Greenville Dog Bite Lawyer

Experienced Dog Bite Attorneys Helping Victims Who Have Suffered Dog Bite Injuries in Greenville, South Carolina

Dog bites can inflict serious physical and emotional trauma. Under South Carolina law, dog owners can be held liable for the damages caused by their pets. Dog bites can cause serious damage, and even infections. For these reasons, South Carolina law allows dog bite victims to hold owners accountable for their injuries and damages, often by pursuing compensation from the dog owner’s insurance policy. Our Greenville dog bite attorneys understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a serious dog bite can take on victims and their families.

We have helped numerous victims recover fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. It is important to seek medical attention right away. You should also report the incident to animal control and contact an experienced Greenville dog bite lawyer to discuss your legal rights and options. While every case is different, Hammack Law Firm has helped numerous people who have been injured in dog bites or attacks. We understand the serious nature and potentially deadly implications of dog bite attacks, and we can help. Don’t let the dog bite without a fight.

If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog bite in Greenville, South Carolina, contact us at Hammack Law Firm today and request your free consultation by calling (864) 326-3333(864) 326-3333 or filling out our online form to discuss your legal options. Our team provides comprehensive and compassionate legal support to clients throughout South Carolina, starting with a complimentary case review. We take calls 24/7, so there is no need to wait to begin your case.

Key Takeaways

• Dog bite victims in South Carolina may be able to seek compensation through the dog owner’s insurance policy
• Dog bites can cause serious physical injuries, infections, and psychological trauma that may have long-lasting effects
• South Carolina holds dog owners strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets, regardless of the animal’s previous behavior
• Dog bite accident victims have a limited time to file a personal injury lawsuit, and certain factors can prevent them from recovering compensation
• Hammack Law Firm offers free case evaluations and handles dog bite cases on a contingency basis to help victims pursue the compensation they need

Our Greenville, South Carolina dog bite lawyers and staff at Hammack Law Firm are committed to our clients. With more than 19 years of litigation and trial experience, Paul Hammack has received an AV rating from the prestigious Martindale-Hubbell. In addition, Paul spent 17 years working for insurance companies, so he knows the industry playbook. We can put that knowledge and experience to work for you.

Services We Offer to Dog Bite Victims in Greenville

Our full-service law firm can guide your case from start to finish, so you never have to tackle the legal system alone. Some of the tasks our lawyers handle include:

• Investigating the incident to determine whose dog bit you, and compiling evidence
• Using South Carolina dog bite statutes and local leash laws to establish liability
• Building a case that outlines all of your recoverable damages and their value
• Completing and submitting paperwork to move your case forward
• Negotiating for an appropriate settlement on your behalf
• Offering guidance on various aspects of the case, so you can make sound legal decisions
• Identifying the statute of limitations to keep your case on track for timely filing
• Advocating for you in and out of the courtroom

There are many steps when seeking compensation for personal injury damages, but our lawyer team will prepare you and your case for success. We also operate on a contingency fee, so our attorney’s fees would come out of the potential compensation we seek for you—never from your own pocket.

What to Do Immediately in the Aftermath of a South Carolina Dog Bite or Attack

In the aftermath of a dog bite accident or attack in Upstate South Carolina, it is crucial to take immediate and appropriate steps to ensure your safety and well-being. The first step is to seek medical attention promptly, even for seemingly minor injuries, as dog bites can lead to serious infections or complications if not properly treated. It is also important to report the incident to local authorities, such as animal control or law enforcement, to document the attack and potentially prevent future incidents.

Following a dog bite or attack, it is essential to gather as much information as possible about the incident, including the owner’s contact information and the dog’s vaccination history. Taking photographs of your injuries and the scene of the attack can also be valuable for legal purposes. Consulting with a personal injury attorney who is experienced in dog bite cases can help you understand your rights and options for seeking compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages due to the attack. By taking these steps, you can protect yourself and hold responsible parties accountable for their actions in the wake of a dog bite or attack in South Carolina.

Working with Our Greenville Dog Bite Lawyers: Know Your Rights

If you or a loved one has been a victim of a dog bite in Greenville, it is crucial to understand your rights and seek legal help from experienced dog bite lawyers. At our firm, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered physical and emotional trauma due to a dog attack. Our team of Greenville dog bite lawyers are well-versed in state laws regarding dog bite incidents and will fight tirelessly to seek the compensation you need.

