Dogs are supposed to be a person’s best friend. And they are in many situations. However, these powerful animals can turn aggressive for many reasons, which can lead to a dog bite or attack.
A dog bite can be a traumatic experience, both physically and emotionally. It’s important to take immediate steps to care for the wound and protect your health.
Seek Medical Attention
For severe bites, like if the bite is deep, on your face, hands, or feet, or if you can’t control the bleeding, call Greenville emergency services (911). For less severe bites, visit an urgent care center or your doctor as soon as possible.
Your wounds will need to be treated, and you will likely be started on antibiotics to avoid the possibility of infection. These treatments are common no matter what type of dog bit you or how bad the attack was.
Clean the Wound
Before you clean your dog bite wound, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent introduction of more bacteria to the area. Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth to stop bleeding.
Rinse the wound with mild soap and warm water for at least five minutes. This helps remove dirt, saliva, and bacteria. Do not flush the wound with hydrogen peroxide, iodine, or alcohol. These substances can irritate the wound and delay healing.
Apply an antibiotic ointment to the wound to prevent infection. Cover the wound with a clean bandage. Monitor the wound frequently for signs of infection, including redness, swelling, increased pain, pus, and fever.
Identify the Dog Owner
If possible, get the owner’s contact information and the dog’s vaccination records. This information is crucial for rabies prevention. If the dog was not vaccinated or its records are not available, the animal may have to be quarantined for a period of time.
You should also ask the dog owner if they have homeowners’ or renters’ insurance that will cover your damages associated with the dog bite. If they refuse to give you this information, contact a Greenville dog bite attorney who can file a lawsuit and demand the information from them.
Report the Dog Bite
If you’re bitten by a dog within the city limits of Greenville, you should report the incident to the Greenville Animal Control Unit. Their non-emergency number is 864-271-5333.
You can also call Greenville County Animal Control outside of the city limits. Their phone number is 864-467-7595.
Document the Incident
You should take pictures and videos of your wound, the dog, the dog owner, the location where the attack happened, and any other relevant opportunities that will document what happened. The insurance company may require your photos to determine the severity of the wound or to prove who is at fault for the incident.
You should also keep a record of medical treatment and expenses. If you miss any time at work because of your injuries, document any PTO or sick paid leave that you must take as well.
Contact a Dog Bite Attorney in Greenville, SC
One of the most important steps after an animal attack is to contact a Greenville dog bite lawyer who understand city regulations related to your specific incident. Whether you were on private property or in public, your attorney can help you get compensation for your damages.
What Type of Damages Can I Get After a Dog Bite in Greenville?
The damages you can recover after a dog bite typically fall into two categories: economic and non-economic. While it may be possible to get punitive damages in some cases where the at-fault party acted willingly or recklessly, they are rare.
Economic Damages
These are quantifiable monetary losses resulting from the dog bite. They include:
- Medical expenses: This covers costs like doctor visits, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and hospital stays.
- Lost wages: If you missed work due to your injuries, you can recover lost income.
- Property damage: If the dog caused damage to your clothing, personal belongings, or property, you may be compensated.
Non-Economic Damages
These are more subjective and focus on the impact of the dog bite on your life. They include:
- Pain and suffering: This compensates for the physical discomfort and mental anguish caused by the bite.
- Emotional distress: This includes psychological harm such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD resulting from the attack.
- Disfigurement: If the bite causes visible scars or disfigurement, you may be compensated for the emotional impact.
- Loss of consortium: If the injuries impact your relationship with your spouse or partner, you may be able to recover damages.
Greenville, SC Legal Process After a Dog Bite
South Carolina has a relatively straightforward legal process for dog bite victims. The state adheres to a strict liability law, which means the dog owner is responsible for any damages caused by their dog, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.
Here are some steps in the legal process that you might encounter after a dog bite in Greenville:
- Investigation: Your attorney will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case.
- Demand Letter: A demand letter is often sent to the dog owner’s insurance company outlining the damages and seeking compensation.
- Negotiations: If a settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to litigation.
- Lawsuit: A lawsuit is filed in court, and the case proceeds through the legal system, including discovery, depositions, and potentially a trial.
Contact Greenville Dog Bite Lawyer Venus Poe
Dog bites can be scary. You may not know where to turn after an attack. Attorney Venus Poe is here for you and your family. She knows that you need to get medical help and begin the legal process to get compensation for your damages. Contact us today for help.