Losing a loved one is always devastating. Dog attacks are one of the most unexpected ways that people lose family members. If your loved one was the victim of a deadly dog attack in South Carolina, you might be wondering if you can file a wrongful death claim against the owner of the dog that killed your family member. In this blog post, we'll explore everything you need to know about filing a wrongful death claim in South Carolina after a deadly dog attack.
Can I Sue the Dog’s Owner if My Loved One Is Killed in a Deadly Dog Attack in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, depending on certain circumstances, the owner of a dog that bites someone is strictly liable for any damages resulting from the dog attack. Therefore, if your loved one is the victim of a deadly dog attack in South Carolina, the owner of the dog that perpetrated the attack can be held accountable for your loved one’s death.
If your loved one's death resulted in medical bills, costs for a funeral and burial, or other financial expenses, you can pursue a wrongful death claim for these damages. Additionally, surviving family members, like spouses and children, are eligible to receive damages for loss of support and companionship.
It's important to note that there is a statute of limitations for wrongful death cases in South Carolina. The claim must be filed within three years of the victim's death. Failure to file within this period could result in the loss of your right to pursue damages.
How Do You Prove a Wrongful Death Claim Involving a Dog Attack?
To prove a wrongful death claim involving a dog attack, you must demonstrate that the dog owner’s failure to prevent the attack from happening constitutes a breach of their duty of care. This generally involves establishing that the dog owner was aware that the dog posed a danger to others and failed to take reasonable actions to prevent the dog from harming others.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Our Experienced Dog Bite and Wrongful Death Attorneys in South Carolina
If you or a loved one has been the victim of a dog attack, you're well aware of the substantial harm it can cause. From scarring and disfigurement to nerve damage and more, uncontrolled dogs can inflict serious injuries and cost victims their lives. That's why you need the trusted team at Pierce, Sloan, Kennedy & Early LLC. We understand the impact of dog attacks and specialize in providing expert representation to help you seek the justice you deserve.
For a free consultation with our experienced dog bite lawyers, you can reach out to us online or give us a call at (843) 968-0886. We would be happy to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have.