If you have suffered a dog bite injury in Florence, you need an experienced dog bite attorney who will fight for your rights. At Swilley Law Firm, LLC, our knowledgeable dog bite lawyers understand the physical and emotional trauma of being attacked by a dog. We are here to help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
The Serious Nature of Dog Bites
While dogs are often considered man’s best friend, the reality is that any dog can bite under certain circumstances. Even a seemingly friendly dog may lash out if it feels threatened, scared, or territorial.
Dog bites can result in very serious injuries, including:
- Lacerations and puncture wounds
- Broken bones
- Nerve damage
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Infection, including life-threatening infections like rabies
- Psychological trauma, especially in children
In the most tragic cases, dog attacks can even lead to wrongful death. The physical and mental effects of a dog bite can last a lifetime. Victims often require extensive medical treatment, reconstructive surgeries, and counseling to recover from the ordeal. This underscores the importance of holding negligent dog owners accountable.
South Carolina Dog Bite Laws
South Carolina has a specific statute regarding dog bite cases. The state follows a “strict liability” standard, which means a dog owner can be held liable for injuries their dog causes even if the dog had never bitten anyone before and the owner had no reason to believe the dog would bite anyone.
There are a few exceptions to the strict liability rule. An owner may not be liable if:
- The victim provoked the dog and that provocation was the proximate cause of the dog attack
- he dog was working in a law enforcement capacity with a governmental agency and in the performance of the dog’s official duties and other certain factors apply
It is also important to note that South Carolina’s statute of limitations for filing a dog bite claim is three years from the date of the injury in most cases. This means you have a limited time to take legal action, so it is critical to speak with a Florence dog bite lawyer as soon as possible.
Proving Your Dog Bite Case
Your Florence dog bite lawyer will investigate the incident thoroughly, gathering evidence like:
- Photos of your injuries
- Medical records and bills
- Witness statements
- Proof of the dog’s ownership (veterinary records, licensing, etc.)
- Documentation of any previous complaints about the dog
- Animal control reports
- Video surveillance footage, if available
In some cases, we may also consult with medical experts, animal behavior specialists, and other professionals to build the strongest possible case on your behalf. Our goal is to demonstrate the full extent of the physical, financial, and emotional impact the dog bite has had on your life.
Establishing liability in a dog bite case can be complicated, primarily if the attack occurred on the dog owner’s property or if there are conflicting accounts of what happened. However, our experienced personnel know how to uncover the necessary facts and evidence to prove the dog owner’s negligence and/or violation of state or local laws. We will do everything within our abilities in our efforts to hold the responsible parties accountable for your injuries. You can count on your Florence dog bite lawyer to provide the skilled representation you need at every phase of your case.
Seeking Full and Fair Compensation
Dog bite injuries can lead to substantial losses for victims and their families. You may be facing mounting medical expenses, lost income from missed work, ongoing rehabilitation costs, and more.
You may also be coping with immense pain, emotional anguish, and post-traumatic stress.
As your Florence dog bite lawyers, we will aggressively pursue maximum compensation for all of your damages, including:
- Past, current, and future medical bills related to the dog bite
- Lost wages and reduced future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Wrongful death damages if you lost a loved one to a fatal dog attack
We know the thought of going up against an insurance company can be daunting, especially when you are trying to focus on healing. Let us handle all the legal heavy lifting so you can concentrate on your recovery. We will deal with the insurance adjusters, defense lawyers, and other parties on your behalf.
Compassionate Client Service
At Swilley Law Firm, LLC, we treat every client who walks through our doors with compassion, respect, and personalized attention. We understand no two cases are alike, and we will take the time to listen to your story, address your concerns, and tailor our approach to your unique needs.
When you work with our firm, you will have a dedicated dog bite lawyer by your side every step of the way. We will keep you informed, answer your questions promptly, and give you candid advice about your options. While most dog bite cases can be resolved through negotiated settlements, we will not hesitate to take your case to trial if the insurance company refuses to make a fair offer.
Begin Your Path to Justice Today
If a dog has attacked you or a family member in Florence or the surrounding areas, the skilled legal team at Swilley Law Firm, LLC is here to help. Take the first step now by calling our office to schedule a consultation with a knowledgeable dog bite attorney.
You have nothing to lose and potentially much to gain by reaching out to us after a serious dog bite injury. Call now to learn more about how we can make a difference for you and your case. Your compensation and rights are on the line, and we will do everything in our power to help you get them!
