Dogs are widely known as "man's best friend," but not all dogs are the same. Some dogs may be friendly and approachable, while others may be territorial and aggressive. Unfortunately, even if you are not doing anything wrong, a neighbor's dog could still bite you and cause injury. This can be a frustrating and painful experience. So, what should you do if your neighbor's dog bites you? In this blog, we will provide you with the necessary steps to follow in case of a dog bite.
What to Do if You’re Bitten by a Dog in South Carolina
Here are the steps you should take if you suffer a dog bite in South Carolina:
- Seek Medical Attention – The first and most important step is to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if the wound seems minor, you should still get it checked by a medical professional. A dog's bite can easily become infected, and you may need antibiotics to prevent an infection. If the injury is severe, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
- Report the Bite to Your Local Animal Control Office – After receiving medical attention, report the dog bite to your local animal control office. They will investigate the incident and make a report. This will include obtaining information about the dog, such as its breed and vaccination status, and the owner's contact information.
- Document Your Injuries – Take photos of your injuries immediately after the dog bite. This visual documentation will be important for evidence when you file a claim against the dog owner's insurance. Find out the owner's name and contact information, so you can provide this information to your attorney.
- Consult with an Attorney – If you have been bitten by your neighbor's dog, consulting with a personal injury attorney is a good idea. They can advise you on the legal options and the process of filing a claim against the dog owner's insurance. The lawsuit can be based on different factors, such as negligence, prior knowledge of the dog's aggressive behavior, or violation of a local leash law. Your attorney can help you get compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Prevent Future Incidents – To prevent future dog bite incidents, educate your neighbors and community about responsible dog ownership. This includes training and socializing your dog, keeping it in a secure enclosure, and obeying leash laws. You should also be respectful of your neighbors and their property. If your dog is aggressive or barks excessively, seek professional help from a trainer or veterinarian.
Being bitten by your neighbor's dog can be scary and distressing. However, by following these steps, you can ensure that you get the medical attention you need, report the incident, document your injuries, consult with an attorney, and prevent future incidents. Remember, the safety of the community rests on responsible dog ownership and awareness of the possible risks of having a dog.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Our Experienced Dog Bite Lawyers in South Carolina
Don't tackle a dog bite lawsuit alone. Let Pierce, Sloan, Kennedy & Early LLC help ease the burden. Our personal injury attorneys have the knowledge and experience to guide you through the complex legal process, offer advice on your case, help build a winning strategy, and represent you in court. Plus, we have access to resources like expert witnesses and investigators, giving you the edge you need for a favorable outcome. Trust us to fight for your rights.
Give our dog bite injury attorneys a call at (843) 968-0886 or get in touch with us online today to schedule a free consultation with our experienced legal team in South Carolina.