843-636-TREY
We Fight for Justice for Dog Bite Victims in Summerville
Attorney Trey Harrell is an experienced Summerville dog bite lawyer. With a dedication to putting victims and families first, our firm has the legal skill that you can trust. If you or your loved one was attacked by a dangerous dog, we are here to help. Contact us at our Summerville law office for a free consultation with a top-rated South Carolina dog bite lawyer. Remember, Trey helps!
Dog Bites Can Cause Devastating Injuries
Dogs have the potential to be extremely dangerous when the proper safety precautions are not taken. The most comprehensive data suggests that around five million people are bitten by dogs nationwide each year. Around 20 percent of dog bites, nearly one million in total, require professional medical attention. Dog bites cause injuries that reach far beyond a single wound. A powerful bite can tear muscle, sever tendons, and crush bone in seconds. Many victims suffer deep lacerations that require stitches, surgery, or skin grafts. Infection presents a serious risk, even with prompt care. Dog mouths carry bacteria that can spread quickly into the victim’s tissues and blood.
Key Point: All dog bite injuries need to be taken seriously. Injured victims should see a doctor right away. If you were bitten by a dog, there is an infection risk. Further, you need medical records to be eligible to bring a dog bite injury claim in South Carolina.
An Overview of Dog Bite Liability (South Carolina Dog Bite Laws)
Bitten by a dog in Summerville? Your case will be governed by South Carolina state law. There are some key things victims should know about dog bite liability in South Carolina. Our state follows a strict liability standard. That means that the law imposes responsibility on dog owners even when the animal has never bitten before. Though dog owners can raise defenses. Liability often turns on location, the victim’s lawful presence, and whether the dog was under proper control at the time of the attack. Here are some key points to know about dog bite liability in South Carolina:
- South Carolina is a Strict Liability State: South Carolina law holds a dog owner strictly liable when their dog bites or attacks another person. The victim does not need to prove prior aggression or owner knowledge. If the dog causes injury while the victim is in a public place or lawfully on private property, liability attaches by statute. In other words, you do not need to prove that a dog owner was negligent to hold him or her liable.
- Lawful Presence Is Required: To bring a successful claim, the injured victim must have a legal right to be where the bite occurred. Invitees, guests, delivery drivers, and utility workers generally qualify. Trespassers do not receive the same protection in South Carolina. In fact, unlawful entry can defeat a claim entirely.
- Provocation Can Limit or Even Bar Recovery: Provocation is another big dog bite defense in South Carolina. If the victim provoked the dog, the owner may avoid liability. Provocation includes actions that would reasonably cause a dog to react defensively or aggressively.
- Leash Laws and Negligence Claims: Local leash ordinances can support separate negligence claims. A violation may establish negligence per se. These claims matter when strict liability does not apply or when additional defendants are involved. It matters because strict liability in South Carolina applies to dog bites. Other dog-related causes of injuries, such as jumping or scratching, require negligence to establish liability.
Note: A negligent third party (non-dog owner) may also be liable for a dog bite if their negligence contributed to the attack. For example, a negligent apartment complex in Summerville could potentially be liable for a bite on the premises.
What is the Dog Bite Statute of Limitations in South Carolina?
Dog bite claims are highly time-sensitive. In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for a dog bite injury claim is three years. The deadline generally runs from the date of the attack. If the injured person does not file a lawsuit within that period, the claim is barred. The time limit applies to both strict liability and negligence-based dog bite claims. There are only very limited exceptions to the rule. Be proactive: Consult with a Summerville, SC dog bite lawyer right away after an attack.
Recovering the Maximum Compensation for a Dog Bite Injury Case in Summerville, SC
Were you or your loved one attacked by a dog in Summerville or elsewhere in the region in South Carolina? You have the right to seek compensation for the full value of your injuries, including any non-economic damages. Our Summerville, SC dog bite lawyer has the skills and experience to help you fight for the maximum financial recovery. Your settlement may include:
- Ambulance costs
- Emergency room care
- Hospital bills
- Other medical expenses
- Surgery, including skin grafts
- Physical therapy
- Mental health support
- Loss of wages
- Diminished earning power
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term disability
- Wrongful death
Why Trust Our Summerville, SC Dog Bite Injury Attorney: Remember Trey Helps!
Dog bite accident claims are complicated. If you or a family member was attacked by a danger, it is normal to have a lot of questions about your rights. Trey Harrell is a Summerville, South Carolina, personal injury lawyer who is well-versed in dog bite cases. We know the law and we know how to hold dog owners (and insurance companies) accountable. Your initial case review with our Summerville dog bite lawyer is free and fully confidential. Remember, Trey helps!
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Summerville Dog Bite Attorney Today
Attorney Trey Harrell is a Summerville dog bite injury lawyer with the knowledge and experience that you can trust. If you or your loved one was hurt by a dangerous dog, we can help. Call us now or connect with us online for a free, no obligation initial consultation. We handle dog bite injury claims in Summerville, Dorchester County, Berkeley County, and Charleston County, including in the zip codes of 29483, 29484, 29485, and 29486.
