Dogs are one of the most popular pets in America, but they are not always harmless. No matter the size or breed, dogs can bite, and sometimes those bites can be dangerous. Even if the bite itself does not do serious harm, it can lead to complications down the line.
If you have been bitten or attacked by a dog, a Columbia dog bites lawyer may be your best choice to aid in your recovery and help you access the financial compensation you deserve. At Shelly Leeke Law Firm, your dedicated Columbia personal injury lawyer has extensive experience with dog bite cases like yours. With our 10+ years of trial experience and millions recovered for our clients, you can rest easier after contacting our office to request a 100% free consultation.
South Carolina Dog Bites Continue to Cause Concern
While dog ownership is high in America, dogs can be a significant danger. This danger extends to all age groups, but children are often the most vulnerable to dog attacks, according to a study on the Analysis of Pediatric Facial Dog Bites published by the National Library of Medicine. This may be because they are less likely to recognize that a dog is dangerous.
According to a study by Randall T. Loder from the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Riley Children’s Hospital, on the demographics of dog bites in the United States, dog bites are one of the top 15 causes of non-fatal injuries in children. Bites to the head and neck typically happen in younger children, according to the study. However, attacks to the extremities, like arms and hands, are more common in older children.
Sadly, dog bites can even be fatal. According to a study published by the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC), 468 dog bites occurred in the U.S. between 2011 and 2021. If you or a loved one has been injured, or if you have lost someone to a dog bite, you may have grounds to pursue compensation with a dog bites attorney in Columbia with Shelly Leeke Law Firm on your side.
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What to Do After a Dog Bite
Whether you are visiting a friend or simply walking down the street, there is a chance you could be bitten by a dog. While you should certainly seek medical attention quickly, that is not the only step you should take. After a bite, you should:
- Notify the owner if you know their identity.
- If not, notify your local animal control office.
- Seek medical treatment as soon as possible.
- Keep your medical bills and any other documentation of cost.
- Record every detail of your recovery, keeping careful notes.
- Reach out to a dog bites lawyer in Columbia.
If you intend to file a personal injury claim against the dog’s owner, you will want as much documentation as you can gather. Every bit of evidence can help your Columbia dog bites lawyer to build the strongest case possible. However, if you are unsure who owns the animal, we may need to explore alternative options.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
No matter how cute or friendly a dog may be, it is important to remember that dogs are unpredictable. When they attach, the injuries they cause can be serious. Common dog bite-related injuries include:
- Lacerations and bruising.
- Puncture wounds.
- Severe facial injuries.
- Broken bones.
- Nerve and muscle damage.
- Spine and brain injuries.
- Heavy bleeding.
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Possible Compensation for Dog Bites
The purpose of a dog bite accident claim is to seek compensation for the damages caused by the attack. An injury of this nature usually leads to various costs, which may be difficult to handle on your own. With a settlement, the dog’s owner should be expected to cover your expenses, making recovery significantly easier.
The material costs caused by the bite can be classified as economic damages. This can include medical bills, treatment, lost wages, and any other monetary expenses from the attack. If the dog bite was fatal, a close family member may seek compensation to cover funeral costs and funeral costs, as well as non-economic damages under S.C. Code §15-3-530(6), with help from a compassionate Columbia wrongful death lawyer.
Your dog bites lawyer in Columbia can also seek the compensation you deserve for the non-economic damages you experience as a result of a dog bite or animal attack. These can consist of emotional damages, such as the pain and suffering you endured. In an event as traumatic as a dog attack, non-economic damages can make up a significant portion of your settlement.
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South Carolina Dog Bite Laws
Under South Carolina’s strict liability laws, the owner of a dog is responsible for the actions of the animal. According to S.C. Code §47-3-110, the owner is financially liable for any damage done by their dog in a public or private place. If you have been injured in a dog attack, whoever owns that animal, or was responsible for it at the time of the attack, should be responsible for compensating you.
Victims do not have to prove that the person was acting negligently because the dog’s owner is typically liable for the victim’s damages. This is true even if the dog did not have a history of aggression. The only exceptions are if the victim was purposefully provoking the dog or if it was a working police dog.
Pet owners in Columbia must have a license to own a pet, according to the City of Columbia Animal Services, which must be renewed every year. If someone owns more than three dogs, they need a kennel license as well. Dog owners must also be able to provide proof of a rabies vaccination upon request.
Dog Bite Lawsuit Statute of Limitations
Under the South Carolina Code of Laws §15-3-530, a victim hoping to pursue a personal injury or dog bite claim must do so within three years. This means you only have a limited amount of time to seek compensation from the dog’s owner or other liable party. Otherwise, you could be barred from further legal action.
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Get Help from a Leading Columbia Dog Bites Lawyer Today
At Shelly Leeke Law Firm, we are here to help you get the settlement you deserve, working with you through the entire process, just as we have for countless other clients. Your Columbia catastrophic injury lawyer is eager to help you identify the liable party, determine the value of your claim, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us via our quick contact form or by phone to get started today.