Dog Bite Attorney in Hampton, SC
Dog attacks and bites can be physically and emotionally traumatic. You may be left with substantial physical injuries, emotional and mental distress, and significant financial losses, all caused by a dog owner’s negligence.
Fortunately, although you may be feeling intimidated and overwhelmed by the thought of bringing your case to court, when you have a dog bite attorney from our firm working for you, you can rest a little easier. Our team will fight for the compensation and benefits that are rightfully yours by filing your case, negotiating with insurers, and using evidence to support your claims.
Dog Bite Statistics You Need to Know
According to research from the Humane Society, there are more than 75 million dogs located across the U.S. In fact, dog bites are one of the top causes of child injuries, comprising approximately 50% of all dog bite injuries annually. More than 800,000 dog bite victims need medical attention, and there are approximately 20 dog bite fatalities every year.
A 15-year study conducted by the organization Dogs Bite confirms the lethality of dog bites for children and the elderly. According to their research, dog bites were responsible for more than 520 fatalities over the duration of the study. Of those fatalities, Rottweilers and Pitbulls were responsible for more than 75% of the fatal injuries.
For a free legal consultation with a lawyer serving Hampton, call 803-222-2222
Dog Bite Injuries May Allow You to Sue the Dog Owner or Other Liable Entity
Dog bite injuries in Hampton, SC are far more common than fatal injuries. Unfortunately, the injuries sustained in dog attacks and bites can still be life-threatening. Examples of the injuries seen in dog bite claims include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Penetrating brain injuries
- Organ puncture and failure
- Lacerations leading to septic shock
- Spinal cord injuries
- Back injuries
- Facial injuries
- Dental injuries
- Herniated discs
- Loss of limbs
- Paralysis
- Panic disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Agoraphobia
- Broken and fractured bones
- Road rash
These are only a few of the different types of injuries seen in dog attacks and bites. If you suffered another type of injury, do not hesitate to contact our Hampton, SC dog bite attorneys to discuss your opportunities for justice.
Personal Injury Lawyer Near Me 803-222-2222
How Dog Bites and Attacks Happen
There are many theories about why dogs bite or attack people. Per the British Broadcasting Network (BBC), dog experts attribute attacks to fear and territory. Many dog attacks happen when guests are in the home with whom the dogs are unfamiliar. The chaos and fear of strangers can lead the dog to harm an unsuspecting relative or friend.
Furthermore, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) agrees that dogs bite as a reaction to stress, or to defend themselves or their territory. Many sources also state that sick or injured dogs are more likely to bite.
Aggression in dogs is often a form of communication by the animal that they are uncomfortable, in pain, or distressed. Ignoring or misinterpreting these cues can result in serious injuries if the dog lashes out. It is on the dog’s owner to train them, familiarize themselves with animal body language, and own aggressive breeds responsibly. If the dog’s owners failed to prevent an attack, we can find the evidence that establishes their liability for your injuries.
Click to contact our Hampton Personal Injury Attorney today
What to Expect From the Dog Bite Claims Process in Hampton, SC
If you find yourself involved in a dog bite lawsuit, it is easy to become intimidated and overwhelmed by the unknown. However, when you have an attorney familiar with this area of law working on your case, the process can be much smoother. Although every person’s dog bite case is different, they generally will follow the same claims process.
You will typically start off with an investigation into the cause of your dog bite and attack. Once your personal injury attorney South Carolina has determined how the incident occurred, we will have a better understanding of what our next steps should be.
Most dog owners have renter’s insurance or homeowner’s insurance coverage that will protect them in the event of a dog attack or bite. However, even if the dog’s owner is insured, we may need to move forward with a civil claim if the amount of compensation paid out does not sufficiently meet your needs. Your attorney may suggest suing the responsible party in other scenarios, as well. They will determine the best option for you.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
How a Hampton, SC Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help
Your dog bite attorney in Hampton, SC will be responsible for the claims process. We understand that after everything you have been through, dealing with insurance negotiations and bringing your case to court may be the last thing you want to take on.
However, with our firm working for you, you do not need to handle any of this. We handle everything on your behalf so you can devote your time and energy to your recovery. Here are a few of the benefits of choosing our team to advocate for you after a dog attack or bite in Hampton:
- We will thoroughly investigate how the dog bite or attack occurred
- We will gather evidence needed to prove the dog owner’s liability and negligence
- We will find out whether the defendant has insurance coverage and proceed to negotiate with the insurance company
- We will go over the various ways your life has been impacted by the attack and resulting injuries
- We will contact you with case status updates
- We will make ourselves available to answer your question and concerns as they arise
- We are not afraid to bring your case to court if that’s what it takes
What to Expect From the Defense
It is not unusual for dog owners to fight back when they face consequences for their dog’s aggression. One of the top ways dog owners attempt to escape liability is by blaming the injury victim for their injuries.
If you are accused of provoking a dog, whether that be by hitting, kicking, punching, biting, throwing objects after dogs, or otherwise attempting to incite aggression or violence from the animal, the owner may be able to reduce their financial liability.
However, South Carolina also follows modified comparative negligence laws. As long as your portion of liability is not greater than 51%, you have the right to be awarded compensation for your damages at a reduced payout. The amount of compensation that will be deducted from your settlement will correlate with your percentage of liability.
We Can Interpret South Carolina Laws That Apply to Your Case
We understand that these laws can be particularly complex, so when you have questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact our dog bite attorneys in Hampton, SC to learn more about how your case could be affected by the defense.
Compensation for Dog Bite Victims in Hampton, SC
Dog bite victims have the right to be repaid for every loss they have endured due to the dog owner’s negligence. Our firm has a reputation for helping premises liability victims get justice.
In fact, our team has handled premises liability cases that resulted in awards of more than $16 million collectively. Some of the different types of damages that could be paid out in your dog bite injury claim include:
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
- Medical expenses
- Personal property losses
- Psychological trauma
- Reduced quality of life
- Loss of income and future potential earnings
Meet With a Hampton, SC Dog Bite Lawyer for Help Today
The dog’s owner should be compelled to cover your losses. Make sure you understand the total value of your claim and do not allow yourself to be taken advantage of during this difficult time in your life. Contact a dog bite attorney in Hampton, SC at Poulin | Willey | Anastopoulo, LLC. for a no-cost, risk-free consultation. You can reach us through our online contact form or by phone to get started on your case.
Call or text 803-222-2222 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
