Bitten or Scratched by a Dog?
SC Law Allows Compensation for Injuries Resulting from Dog Attacks
When someone else’s dog bites you or your family member, it can be a scary and uncertain time. Many people wonder what they should do first in this situation. Here are a few helpful steps to ensure that you get the care you deserve.
STEP 1 – According to the Cleveland Clinic, the number one concern with a dog bite that breaks the skin is infection. They recommend washing the wound, stopping the bleeding, and seeking medical treatment from an emergency room or family physician. South Carolina law (SC Code 47-5-90) requires the attending physician to report all animal bites to the county health department by the end of the next working day.
STEP 2- In South Carolina, you should also contact local animal control or law enforcement yourself and file a report. South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) states that you should be prepared to report the following information: “the owner’s name, if you know it; the color and size of the dog; where you encountered the dog; and if, where, and when you’ve seen it before. These details may help authorities locate the dog and find out if it has been vaccinated for rabies. If the animal and the owner can be located, DHEC will investigate the incident to determine if the animal will need to be quarantined – kept away from the public and other animals.”
STEP 3 – Call Loignon Law Firm for a free consultation. We are experienced in litigating dog attack cases. We understand the laws and regulations associated with ensuring you receive fair compensation for your injuries. South Carolina has strict liability for dog owners who allow their pets to bite or scratch others. SC Code 47-3-110 states that “whenever any person is bitten or otherwise attacked by a dog while the person is in a public place or is lawfully in a private place, including the property of the owner of the dog or other person having the dog in his care or keeping, the owner of the dog or other person having the dog in his care or keeping is liable for the damages suffered by the person bitten or otherwise attacked.”
Dog attacks that cause injury can be a terrifying and expensive ordeal. The dog owner’s liability insurance policy should bear the burden in this situation. If you have been attacked by a dog, contact Loignon Law Firm today at (843) 790-9388 to speak to an attorney and get a free estimate of your case value.
