If a dog has hurt you or a loved one in Georgetown, you may be looking for a Georgetown dog bites lawyer who handles these types of cases. These injuries can lead to expensive medical bills, lost time at work, and emotional stress. Evans Moore, LLC can help you pursue compensation while you focus on getting better. Our team manages the legal process so you do not have to face it alone.
Why Chose Us?
Evans Moore, LLC has represented injury victims in Georgetown and the surrounding areas in pursuing compensation. We take time to learn about your situation. We build a case that reflects the impact of your injuries. Our legal team handles the details so you can focus on recovery.
- Local knowledge. We understand the local courts, insurance companies, and laws that affect dog bite claims in Georgetown.
- Personal attention. Every case receives the time and resources it needs. You are not just a case number.
- Clear communication. We explain your options in plain language. We keep you updated at every step.
- No upfront cost. We handle dog bite cases on a contingency fee basis. You pay no attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation for you.
When you work with Evans Moore, LLC, you have a team that stands up for your rights. We treat you with respect throughout the process. Read what our clients have to say in our client reviews. Our attorneys have been recognized by Super Lawyers and hold a Superb (10.0) Avvo rating, reflecting our commitment to client service.
Dog Bite Laws in South Carolina
Dog bite laws differ from state to state. South Carolina follows a strict liability rule for dog bites. Under South Carolina law (S.C. Code Ann. § 47-3-110), a dog owner is generally responsible for injuries their dog causes when certain conditions are met. This applies even if the dog had never shown aggression before. This means you do not need to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous to seek compensation. Other states follow a one-bite rule. That rule may require proof that the owner knew the dog was dangerous. However, that rule does not apply in South Carolina.
Who Is Liable for a Dog Bite?
Determining who is at fault depends on the facts of your case. In many situations, the dog owner is responsible for the injuries their animal causes. Other parties may also share liability, such as:
- Property owners who allowed a dangerous dog on their premises
- Landlords who knew about a tenant’s aggressive dog
- Pet sitters or dog walkers who lost control of the animal
Evans Moore, LLC investigates the facts of your case. We identify all potentially responsible parties and pursue the compensation available to you. Our firm has recovered over $200 million in verdicts and settlements for clients.
Common Injuries From Dog Bites
Dog bites can cause a range of injuries, from minor to severe. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Puncture wounds and lacerations
- Bruising and soft tissue damage
- Nerve damage
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Infections such as rabies or cellulitis
- Broken bones from falls during an attack
Beyond physical injuries, many dog bite victims face emotional distress. This can include anxiety, fear of dogs, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These effects can last long after the physical wounds heal. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, dog bites are a serious public health concern affecting millions of people each year. For further guidance, Nolo’s overview of South Carolina dog bite laws provides additional context on victim rights.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite
Taking the right steps after a dog bite can protect your health. It can also strengthen your legal case. Here is what you should consider doing:
- Seek medical attention. Even minor bites can become infected. A doctor can clean the wound, check for signs of infection, and document your injuries.
- Report the incident. Contact local animal control or law enforcement. This creates an official record of the attack.
- Gather information. Get the dog owner’s name, address, and insurance details. Take photos of your injuries and the location where the attack happened.
- Collect witness statements. If anyone saw the attack, get their contact information and ask what they witnessed.
- Keep records. Save all medical bills, receipts, and any correspondence related to the incident.
- Contact a lawyer. Consider speaking with Evans Moore, LLC before you talk to an insurance company. Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim or push you to settle quickly. Reach out to Evans Moore, LLC to discuss your options.
Compensation Available for Dog Bite Victims
If a dog has injured you, you may be entitled to compensation for several types of damages, depending on the facts of your case:
- Medical expenses. Emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, follow-up care, and future medical treatment related to your injuries.
- Lost wages. Time missed from work due to your injuries and recovery, and potentially reduced earning capacity if your injuries have long-term effects.
- Pain and suffering. Physical pain, emotional distress, and the reduced quality of life caused by the attack.
- Scarring and disfigurement. Permanent scars or disfigurement from the bite that affect your confidence and daily life.
- Property damage. If the attack damaged clothing, glasses, or other personal items.
Evans Moore, LLC will evaluate the losses in your case. This can help you avoid agreeing to a settlement that does not fairly reflect your damages. Review our past results to see how we have helped others in similar situations.
How Evans Moore, LLC Builds Your Dog Bite Case
Building a dog bite case requires careful investigation and preparation. Here is how Evans Moore, LLC may handle your case:
- Investigation. We gather medical records, police reports, witness statements, and photos of your injuries. We may also look into the dog’s history to see if there were prior incidents.
- Insurance negotiation. We communicate with the insurance company on your behalf. Our goal is to seek a fair settlement that addresses your losses. If the insurance company acts in bad faith, we are prepared to hold them accountable.
- Case preparation. If we cannot reach a fair settlement, we prepare your case for trial. We organize the evidence and get it ready to present to a judge or jury. Our team has secured top jury verdicts in South Carolina courts.
Our team handles the legal work so you can focus on your recovery. Attorney James B. Moore Jr. and James B. Moore III, who was named to the Top 25: 2026 South Carolina Super Lawyers, lead our personal injury practice with a focus on delivering results for injured clients. Founding partner Scott C. Evans brings decades of trial experience to each case.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Georgetown?
In South Carolina, you generally have three years from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury claim. State law sets this deadline (S.C. Code Ann. § 15-3-530). Evans Moore, LLC can confirm the specific deadline for your case. Do not wait to reach out, as missing the deadline may affect your ability to pursue a claim. Visit our blog for more articles on legal topics.
What if the dog has never bitten anyone before?
In South Carolina, strict liability applies in many dog bite situations. The owner can be responsible even if the dog has never shown aggression before. You do not need to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous. Evans Moore, LLC can explain how the law applies to your situation.
Can I still recover compensation if a dog bit me on the owner's property?
In many cases, yes. Dog owners are often responsible for bites that happen on their property, even if you were visiting. Some exceptions apply, such as if you were trespassing or provoking the dog. A lawyer can review the facts of your case and advise you on your options.
Will my case go to trial?
Many dog bite cases resolve through settlement negotiations with the insurance company. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer an amount that reasonably reflects your losses, Evans Moore, LLC may recommend taking your case to trial. We will discuss your options and aim for an outcome that serves your interests.
How much does it cost to hire a dog bite lawyer?
Evans Moore, LLC works on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront attorney fees. We receive payment only if we recover compensation for you. You may still be responsible for certain court costs and filing fees. We can discuss the full details during your free consultation.
Contact a Georgetown Dog Bites Lawyer Today
If a dog has injured you or a family member in Georgetown, you may benefit from speaking with a lawyer as soon as possible. The sooner you contact a lawyer, the sooner a legal team can start gathering evidence and evaluating your options. Evans Moore, LLC offers a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your situation and answer your questions.
Call us today at (843) 995-5000 or reach out online to schedule your free consultation. We can review your potential claim and discuss the next steps.
