Dog Bite Injury Lawyer in Columbia

South Carolina Dog Bite Laws

When it comes to children, one of the most common liability cases that a Columbia personal injury lawyer handles is a dog bite. Animal attacks are often caused by negligent pet owners who do not place their dog on a leash or do not post proper warning signs. Under South Carolina law, the owner of a dog is liable for the injuries caused by that animal to someone in a public space (such as a street, sidewalk or park), or lawfully in a private place (such as their own yard or if they are an invitee or licensee on the lands of another). There is usually no requirement that the animal has a prior history of biting or attacking others.

With the popularity of keeping vicious dog breads such as the following in residential areas, these animal attacks are a frequent occurrence:

• Pit bulls
• Rottweilers
• German shepherds

Who is at Risk for an Animal Attack?

Unfortunately, many times the victims of a dog or animal attacks are young children. Those who are too young to physically defend themselves during an animal attack may be powerless to prevent severe injuries and permanent lifelong scarring or disfigurement.

Can My Dog be Taken Away for Biting Someone?

In certain situations, law enforcement can take your dog away after they bite someone. Your dog will likely be quarantined at a local shelter or veterinarian’s office. If you can provide proof of a current rabies vaccine, you will save the victim having to endure treatment for rabies, and may reduce the amount of time your dog is held in quarantine. States that do not have a strict liability statute when it comes to dog attacks usually have a “one bite rule”. You might also be liable if you are a ‘keeper’ of the dog — someone who does not own the dog but houses the dog on behalf of the owner — and you know about the tendency of that dog to attack or bite people.”

But regardless of whether the victim is a child or adult, these attacks can result in:

• Expensive medical treatment
• Lost income
• Substantial pain & suffering
• Wrongful death

How Can a Columbia Animal Attack Lawyer Help?

A Columbia animal attack attorney can provide invaluable assistance after a distressing event like a dog bite or other animal attack. They have a deep understanding of South Carolina laws pertaining to animal attacks and can help victims navigate the often complex legal landscape to secure the compensation they deserve. An attorney can provide expert representation, ensuring your rights and interests are protected throughout the legal process.

Here's a detailed list of services these attorneys can provide:

• Case Evaluation: An initial consultation allows the attorney to review your case and provide a realistic assessment of potential outcomes.
• Gathering Evidence: They will gather important evidence related to the attack, including medical reports, eyewitness accounts, and any known history of the animal involved.
  Negotiation with Insurance Companies: These professionals are skilled negotiators and can effectively communicate with insurance companies to achieve the best possible settlement.
• Litigation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will be prepared to represent you in court.
• Emotional Support: Alongside their legal services, a dog bite attorney can provide emotional support during this traumatic time, connecting you with resources that can help.
• Legal Advice: They provide advice on how to handle any future interactions with the animal or its owner.
• Representation for Wrongful Death: In tragic circumstances where an attack leads to loss of life, these lawyers can also provide wrongful death representation.

Contact Our Columbia Personal Injury Lawyers - (803) 359-3301

Wondering if you will need to hire a dog bite attorney? Frequently, those who are responsible for these animals may try to defend themselves from liability by denying ownership of the animal or falsely claiming that the animal was provoked into the attack. After a serious injury is sustained, they may quickly begin building evidence to try to deny your right for compensation. Hiring our Columbia, South Carolina personal injury lawyers from the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC can help improve your fighting chance of obtaining just compensation. It may be in your best interest to ensure that you are treated fairly and receive the just compensation you deserve.

Call a Columbia injury attorney at the firm for a free consultation!