Working with our Greenville dog bite lawyers means you have a team of legal professionals on your side who will guide you through the entire process, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies. We understand the pain and suffering that one may suffer from a dog bite and will work diligently to hold the responsible parties accountable. It is important to consult with a knowledgeable attorney as soon as possible after a dog bite incident to protect your rights and maximize your ability to pursue a fair settlement. Trust our experienced Greenville dog bite lawyers to advocate for you and help you navigate the legal complexities of your case.

Damages Our Greenville, South Carolina Dog Bite Lawyer Can Seek in Your Dog Bite Case

All dog owners are responsible for the physical contact of their dog with third parties that may cause injury. A dog doesn’t have to be a vicious breed or violently attack someone for its owner to be liable for its actions. This includes individuals that are dog-sitting or who were hired to walk the dog. Any person responsible for the care of the animal at the time when it causes injury to a third party can be held accountable under strict liability in South Carolina.

If someone else’s dog attacked you, you may be eligible for compensation for your medical bills and other expenses related to the attack. Recoverable damages often include:

• Hospital bills
• Prescriptions
• Surgery
• Missed income during the recovery period
• Lasting damage from the injury, such as scarring or disability
• Pain and suffering

Dog bite injuries often require extensive medical treatment, including visits to the veterinarian, courses of antibiotic medication, and even reconstructive surgery in severe cases. Victims may need to get painful rabies vaccine shots if the dog’s health and vaccination status is unknown. Dog attacks can also cause serious infections and permanent scarring. Fortunately, South Carolina law allows dog bite victims to pursue compensation for both the economic and non-economic damages they have suffered.

Economic Damages

Economic damages cover the quantifiable monetary losses due to an animal bite. These may include medical expenses for wound treatment, reconstructive surgery, infections, and therapy. Economic damages can also compensate victims for lost income if they had to miss work while recovering from their injuries. The experienced attorneys at Hammack Law Firm can help dog bite victims pursue the full economic damages they are owed under the law.

Non-economic Damages

Non-economic damages compensate dog bite victims for the physical pain, emotional trauma, and reduced quality of life due to the injury. Victims may be able to pursue compensation for disfigurement, disability, and mental anguish under South Carolina’s strict liability dog bite law.

Damages	Description
Economic	Medical bills, lost wages, property damage
Non-economic	Pain and suffering, disfigurement, emotional distress

Determining the Value of Your Greenville, South Carolina Dog Bite Claim

The value of a dog bite claim in Greenville, South Carolina depends on several factors, including the severity of the injuries, the medical expenses incurred, and the pain and suffering endured by the victim. A skilled Greenville dog bite accident lawyer can assess the details of your accident to determine the full value of your claim, taking into account both economic and non-economic damages.

Some key factors that can impact the value of your dog bite claim include:

• The extent and severity of your physical injuries
• The cost of medical treatment, including emergency care, surgeries, and medications like tetanus shots
• Lost wages if you missed work due to your injuries
• The psychological trauma and emotional distress caused by the attack
• Any permanent scarring or disfigurement
• The degree of the dog owner’s negligence in causing the incident

For an empathetic and diligent legal team, seek the Greenville dog attack attorney of Hammack Law Firm. You can put your trust in our team and seek the compensation you need to recover from this horrific incident. Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now.

How Much Is My Dog Bite Case Worth?

Dog bite cases in Greenville can vary widely in value, depending on factors such as the severity of injuries, long-term disability, and the dog’s previous behavior. Insurance companies often play a significant role in these claims, as homeowners’ policies typically cover dog bites under premises liability. The American Veterinary Medical Association emphasizes the importance of proper vaccination, including tetanus shots, which can impact both medical treatment and case value. Understanding these elements helps our Greenville dog bite attorneys assess the potential value of your claim. Ultimately, each dog bite case is different. Our attorneys will help you navigate the complex process of seeking compensation.

