Dogs can be loyal and loving companions, but if they become aggressive, they can also cause serious injuries. In South Carolina, dog bite cases fall under personal injury law, which means that victims can pursue compensation for their damages. This article will cover what to do after a dog bite, how liability is determined, and the damages that victims may recover.
Table of Contents
What to do after a dog bite
If you are bitten by a dog, the first thing you should do is seek medical attention. Even if the wound appears small, there is a risk of infection and other complications. Once you have received medical treatment, you should report the incident to your local animal control agency or law enforcement. This is important for several reasons:
- The dog may be required to undergo quarantine and/or rabies testing.
- Reporting the incident creates a record that could be useful if you decide to pursue legal action.
- The agency may be able to help you identify the owner of the dog if you do not already know them.
It is also recommended that you take photographs of your injuries and the location where the incident occurred. If there were any witnesses to the incident, you should try to obtain their contact information.
Liability for dog bite cases
South Carolina follows the "one bite rule," which means that the owner of a dog is only liable for damages caused by the dog’s aggressive behavior if they were aware of the dog’s dangerous propensities. In other words, if the dog has never bitten anyone before, the owner may not be held liable for a first-time bite. However, this does not mean that the owner is completely absolved of responsibility. Owners have a legal duty to control their dogs and prevent them from causing harm to others.
There are some exceptions to the one bite rule. South Carolina’s vicious dog statute allows for strict liability in certain situations. If a dog is declared "vicious" by a court or has a history of attacking or killing other animals, the owner may be held strictly liable for any injuries caused by the dog. Additionally, if the owner violates local leash laws or other animal control ordinances, they may be considered negligent and held liable for any resulting injuries.
Damages in dog bite cases
Victims of dog bites may be entitled to various types of damages, including:
- Medical expenses, both past and future
- Lost wages or income
- Pain and suffering
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Emotional distress
Determining the amount of damages can be complex, as each case is unique. Factors that may be considered include the severity of the injury, the victim’s age and occupation, and the impact of the injury on the victim’s quality of life.
Conclusion
Dog bites can cause serious physical and emotional harm, and victims should not hesitate to seek medical attention and report the incident to the appropriate authorities. If you are in South Carolina and are bitten by a dog, it is important to understand your rights and options for pursuing compensation. An experienced personal injury attorney can guide you through the legal process and help you recover the damages you are entitled to.