If a dog bit you or someone in your family, you could be entitled to compensation for your injuries. The experienced Charleston dog bite accident injury attorneys at Crantford Meehan know how devastating a dog attack can be, and we have the right experience to help you get the fair compensation you need and deserve.

Don’t wait until it is too late to take action. Call us or reach out to us online for a free consultation to discuss your rights and legal options.

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Overview of Dog Bite Claims in Charleston

Dog bites are not only painful but can also lead to lasting physical and emotional damage. Victims of dog bites in Charleston have legal rights and may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional suffering. Whether the attack was from a neighbor’s pet, a stray dog, or a dog that was improperly restrained, it’s essential to understand your legal options and seek professional legal help to ensure that your rights are protected. Our attorneys specialize in helping dog bite victims navigate their claims with confidence and experience.

When Are Dog Owners Liable Under South Carolina’s Dog Bite Law

Under South Carolina law, dog owners are typically liable for injuries caused by their animals. South Carolina follows strict liability rules, which means that owners may be held responsible for dog bite incidents even if they were acting responsibly and had no reason to believe their dog might attack someone. In many other states, injured victims must prove that the owner knew about a history of aggressive behavior, but in South Carolina, you will only need to prove that:

The dog bite resulted in injuries or harm.
You were either in a public place or on private property with permission.
You did not provoke the dog.

While this might sound straightforward, many dog bite victims struggle to get the compensation they deserve, especially for things like emotional trauma. To ensure your rights to a fair settlement are protected in your Charleston dog bite case, you should get help from a capable dog bite attorney. You can reach out to our team for a free case review with an experienced Charleston dog bite lawyer.

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Common Causes of Dog Bites

There are several reasons why a dog might bite someone. Understanding these causes can help both dog owners and victims avoid potential injury. The following are common reasons a dog might bite:

Dogs Feeling Threatened

Many dogs feel a sense of duty to protect themselves, their pack, or their territory when they perceive a threat. It's important for dog owners to be aware of their dog’s sensitivity to certain environments and situations. Even if a dog’s reaction is based on a misunderstanding, a dog that feels the need to defend itself can inflict serious harm.

Startled Dogs Attacking Reflexively

When a dog is startled, especially from behind or in a situation where it’s in pain, it may act on reflex. This "fight or flight" response can lead to a bite. Dog owners should be aware of their dog’s pain points and make sure to communicate to others whether the dog is in a comfortable state, especially if the dog is older or suffering from an injury.

Triggering Dogs' Predator/Prey Reflex

Small children, in particular, are at risk of being bitten when they run away from a dog. The dog may view this action as a prey response, prompting it to chase and bite. It's important for dog owners to train their dogs to understand the difference between a playful nudge or bite and an aggressive attack to prevent injuries.

A Scared and Unstable Dog

Dogs that have been abused or abandoned may be fearful of situations where others might not perceive any danger. This fear can trigger a bite, even if no real threat is present. Rescue dogs, in particular, may need time to adjust to new environments or people. It is vital for dog owners to communicate with others about whether their dog is ready to interact or needs time to feel safe in new surroundings.

A Dog Feeling Sore, Ill, or Injured

If a dog is injured, sore, or feeling unwell, it may become more irritable than usual, and situations that wouldn't typically worry the dog could cause it to act defensively. When dogs are sick or in pain, they should be monitored closely to prevent unexpected behaviors that could lead to a bite.

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Dog Bite Lawsuit Information

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What to Do After a Dog Bite in Charleston, SC

If you’ve been bitten by a dog, there are several important steps you should take to protect your health and your legal rights:

Seek immediate medical attention: Even if the injury seems minor, it’s important to see a healthcare provider. Dog bites can lead to serious infections, including rabies, and what might seem minor could develop into a severe wound.
Document the incident: Take photographs of the injuries and the scene of the attack. If possible, get the contact information of any witnesses.
Report the bite: Notify animal control or local authorities about the incident, especially if the dog was not known to you. This can help ensure the dog is tested for rabies and is properly monitored.
Get information about the dog and its owner: Obtain the contact details of the dog’s owner and, if possible, the dog’s vaccination history.

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How Can a Charleston Dog Bite Lawyer Help?

A Charleston dog bite lawyer can help you in many ways, including:

Investigating the incident: We will gather all necessary information about the dog bite and determine if the owner was negligent in managing their dog.
Working with insurance companies: If the dog’s owner has insurance, we will help you file a claim to cover medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Negotiating with the liable party’s insurer: Our team will handle negotiations with the insurance company to secure a fair settlement. If an agreement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court.
Providing representation at trial: While many dog bite cases are resolved outside of court, we are fully prepared to represent you at trial if necessary to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

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WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT US

“Helped me through the hardest time in my life “

Crantford Meehan has helped me extremely through the hardest time in my life and has gotten me such an AMAZING recovery after my accident. I highly recommend them to any and everyone I know. Even after my own mother got into an auto accident, they have helped us both successfully move forward with our lives...

Harleigh Tenio
My ‘go to’ for legal help.

Attorney William Crantford has been great! He is my “go to” for legal help.

David Childress
Mr. Meehan was very professional.

Mr. Meehan was very professional. He made sure to address all of the questions and concerns that I had while working with him. I would absolutely recommend Crantford Meehan to anyone looking for an attorney who works hard to get you the best possible outcome.

Nikki M.

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What Compensation Are You Owed for SC Dog Bites?

Attacks by dangerous dogs can cause serious injuries and emotional distress, and compensation may be available for all of your financial losses and suffering. You may be able to recover compensation for the following losses:

Medical treatment, including future medical care and physical therapy
Lost income
Emotional trauma
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Pain and suffering
Reduced earning ability
Disfigurement and scarring

From gathering medical records and other essential evidence to seeking a settlement for maximum compensation, you should get help from a lawyer for your dog bite case. Whether or not the attack caused physical injuries, you may have options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the time limit to seek dog bite compensation in South Carolina?

South Carolina has a statute of limitations that gives you three years from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to pursue compensation for your injuries. It’s important to take action quickly to protect your legal rights. If you were injured by someone else’s dog, don’t wait to get help from a Charleston dog bite attorney.
What are common injuries from a dog bite?

Dog bites can cause a variety of injuries, ranging from minor scratches to lacerations, deep puncture wounds, and even broken bones. Facial injuries are relatviely common, often requiring reconstructive surgery. In some cases, dog bites have serious infection risks, cause nerve injuries, and lead permanent scarring. It’s important to seek medical attention immediately after a dog bite to prevent complications.
Who is liable for a dog bite injury?

In many cases, the dog’s owner is liable for the injuries caused by their pet. If the dog was unprovoked and the owner failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the bite, they may be held responsible. However, liability can depend on local laws, the dog’s history, and other circumstances surrounding the attack. If the victim provoked the attack or the attack occured somewhere the victim was not lawfully allowed, the owner may not be liable.
Can I receive compensation for a dog bite in Charleston?

If you have been bitten by a dog in Charleston, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more. An experienced dog bite lawyer can help you evaluate your case and pursue compensation from the responsible party.
How long do I have to file a dog bite lawsuit in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for filing a dog bite lawsuit is three years from the date of the incident. It’s important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you meet the deadline and protect your rights.
Do I need a lawyer for a dog bite case?

While it’s not mandatory to hire a lawyer for a dog bite case, having an experienced attorney on your side can help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive fair compensation. A lawyer can also provide valuable guidance on whether a lawsuit is necessary in your case.