Sit. Stay. Down. Good boy. These are common phrases most people speak to their furry, loveable pet dogs as they alternate between sleeping, eating, and pooping. While most domesticated dogs are well trained and pose no foreseeable threat to any human, there are a few bad seeds that just can’t keep their fangs to themselves. Dog bites can cause serious physical and emotional injuries to their victims. However, it’s the dog’s owner that will unfortunately be liable to compensate the victim for his or her injuries. A skilled Columbia dog bite attorney can help these victims in the recovery process.
Strict Liability vs. One Bite Rule
Depending on the state you live in, a dog may be entitled to “one free bite.” States that allow one free bite subscribe to the notion that a dog owner must be aware of his dog’s dangerous propensities in order to be liable for any injuries that it causes from bite attacks. If the owner had no knowledge of the dog’s violent behavior and the dog then attacks somebody, the dog and its owner get one free pass from the law. However after that first attack, the owner is then put on notice of its violent behavior and will then be strictly liable for all future attacks from that dog.
South Carolina is a strict liability state. This means that an owner can be found liable for their dog’s attacks regardless of the dog’s behavioral history.
What Happens to the Dog?
Usually, nothing major will happen to the dog after an attack. In rare cases, however, a dog may be deemed vicious and the court can order the animal to be euthanized. A court order to have a dog that is “deemed vicious” euthanized does not happen easily. However, they will likely arise if the dog shows a propensity to attack others and has done so often. Of course, this is generally the solution only in rare circumstances.
Contact a South Carolina Personal Injury Attorney to Recover from Your Dog Bite Injury
If you have suffered an injury due to a vicious dog bite, you should contact a skilled South Carolina personal injury attorney at the Solomon Law Group to help you recover damages from the liable party. From the day you get bit, the statute of limitations starts running and you may lose your right to sue if you wait too long to file suit. As such, it is imperative that you reach out to our office today for professional assistance.
