Our firm loves pets, but we understand it is our responsibility to make sure that our pets are not a threat to others. South Carolina has a strict liability statute that holds pet owners responsible for damages to a person who experiences an attack by their animal. A pet owner or caretaker can be found liable for dog attacks even when there is no actual dog bite. Oftentimes, a dog attack victim is not actually bitten by the attacking dog, but the victim suffered injuries escaping the attack. Whether jumping over a fence running up a set of stairs or even climbing a tree, we have seen victims sustain injuries such as torn rotator cuffs, knee ligament tears, and other traumatic injuries when escaping a dog attack. Dog bites can be equally devastating! A dog attack can create severe injuries to a person and can even result in death. A victim of a dog attack does not have to prove that the owner/caretaker knew or should have known that the dog was at an unreasonable risk of attack. 

Pursuant to Section 47-3-110 of the South Carolina Code, the owner or caretaker of a dog may be held liable for the injuries of someone attacked by the dog if the dog attacks a person while in a public place or if the victim was in a place they were allowed to be when the attack happened. If you have been attacked by a dog or sustained injuries escaping a dog attack you should contact our office right away. 

Gaston, Marion & Stubbs P.A., is a full-service law firm with an outstanding team of professionals who work diligently, creatively and compassionately on behalf of our clients each day. With offices in Chester, 803-385-2114, and Richburg, 803-789-2114, call today for a free consultation.