Common Types of Dog Attack Injuries

A victim of an unprovoked attack should seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Some animal attacks can lead to catastrophic injury. The following are all common injuries suffered by victims of dog attacks:

• Puncture wounds – Dogs have sharp teeth and can use their strength to clamp down on victims. Limbs are common areas that suffer puncture wounds. These can lead to severe bleeding and in cases where the puncture is deep or leads to loss of skin, scarring.
• Broken bones – When a dog attacks, it may launch at victims, and the force can cause them to fall over and suffer a bone fracture. A hard fall can lead to broken ribs or cause someone to suffer a broken limb if it was used to brace the fall. If a dog clasps onto a limb with enough pressure, this may also shatter, fracture, or break bones.
• Infection of a bite – Due to bacteria in the dog’s mouth, a bite can lead to infection or disease if the wound is not properly treated and disinfected. This is why it is essential to seek necessary medical care after a dog attack. Some dogs may even be sick with rabies or other diseases like Capnocytophaga, Pasteurella, or MRSA, so always make sure to have the wound cleaned properly.
• Cuts, scrapes, and scratches – Even playing with a dog can lead to minor cuts and scratches. In the event of an attack, a dog can claw at the victim, causing these injuries to the entire body. These must also be cleaned and treated to avoid scarring or infection.
• Facial disfiguration – The face of a human is often the first target of a violent dog. When a dog bites or scratches a person’s face, the damage can be so severe that the disfigured victim may need plastic surgery to recover.
• Emotional trauma – An animal attack can lead to lifelong psychological trauma and fear of interaction with dogs, known as cynophobia. Victims of violent dogs and owner negligence should pursue legal action to be compensated for their pain and suffering, which may potentially include PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).

Dog bites can inflict a wide range of physical injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe lacerations, bone fracture injuries, and even amputations. Victims may suffer nerve damage, infection, and permanent scarring or severe or disfiguring catastrophic injury. In especially tragic cases, a dog attack can lead to the victim’s death, allowing surviving family members to pursue a wrongful death claim.

The psychological impact of a dog bite can also be devastating, especially for young children. Many dog bite victims, particularly those attacked by pit bulls or other large breeds, develop a lifelong fear of dogs. This can limit their ability to enjoy activities like visiting friends’ homes or playing in parks where dogs may be present. Seeking professional counseling can help victims work through the emotional trauma and develop coping strategies to manage their anxiety and changed behavior.

Dog bite injuries often require extensive medical treatment, which can be painful and costly. Victims may need stitches, surgeries, and physical therapy. If the attacking dog’s rabies vaccination status is unknown, the victim may have to undergo a series of painful rabies vaccine injections to prevent contracting this potentially fatal disease.

The physical and emotional impacts of a serious dog bite can last a lifetime, and it is important to account for the scope of injuries and losses you face due to the attack when identifying your damages:

Injury Type	Potential Injuries & Consequences
Physical	Lacerations, broken bones, nerve damage, infection, scarring, amputation
Psychological	Emotional trauma, anxiety, fear of dogs, changed behavior
Medical	Stitches, surgeries, physical therapy, rabies vaccine injections, costly bills

Do You Have a Valid Dog Bite Case in Greenville, South Carolina?

In South Carolina, dog owners are liable for injuries caused by their pets, even if the animal has never shown aggression before. If you were bitten by someone else’s dog, you likely have a valid personal injury claim under the state’s strict liability statute. However, you must file your lawsuit within three years of the attack, per the statute of limitations.

To determine if you have a strong dog bite case, consider the following:

• Did the attack occur on public property or while you were lawfully on private property?
• Did you seek medical attention at an emergency department or urgent care clinic?
• Do you have documentation of your injuries, such as photos or medical records?
• Did you report the incident to animal control or law enforcement?

The compassionate attorneys at Hammack Law Firm offer free consultations to dog bite victims in Greenville, South Carolina. They can review the details of your case and advise you on the right path forward. To discuss your potential claim, call their office or send an email today.

Dog Bite Laws in South Carolina

Every state sets its own laws regarding an owner’s responsibility and liability for their dog. The laws for dog bites in South Carolina are generally categorized under premises liability. Cities may also enact municipal leash laws — for example, the City of Greenville enforces a leash law for dogs when away from the owner’s premises. We’ve outlined some other laws that could affect your Greenville dog bite case below.

