Charleston Dog Bite Attorneys

Powerful Advocacy for Those Injured in an Animal Attack

If you or a loved one were bitten by some else’s dog, the legal team at Kahn Law Firm, LLP stands ready to help you seek fair compensation for your losses. Our Charleston dog bite lawyers have over a century of collective experience representing clients who have been injured in an animal attack. We invite you to join us for a free consultation so that we can help you understand your rights and legal options during this time.

Call (843) 920-5690 or contact us online to find out how to maximize the compensation you receive.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Although dogs have been labeled “man’s best friend,” everyone knows that not all dogs are friendly. In fact, some dogs can be extremely vicious. With a mouth full of sharp teeth, dogs can do a lot of damage with a single bite.

There are several serious injuries that often result from dog bites, including:

• Bone fractures
• Puncture damage
• Facial injuries
• Nerve damage
• Infection
• Eye injuries
• Loss of limbs
• Disfigurement

Such injuries can result in thousands of dollars in medical bills. In some cases, you will need to take time off work to recover from your injuries. In severe situations where permanent disability results, you might not be able to return to work. If you have suffered losses from your injuries, you deserve to be compensated.

Dog Bite Law in South Carolina

Under South Carolina Code § 47-3-110(A), when a dog attacks a person in a public place or lawfully in a private place, the dog’s owner or keeper is liable for the losses suffered by the victim. South Carolina Code § 47-3-110(B) states that a dog owner or caretaker is not liable when the dog attack was due to the victim provoking or harassing the dog. The dog owner or keeper will also not be held responsible if the dog was working in a law enforcement capacity, had proper training and certification, and did not attack a third-party bystander.

Dog bite claims fall under the statute of limitations for personal injuries. Under South Carolina Code § 15-3-530, dog bite victims must file a claim for compensation within three years of the date of the attack. Failure to file on time usually results in the claim being denied.

What to Do After a Dog Bite Injury

After you have been bitten by a dog, you should seek medical attention immediately, regardless of the severity of the injuries. Delaying to obtain proper medical treatment could result in the wound becoming infected, as well as further complications.

There are several other steps you can take to help you strive for maximum compensation, including:

• Collect the contact info for the dog owner or caretaker
• Take pictures of your injuries from multiple different angles
• Keep a journal that describes the struggles that you have faced because of your injuries
• Record expenses you have incurred, such as medical bills and time off work

It is also important that you do not speak to an insurance company without first consulting with an experienced legal team. Trying to take care of this matter on your own could actually damage your claim. Our attorneys can help you avoid typical mistakes made by dog bite victims and negotiate on your behalf for a fair settlement.

Contact Kahn Law Firm, LLP at (843) 920-5690 to discuss your case with our experienced dog bite attorneys in Charleston.