury: Ensure you’ve got a clear record of your injury. Medical records, photos of the wound, and documentation from your doctor about how the bite’s affecting you all go a long way in proving your case.
  • Medical Treatment Is Key: Seek medical attention right away. Bites can lead to infections, and the sooner you get checked out, the better off you’ll be, both for your health and your case.

Common Defenses Dog Owners Might Use

Dog owners who are facing a claim may try to fight back by using a few common defenses. Some of these include:

  • Provocation: If the dog was provoked into biting you (you hit or threatened the dog), they might argue that you caused the attack.
  • Trespassing: If you were on their property without permission, they could argue you shouldn’t have been there in the first place.
  • Assumption of Risk: If you knew the dog was dangerous and still interacted with it, they might argue that you took the risk willingly.

If you find yourself facing these situations, don’t get discouraged. A skilled Charleston lawyer can help you fight back against these defenses and make sure you’re not left out in the cold.

What Can You Get from a Dog Bite Lawsuit?

If you’ve been bitten by a dog, you could be entitled to compensation for a few different things:

  • Medical Bills: From the ER visit to surgeries, physical therapy, or anything else you need to get back to normal.
  • Lost Wages: If your injury keeps you from working, you can claim compensation for the income you’re losing while you recover.
  • Pain and Suffering: The emotional and physical toll a dog bite takes on you, including lasting scars or PTSD, can also be compensated.
  • Punitive Damages: In some cases where the dog owner was reckless or malicious, you might get additional damages to punish them for their actions.

What to Do Right After a Dog Bite

  • Get Medical Help ASAP: Even if the bite looks minor, see a doctor. Dog bites can get infected fast, and some, especially from stray or unknown dogs, can expose you to diseases like rabies.
  • Document Everything: Take photos of the bite and the dog, get the contact info of any witnesses, and note where the attack took place.
  • Report the Bite: In South Carolina, you should report the bite to local authorities, especially if the dog wasn’t vaccinated. This is not just to protect you but to protect others too.
  • Call a Lawyer: Get a lawyer who specializes in dog bite cases. They’ll know the ins and outs of the law and how to fight for the compensation you deserve.

What If the Dog Wasn’t Vaccinated?

If the dog that bit you wasn’t up-to-date on its rabies vaccination, you could be at risk for rabies. This can make the situation even more serious. South Carolina law requires dogs to be vaccinated, and if the dog wasn’t, it’s considered negligence. This could strengthen your case against the owner.

Why You Need an Experienced Dog Bite Lawyer

South Carolina’s dog bite laws are generally in your favor, but that doesn’t mean the dog owner’s insurance or their lawyer won’t fight you. Insurance companies are in the business of minimizing payouts, and dog owners might try to avoid responsibility. That’s why you need someone who knows how to handle these cases, negotiate with insurers, and make sure you get the compensation you deserve.

An experienced lawyer can help you navigate the legal system, gather evidence, and fight for the best possible outcome.

Contact Leffew Law Firm for the Best Defense When Dealing with a Dog Bite in Charleston, SC

Dog bites are serious, and South Carolina’s strict liability laws make sure dog owners are held accountable. Whether you’re dealing with an injury yourself or you’re a dog owner looking to understand your responsibilities, knowing your rights is essential.

If you’ve been bitten by a dog, contact Leffew Law Firm to talk to a team of trusted Charleston lawyers. We’re here to help you get the compensation you deserve, and we’ll be with you every step of the way.