Statutory Liability for Dog Attacks

Unlike other states, South Carolina does not follow a “one bite” rule, sometimes referred to as the “free bite rule.” Instead, the modern dog bite statute of South Carolina states that a dog owner is strictly liable for damages suffered by a person who is “bitten or otherwise attacked,” whether on public or private property.

Under S.C. Ann. § 47-3-110, this strict liability law means a dog bite victim only needs to prove the animal caused their injuries in a personal injury case. They do not have to prove previous instances of violence or fault. However, the dog owner is not liable if the individual provoked the animal.

Landlord Liability for Dog Bites

Landlords are liable for dog attacks that occur in common areas of multi-family premises for which they are responsible. This applies if the landlord had some previous knowledge of the animal’s violent nature toward humans and was negligent in failing to remove the dog from the premises.

However, the landlord is not liable for injuries to a person if the dog attack occurred on the tenant’s property, where the violent dog was kept. An experienced dog bite attorney can assess how premises liability and landlord liability considerations may factor into your South Carolina dog bite case.

Dog Bite Liability and Previous Vicious Behavior

In Greenville, South Carolina, dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets, regardless of the animal’s previous behavior. This means that even if a dog has never shown aggression before, the owner can still be held responsible for bites or attacks.

Under South Carolina’s strict liability statute, a dog bite victim can pursue compensation from the owner if the attack occurred in a public place or while the victim was lawfully on private property. This is true even if the owner had no prior knowledge of the dog’s vicious tendencies. The dog’s breed is also irrelevant in determining liability.

If a dog bite causes serious injuries requiring medical treatment, such as profuse bleeding or surgery to repair damaged skin, the victim may have a strong case against the owner. Documenting the injuries and reporting the incident to animal control can help support a claim:

Evidence	Purpose
Medical records	Demonstrate the severity of injuries and need for treatment
Photographs	Visually document wounds, bleeding, and scarring of skin
Animal control report	Establish the date, location, and circumstances of the attack
Witness statements	Corroborate the victim’s account of the incident

The Statute of Limitations for a Dog Bite Claim in South Carolina

In South Carolina, dog bite victims have a limited time to file a personal injury lawsuit against the animal’s owner. According to the statute of limitations, claims must be brought within three years of the date of the attack.

If the victim fails to file suit within the three-year window, the court will likely dismiss the case, and the right to seek compensation will be lost. Therefore, it is crucial for dog bite victims to contact an experienced Greenville personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to discuss their legal options. An attorney can work to meet filing deadlines and progress the case.

Contacting Hammack Law Firm soon after the incident can help you protect your right to pursue damages and hold the negligent dog owner accountable.

How Long Will a Dog Bite Case Take in Greenville?

The length of a dog bite case in Greenville can vary depending on several factors, including the severity of the injuries, the victim’s recovery time, and the willingness of the pet owner’s insurance company to settle. In some cases, the victim may need extensive medical treatment, such as surgery or physical therapy, to repair damaged tissue and restore function to the affected area. This can extend the timeline of the case as the victim’s body works to heal.

If the case goes to trial, it may take longer to resolve than if a settlement is reached out of court. The attorneys at Hammack Law Firm have the experience and knowledge to guide clients through each step of the legal process, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance adjusters. We work diligently to pursue positive resolutions for each client, whether that means seeking a fair settlement or arguing for punitive damages at trial.

While some dog bite cases may be resolved in a matter of months, others can take a year or more to conclude. The timeline of a case may look something like this:

• Seek medical attention for injuries
• Contact Hammack Law Firm for a free consultation
• Attorney investigates the incident and gathers evidence
• Attorney negotiates with insurance company for a settlement
• If no settlement is reached, attorney files a lawsuit
• Case goes to trial, where a judge or jury decides the outcome

Throughout the process, the skilled attorneys at Hammack Law Firm keep clients informed and work tirelessly to help them pursue the compensation they need after a traumatic dog bite incident.

Reasons Dogs Attack and How They Warn Us

Although dogs are domestic animals and should not attack without reason, some causes of their aggression are not always obvious to humans. Besides being provoked, there are numerous factors that can lead a dog to act violently.

