On This page
    image of dog with mouth open showing teeth

    Dogs are said to be man’s best friend, but even typically well-behaved dogs can do serious damage if they attack. If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite injury in the Upstate of South Carolina, you know firsthand the physical, emotional, and financial toll it can take.

    Dog bites can lead to severe injuries, disfigurement, psychological trauma, and costly medical bills. If the dog that attacked you belonged to someone else, you likely have the right to obtain compensation for your injuries and losses from the owner.

    At Joye Law Firm, our compassionate Clinton dog bite attorneys understand the profound impact a dog attack can have on your life.

    We recognize the physical suffering, emotional turmoil, and the financial strain you may be going through.

    You don’t have to face this difficult situation alone. Our dedicated legal team is here to provide the support, guidance, and aggressive representation you need during this stressful and traumatic time.

    Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you and your family hold the dog owner accountable and recover the financial compensation you deserve. We’ve helped many animal attack victims recover the damages they are owed, including these recent cases:

    OUR RESULTS

    Dog Bite Laws in South Carolina

    Mark Joye and Ken Harrell discussing a caseSouth Carolina law holds dog owners strictly liable for injuries their pets cause (SC Code § 47-3-110). This means that even if the owner had no prior knowledge of their dog’s aggressive tendencies, they can still be held responsible for damages resulting from a bite or attack.

    Some limited exceptions apply to this strict liability rule. For example, if the injured person provoked the dog or illegally entered the owner’s property, the owner might not face liability. Additionally, South Carolina’s dog bite law does not apply to trained police or military dogs acting under the guidance of their handlers.

    Additionally, South Carolina has restrictions and requirements for owners of dangerous dogs. Owners who know their pet is vicious or prone to attack must keep it confined to their property and not let it wander off the premises unless safely restrained. They can face civil legal consequences and criminal penalties for failing to properly secure a known dangerous animal.

    Unlike some other states, South Carolina does not follow a “one bite rule” when determining liability. Even if a dog has no history of aggression or biting, the owner may bear liability for the first bite incident.

    In Clea v. Odom, 714 S.E.2d 542, 394 S.C. 175 (2011), the Supreme Court of South Carolina held that third parties could be liable for some dog bites. The court ruled that a landlord could be held liable for dog bite injuries inflicted upon invitees or licensees when attacks occur in common areas of apartment complexes. The Residential Landlord Tenant Act specifies that a landlord has an obligation to keep common areas in a reasonably safe condition.

    A dog bite lawyer from Joye Law Firm can help you understand the laws surrounding dog bites in South Carolina and how they apply to your specific case. We can advise you on the best course of action and help you make informed decisions throughout the legal process.

    The Importance of Hiring a Dog Bite Lawyer

    Mark Joye and Ken Harrell talking about a caseDon’t try to navigate the complex and overwhelming legal system. You’re already dealing with physical and emotional injuries. Call our Upstate dog bite attorneys instead.

    Many people are unaware that compensation for a dog bite claim often comes from the dog owner’s homeowners’ insurance. According to the Insurance Information Institute, more than one-third of all homeowners’ insurance liability claims paid out annually are due to dog bites.

    If you or your child has been bitten by a neighbor’s, relative’s, or friend’s dog, don’t let your relationship prevent you from seeking compensation through their insurance policy. This situation is exactly what policies are designed to cover.

    Insurance companies and the animal’s owner may try to downplay the severity of your injuries or shift blame to avoid paying the compensation you rightfully deserve. This is why hiring an experienced dog bite lawyer is so important.

    A skilled personal injury attorney can handle all aspects of your case, allowing you to concentrate on healing and moving forward with your life.

    They can:

    • Investigate the incident: Your lawyer will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case to demonstrate the dog owner’s liability and the extent of your damages.
    • Navigate the legal system: Dog bite laws can be complex, and legal proceedings can be confusing. Your attorney will guide you through the process, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way.
    • Handle insurance companies: Insurance adjusters often try to settle claims quickly and for as little money as possible. Your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. They will fight for a fair settlement that adequately compensates you for your injuries and losses.
    • Advocate for your rights: If the owner or their home owner’s insurance provider won’t offer a fair settlement, your attorney will be prepared to take your case to trial and argue for your rights in court.
    • File a workers’ comp claim: Unfortunately, many dog bite victims are delivery people, utility workers, sanitation workers, or people who work at other people’s homes or in public areas. If the bite occurred while a person is working, they may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits in addition to compensation from the dog owner.

    At Joye Law Firm, our Clinton dog bite lawyers have extensive knowledge in handling these complex cases. We understand all you’re going through, and we’re committed to providing compassionate, personalized representation tailored to your unique needs. With our skilled legal team on your side, you can focus on your recovery while we work diligently to pursue compensation for you.

    Common Dog Bite Injuries

    Charleston Corporate OfficeDog bites can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe lacerations, fractures, and even fatalities.

    Some of the most common injuries include:

    • Puncture wounds and lacerations: A dog’s sharp teeth can easily puncture the skin and cause deep cuts, which may require stitches or surgery to repair.
    • Torn muscles and tendons: In more severe attacks, a dog’s powerful jaws can tear through muscle tissue and tendons, leading to significant pain, limited mobility, and a lengthy recovery process.
    • Broken bones: If a dog knocks a person down or applies enough force during a bite, it can result in fractures, particularly in the hands, arms, or legs.
    • Facial injuries: Dog bites to the face can be especially traumatic, causing disfigurement, scarring, and potentially requiring reconstructive surgery.
    • Nerve damage: Depending on the location and severity of the bite, nerve damage may occur, leading to numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation in the affected area.
    • Infection: Dog bites can introduce harmful bacteria into the wound, leading to severe infections like cellulitis, sepsis, or even tetanus if left untreated.
    • Amputation: In severe cases, animal attacks can lead to the amputation of body parts that have been severed or damaged beyond repair.
    • Emotional trauma: The psychological impact of a dog attack should not be underestimated. Many dog bite victims, especially children, experience lasting emotional trauma, such as anxiety, fear, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

    The severity of an injury can depend on several factors, including the dog’s size and breed, the bite’s location, and the victim’s age and overall health. Children and elderly individuals are particularly vulnerable to serious injuries from dog attacks.

