Another fatal dog attack by two pit bulls in Chicago can serve as a reminder the dangerous propensities of some of man’s best friends. According to statistics, dogs in the pit bull type classification are the most dangerous based on the number of fatal attacks by dog breed.
In South Carolina, dog owners and keepers are held liable for damages suffered by a person bitten, mauled or otherwise attacked by the dog, whether the attack happens in a public place or while the victim is lawfully in a private place, including the owner’s property or the property of a person having the dog in his care or keeping.
South Carolina dog bite and animal law contains a specific statute that for “dangerous animals.”
Under South Carolina law, a “dangerous animal” includes:
- A dog that the owner knows, or reasonably should know, has a propensity, tendency, or disposition to attack unprovoked, cause injury, or otherwise endanger the safety of human beings or domestic animals;
2. A dog that makes an unprovoked attack that causes bodily injury to a human being and the attack occurs off the owner’s premises. “Bodily injury” means broken bones, lacerations, punctures of the skin, or any physical injury resulting in death;
3. A dog A dog that commits unprovoked acts off the owner’s premises that cause a person to reasonably believe that the animal will attack and cause bodily injury to a human being;
4. A dog that is owned or kept for fighting, or one which is trained for fighting;
* A “dangerous animal” does not include an animal that attacks a person who is trespassing or who appears to be trespassing.
For more information on South Carolina dog bite and animal attack law, visit our Dog Bite Resource Library.
If you or a family member have been attacked or bitten by a dog, we will be happy to speak with you or send you free information on your legal rights. Contact us today.