For example, five possible reasons a dog can attack:

• Feeling Protective Over Possessions — Dogs may become violent if they feel their possessions are at risk. This is especially true for possession of their puppies, food, water, and even their owners.
• Dog Is Injured or Sick — Sometimes dogs attack when they are in an uncomfortable condition, such as being injured or sick. The animal may carry a disease, such as rabies. If a dog does not look well, never approach it.
• Fear — Unfamiliar surroundings and strangers can cause some dogs to be afraid. To stay on the safe side, if you are not familiar with a dog, do not try to pet it or interact with it.
• Unexpected Touch — An animal can respond differently to different physical interactions with a human. Sometimes even a pat to the head can lead to feelings of discomfort or agitation. Never act in aggression or abrasive nature towards animals.
• Rough Play — Sometimes play can get out of hand. One minute, you are having fun, but the dog can become more aggressive as it progresses. Do not rough house with an unfamiliar dog and take caution even with dogs you know.

Take extra caution around unfamiliar dogs as you have no idea about their past. Some dogs may have been exposed to abuse, neglect, or other animal mistreatment. No dog acts violently without cause. Attacks can occur unexpectedly, so try to avoid unfamiliar, stray, or seemingly provoked dogs to prevent attacks.

Warning Signs and Taking Precaution

Dogs can change their behavior when they are about to attack. Some signals are obvious while others are too subtle for an unaware human to grasp. Knowing the signals and ways to prevent an interaction with a violent dog can keep you safe and reduce the chance of harm from an animal bite.

Dog Attack Warning Signs

Take caution and try to remove yourself from the situation when dogs begin to show these body signals:

• Turns head away from human
• Animal walks away from human
• Avoiding eye contact
• Licking lips or yawning
• Whites of their eyes become visible
• Growling, snapping or barking
• Showing teeth
• Raised wagging tail
• Tucked tail
• Fur is raised
• Rigid body

Steps for Dog Owners to Prevent a Dog Attack

Owner intervention can seriously reduce the likelihood of attack. Under no circumstance should a violent dog make contact with the public. Owners can protect the public by taking these precautions:

• Keeping dogs leashed in public
• Not taking injured or sick dogs out
• Avoiding interactions with small children
• Warning others of a nervous dog
• Distracting your dog if it acts violently

Neglecting these precautions may lead to dangerous scenarios where they may be liable for injuries.

Note that owners are not liable if an individual is attacked after provoking their animal.

Steps to Prevent Violent Dog Encounters

If a third-party comes in contact with an unfamiliar dog, they can take steps to prevent or defuse a possibly violent situation:

• Never approach or pet strange dogs
• Do not provoke an animal
• Know the warning signs
• Never try to outrun a dog
• Speak softly, especially to an agitated dog
• Distract a seemingly violent animal

Seek Professional Help with a Dog Bite Attorney in Greenville After a Serious Dog Attack

First and foremost, always seek the necessary medical attention after animal bite or attack injury. You will need proof of your injuries and the cost to treat them to recover damages, and appropriate medical treatment should involve documentation of the diagnosis and treatment.

If you wish to seek legal action against a violent dog with a negligent owner, South Carolina’s “strict liability” will not require proof of an owner’s failure to uphold their duty of care. However, that does not mean proving a dog bite case will be easy or quick, and you have a limited time to act under the state’s three-year personal injury filing deadline.

Our dog bite attorneys in Greenville can assist you in recovering damages to deal with your medical costs, pain, and suffering. When an animal attacks you, it can lead to emotional trauma and evoke fear that can last a lifetime. Negligent dog owners should be held responsible for putting you in harm’s way.

How the Insurance Policy of the Dog Owner Affects Your Case

Many homeowners’ and renters’ insurance policies provide coverage for dog bite liability. This means victims may be able to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages through the dog owner’s insurer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 4.5 million Americans are bitten by dogs each year. Many of the dog bite claims associated with these animal attacks involve premises liability considerations, and egregious neglect of duty of care toward others can lead to punitive damages.

Dog bite settlements paid by insurance companies often include compensation for the victim’s physical injuries, psychological trauma, and other damages. A settlement may cover medical expenses like ambulance rides, emergency room visits, medications, and even a tetanus vaccine. An experienced Greenville dog bite lawyer can help victims navigate the claims process and pursue the maximum compensation available under the dog owner’s liability insurance policy.