    Breeds Most Likely to Cause Dog Bite Injuries

    Some breeds of dogs are associated with more dog attacks. DogsBite.org, a nonprofit organization, and public education website, reported that fatal dog attacks on humans in from 2005 to 2019 included the following breeds:

    Pit Bull
    346 (66.4 percent)
    Rottweiler
    51 (9.8 percent)
    Mixed-breed
    27 (5.2 percent)
    German shepherd
    22 (4.2 percent)
    Mastiff/bullmastiff
    18 (3.5 percent)
    American bulldog
    16 (3.1 percent)
    Husky
    14 (2.7 percent)
    Combination of 37 dog breeds
    <9

    What to Do After a Dog Bite Incident in Clinton, SC

    To ensure your safety and protect your legal rights, if a dog bites you or someone dear to you:

    1. Seek medical attention: Even if the bite seems minor, it’s important to have it evaluated by a medical professional. If left untreated, dog bites can lead to serious infections and other complications.
    2. Report the incident: Contact your local animal control agency or law enforcement to report the attack. This can help prevent future incidents and may be necessary for pursuing legal action.
    3. Gather evidence: If possible, take photos of your injuries and the scene of the attack. Get contact information for any witnesses who saw the incident.
    4. Contact a dog bite lawyer: Consult an attorney to advise you on your legal options and help you pursue compensation for your injuries and losses.

    Compensation in Dog Bite Cases

    You may recover compensation for your losses if you or your child sustained injuries in a dog bite incident.

    Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may recover damages for:

    • Medical expenses, including emergency room visits, surgeries, medications, and doctor bills
    • Future medical expenses for ongoing care, therapy, and rehabilitation
    • Lost wages if you’re unable to work due to your injuries
    • Loss of future earning capacity if your injuries result in a permanent disability
    • Pain and suffering, including emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life
    • Property damage, such as torn clothing or broken items
    • Scarring and disfigurement

    In rare cases involving particularly egregious conduct by the owner, such as knowingly allowing a dangerous dog to roam free, a court may award punitive damages to punish the owner and deter similar behavior in the future.

    The amount of compensation you can receive will depend on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of your losses, and the liability of the dog owner.

    Joye Law Firm has been helping victims of animal attacks since 1968. We can help you evaluate your case and pursue the maximum amount of compensation available.

    How Our Clinton Dog Bite Lawyers Can Help

    Three attorneys discussing a caseAt Joye Law Firm, our skilled Upstate attorneys have a proven track record of success in handling dog bite cases. We’re here to provide the skilled legal representation and unwavering support you need during this difficult time.

    When you work with our firm, you can expect:

    • Personalized attention and compassionate support throughout your case
    • Thorough investigation and evidence gathering to build a strong case on your behalf
    • Aggressive negotiation with insurance companies to pursue a fair settlement
    • Skilled representation in court if a trial is necessary

    We believe every dog bite victim deserves quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we offer free initial consultations and work on a contingency fee basis.

    Our No Fee Guarantee means you won’t pay anything upfront for us to handle your case, and we only accept attorney fees if we recover compensation for you. This way, you can focus on your recovery without worrying about the legal costs.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Clinton Dog Bite Attorney

    What if the dog owner is a friend or family member?

    Even if you know the dog owner personally, in many cases, their homeowner’s insurance will cover the cost of your damages, not them. So you don’t have to worry about their personal financial responsibility.

    Our lawyers can address this situation with sensitivity to your friendship without sacrificing your financial well-being.

    What if I was partly at fault for the attack?

    If you were partly at fault for the attack, such as if you provoked the dog or were trespassing on the owner’s property, it may affect your ability to recover compensation. However, South Carolina follows a comparative negligence rule, which means you may still be able to recover damages if you were less than 50% at fault.

    How long do I have to file a dog bite lawsuit in South Carolina?

    In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit, is generally three years from the incident date. However, consult an attorney as soon as possible to preserve valuable evidence and protect your rights to pursue compensation.

    What if the dog owner doesn’t have insurance?

    If the dog owner doesn’t have insurance or sufficient coverage to compensate you for your losses, you may still be able to pursue legal action against them directly. A dog bite lawyer from Joye Law Firm can advise you on your options, and can help you seek the compensation you deserve.

    Contact an Experienced Clinton, SC Dog Bite Lawyer Today

    If someone else’s dog attacked and injured you, your child, or another close family member in Clinton, South Carolina, don’t hesitate to seek the legal help you need. The skilled and compassionate dog bite attorneys at Joye Law Firm are here for you.

    Contact us today at (888) 324-3100 to request a free, no-obligation consultation with our legal team. We’ll listen to your story, answer your questions, and provide you with personalized guidance and zealous advocacy throughout the process.

    Let us help you hold the dog owner accountable and increase your chances of getting maximum compensation. Please note: consultations at our Clinton office are available by appointment only.

    Contact Us
    Mark Joye