Why You Need a Dog Bite Lawyer in Myrtle Beach?
Dog bites can be scary, painful, and even life-changing. Whether you were walking down the street, visiting a friend, or simply minding your own business, being bitten by a dog is never something you expect. And when it happens, one of the first questions you might ask is, “What do I do now?” If you’re in Myrtle Beach, the best step you can take is to talk to a dog bite lawyer in Myrtle Beach who understands how to handle your case with care and skill.
If you’ve recently been injured and need help fast, contact Sansbury Law today, your trusted source for legal support in dog bite cases in Myrtle Beach.
Understanding Dog Bite Laws in South Carolina
Every state has different laws when it comes to dog bites, and South Carolina is no exception. Here, dog owners can be held liable if their dog bites someone, even if the dog has never shown signs of aggression before. That’s great news for victims, but it also means there’s a legal process to follow and that’s where a dog bite lawyer in Myrtle Beach comes in.
Your lawyer can explain your rights, walk you through what to expect, and help you build a strong case to get the compensation you deserve.
Why Do You Need a Dog Bite Lawyer in Myrtle Beach?
You might think, “I can just talk to the insurance company myself.” While that’s technically true, it’s rarely a good idea. Insurance adjusters are trained to settle claims for as little as possible. They may offer you a quick payout that doesn’t even come close to covering your medical bills, lost wages, or emotional distress.
A dog bite lawyer in Myrtle Beach knows how to fight back. They’ll gather evidence, talk to witnesses, review medical records, and negotiate aggressively to make sure you’re fairly compensated.
What To Do Immediately After a Dog Bite
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, your health and safety come first. Here’s what you should do:
- Get medical attention right away. Even small bites can lead to infection.
- Report the incident to animal control or the police.
- Take photos of your injuries and the scene.
- Get the dog owner’s contact information.
- Speak with a dog bite lawyer in Myrtle Beach before talking to the dog owner’s insurance company.
These steps can help protect both your health and your legal rights. The more documentation you have, the easier it will be for your lawyer to build a strong case.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bites aren’t just “scratches and bruises.” They can cause serious physical and emotional harm, including:
- Deep lacerations
- Nerve damage
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Infections
- Psychological trauma (especially in children)
The more serious your injuries, the more important it is to speak with a dog bite lawyer in Myrtle Beach who knows how to handle high-stakes cases.
Who’s Liable in a Dog Bite Case?
In South Carolina, the law is pretty clear: dog owners are usually responsible when their dog bites someone. That said, there are a few exceptions, such as if you were trespassing or provoking the dog. A qualified dog bite lawyer in Myrtle Beach can help determine whether the owner is liable and what your case is worth.
In some situations, landlords, property managers, or even pet sitters could share responsibility. It all depends on the details of the incident, which is why having an experienced attorney is crucial.
How Much Is Your Case Worth?
If you’re wondering about the average dog bite settlement in South Carolina, the truth is that it varies. Some cases settle for a few thousand dollars, while others can reach six figures or more, depending on factors like:
- Severity of the injuries
- Medical expenses
- Long-term care needs
- Emotional trauma
- Loss of income
A skilled dog bite lawyer in Myrtle Beach can assess your specific case and help you understand what kind of compensation you might be entitled to.
What Does a Dog Bite Settlement Cover?
When you work with a lawyer, they’ll fight for a settlement that covers:
- All medical bills (including future care)
- Lost wages if you missed work
- Pain and suffering
- Therapy or counseling
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)
Without a dog bite lawyer in Myrtle Beach, it’s easy to overlook some of these damages or underestimate what you’re owed.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally three years from the date of the dog bite. That might seem like a long time, but the sooner you take action, the better your chances of winning a strong settlement. Evidence fades, witnesses forget details, and the legal process takes time.
Don’t wait. Call Sansbury Law now to speak with a knowledgeable dog bite lawyer in Myrtle Beach who can get started on your case right away.
Can a Lawyer Help With Insurance Claims?
Absolutely. One of the most important roles of a dog bite lawyer in Myrtle Beach is dealing with the insurance companies so you don’t have to. Your lawyer can:
- File claims on your behalf
- Respond to insurance adjusters
- Handle negotiations
- Push back against lowball offers
Having legal representation can make the difference between a tiny payout and a full recovery.
Dog Bites and Children
Unfortunately, children are some of the most common victims of dog bites. These cases can be especially traumatic, and the injuries are often more severe. If your child has been bitten, it’s even more important to speak with a dog bite lawyer in Myrtle Beach who understands the sensitivity and seriousness of these cases.
In many situations, children need long-term care, plastic surgery, or therapy after a dog bite. That’s why it’s critical to fight for every penny they’re owed.
What If the Dog Owner Is a Friend or Neighbor?
This is a tricky situation. Many dog bites happen in familiar places, a friend’s backyard, a neighbor’s home, even a family member’s house. It can feel uncomfortable to take legal action, but keep in mind: you’re not suing your friend directly. You’re making a claim against their homeowner’s or renter’s insurance.
A compassionate dog bite lawyer in Myrtle Beach can help you handle this kind of case respectfully and professionally while still making sure your medical expenses are covered.
How to Choose the Right Lawyer
There are lots of lawyers out there, but not all of them understand the specifics of dog bite cases. When choosing a dog bite lawyer in Myrtle Beach, look for someone who:
- Has experience handling dog bite claims
- Knows South Carolina’s personal injury laws
- Is local to the Myrtle Beach area
- Takes time to answer your questions
- Has a track record of success
Choosing the right lawyer can make all the difference in how smoothly your case goes and how much money you receive.
If you’re ready to take the next step, reach out to Sansbury Law today to speak with a lawyer who truly cares about helping you move forward.
Take Action Now
Dog bites are more than just an inconvenience they can affect your health, your finances, and your peace of mind. Whether you’re dealing with hospital bills, missed work, or lasting trauma, you deserve justice. And that’s exactly what a dog bite lawyer in Myrtle Beach can help you get.
Don’t try to handle everything on your own. Get expert support from a legal team that’s been helping Myrtle Beach residents with personal injury claims for years. From start to finish, you’ll have someone in your corner fighting for your rights.
If you’re ready to talk to someone who can help, contact Sansbury Law today and schedule a consultation with an experienced dog bite lawyer in Myrtle Beach.
If you’ve recently been injured and need help fast, contact Sansbury Law today, your trusted source for legal support in dog bite cases in Myrtle Beach.