Your Attorney Will Handle the Insurance Company Negotiations

Pursuing compensation after a dog bite can be challenging, especially when dealing with insurance companies that may try to minimize or deny valid claims. Our experienced attorneys at Hammack Law Firm know how to navigate these complex negotiations and fight for the full compensation clients need. We gather evidence, such as medical records and witness statements, to build strong cases on behalf of dog bite victims.

Insurance adjusters often try to shift blame onto the victim, claiming they provoked the dog or were trespassing at the time of the attack. They may also argue that the victim’s injuries are less severe than claimed or that pre-existing conditions are to blame. A skilled Greenville dog bite lawyer can refute these arguments and demonstrate the true extent of the physical, emotional, and financial damages suffered, from the initial wounds to any long-term disability.

At Hammack Law Firm, our attorneys handle all aspects of the insurance claim process, allowing dog bite victims to focus on their recovery. Whether the dog was a puppy or an adult, on a leash or roaming free, we work tirelessly to hold negligent owners accountable. With our help, dog attack victims can pursue the compensation they need to move forward after a devastating injury.

Factors That Can Prevent Your Financial Recovery in a South Carolina Dog Bite Claim

Certain factors can prevent dog bite victims from recovering compensation for their injuries, even if the attack was not their fault.

Dangerous Breeds, Criminal Activity, or Trespassing Could Lead to a Claim Denial

Some liability insurance policies exclude coverage for certain breeds deemed “dangerous,” such as pit bulls. The insurer may also deny the claim if the dog owner was engaged in criminal activity at the time of the attack. If the victim was trespassing on private property at the time of the incident, they may be barred from seeking damages under South Carolina law. This is true even if the victim suffered a traumatic brain injury or other serious harm involving catastrophic injury.

Provoking the dog can also limit a victim’s financial recovery. If the victim was teasing, tormenting, or abusing the animal prior to the attack, the dog owner may argue that the victim shares blame for their injuries. Hammack Law Firm can gather information to refute these allegations and protect the victim’s right to seek appropriate compensation.

Failing to seek prompt medical attention can also hurt a dog bite claim. Victims should visit a doctor or emergency room as soon as possible to have their injuries evaluated and treated. Without proper documentation of the harm suffered, it may be more difficult to prove damages in a lawsuit. The experienced attorneys at Hammack Law Firm can help dog bite victims understand their legal rights and take steps to maximize their financial recovery.

Here’s a breakdown of common situations and their potential impact on liability:

Scenario	Potential Liability
Unprovoked bite on public property	Owner likely liable
Bite occurs while victim is trespassing	Owner may not be liable
Dog is provoked before biting	Liability may be reduced or eliminated
Bite occurs at owner’s home	Owner typically liable unless victim was trespassing

Do Some Dogs Have More of a Tendency to Bite Than Others?

While any dog can bite, certain dog breeds such as pit bull, rottweiler, bull dog, and doberman varieties have gained a reputation for being more prone to aggressive behavior. However, it’s essential to remember that a dog’s tendency to bite often depends more on individual temperament, training, and circumstances rather than dog breed alone. A knowledgeable dog lawyer can provide insight into how breed-specific legislation might impact a dog bite claim in Greenville.

Factors such as improper socialization, lack of training, and owner negligence can contribute to a dog’s likelihood of biting. Provocation, whether intentional or unintentional, can also trigger a bite response in dogs that might otherwise be docile. Dogs can often be very perceptive of body language. Understanding these factors is crucial when determining liability and duty of care in dog bite cases. It’s important for dog owners to be aware of their pet’s potential for aggression and take appropriate precautions. This may include proper training, socialization, and adhering to leash laws.

Dog breed can be an important factor affecting the type, severity, or likelihood of dog bite injuries, though treatment and training (or lack thereof) on the part of the owner is a significant component.

Here’s a table representing factors that can influence a dog’s tendency to bite:

Factor	Impact on Bite Tendency
Breed	Can influence but not sole determinant
Training	Proper training reduces bite risk
Socialization	Well-socialized dogs less likely to bite
Owner Responsibility	Negligent owners increase bite risk

What Should One Do if a Child Is Bitten by a Dog?

When a child is bitten by a dog in Greenville, immediate medical attention is crucial. After ensuring the child’s safety, contact a dog accident lawyer can help protect the child’s rights and guide your family through the legal process.

Documenting the incident is essential for any potential legal action. A pit bull lawyer or bulldog lawyer can advise on gathering evidence, such as photographs of injuries and witness statements, which may be crucial for building a strong case.

As children are often more vulnerable to severe injuries from dog bites, consulting with an experienced dog attorney can help families understand their options for seeking proper long-term care for the child if needed, as well as steps to pursue proper compensation.

Here’s a step-by-step guide for handling a dog bite incident involving a child:

Step	Action
1	Seek immediate medical attention (apply a bandage and/or emergency first aid as needed)
2	Report the incident to local authorities
3	Document injuries and gather evidence
4	Contact a dog bite attorney
5	Follow medical advice and monitor recovery

How a Dog Bite Attorney Can Help

The experienced dog bite attorneys at Hammack Law Firm can help victims navigate the complex legal process and pursue the compensation they need under South Carolina’s strict liability law for dog bites. They understand the physical and emotional toll a dog attack can take and work tirelessly to hold negligent owners accountable. A dog bite (or a cat bite, for that matter) can introduce harmful bacteria or rabies into the victim’s body, requiring prompt medical attention and antibiotics to prevent infection.

A skilled dog bite lawyer can gather evidence to support the victim’s claim, such as medical records documenting the extent of the injuries and the treatment required. The attorney can also negotiate with insurance companies on the victim’s behalf to seek a fair settlement to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If necessary, they can even take the case to trial and argue for punitive damages to send a message that negligent pet ownership will not be tolerated.

At Hammack Law Firm, our attorneys understand that every dog bite case is unique. We take the time to listen to each patient’s story and tailor our approach to meet their specific needs. Whether the victim requires surgery to repair damaged tissue or ongoing therapy to cope with the emotional trauma of the attack, we fight for the resources their clients need to heal. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, don’t hesitate to contact Hammack Law Firm for compassionate, experienced legal representation.

During your free consultation, be sure to share any evidence you have gathered, such as photos of your injuries or the contact information of witnesses who saw the attack. Our attorneys at Hammack Law Firm can use this information to build a strong case on your behalf and to help refute allegations of provocation. We can also guide you on seeking appropriate medical treatment, such as antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent infection.

Start on Your Greenville Dog Bite Case Right Away

Acting swiftly after a dog bite incident in Greenville is crucial for building a strong case. A lawyer experienced in animal-related cases can provide clarity and guidance and help you file your claim ahead of the statute of limitations. Our professionals regularly help navigate complex legal issues, protecting victims’ rights and taking necessary steps to pursue justice and a fair resolution:

Action	Importance
Seek medical attention	Document injuries and prevent complications
Report the incident	Create an official record
Gather evidence	Support your claim
Consult a lawyer	Navigate legal complexities

Schedule a Free Case Evaluation with Hammack Law Firm to Discuss Your Dog Bite Claim in Greenville, South Carolina — Our Team Is Standing By to Offer a Free Consultation 24/7

If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Greenville, South Carolina, contact Hammack Law Firm today to schedule a free case evaluation. Their experienced attorneys can review the details of your incident and advise you on your legal options for pursuing compensation. They can also help you understand how South Carolina’s strict liability statute applies to your case, regardless of the dog’s breed or previous behavior.

Dog bite victims in South Carolina may be able to seek compensation through the dog owner’s home insurance policy. Hammack Law Firm’s attorneys can help victims navigate the complex legal process and pursue the maximum available compensation under the law. Dog bites can cause serious physical injuries that may require extensive medical treatment. Victims are also at risk of developing infections from bacteria in the dog’s mouth or contracting rabies or other diseases.

Don’t let concerns about legal fees prevent you from seeking the representation you need. Hammack Law Firm handles dog bite cases on a contingency basis, which means you won’t owe any attorney’s fees until and unless we win compensation for you. Whether through an insurance settlement or a lawsuit, we will fight tirelessly to seek the appropriate damages under South Carolina law.

Your well-being is our ultimate priority. Seek individualized attention to your personal injury case today. The compassionate and experienced Greenville, SC dog bite attorneys of Hammack Law Firm are ready to serve you and assist in your recovery. Call or text (864) 326-3333(864) 326-3333 today to schedule your free consultation, or complete a Free Case Evaluation form.

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