Dog Bite Accident Attorneys in Sioux Falls

South Dakota’s Trusted Legal Team

Animals are unpredictable — even a well-trained dog can lash out unexpectedly when it’s hurt or feels threatened, or has been abused, or for many other reasons. There’s no easy way for a passerby to know if an animal poses a threat, and often pet owners themselves don’t realize that their dog poses a safety risk to those around it. 

Sioux Falls dog bite injury attorney David J. King can help you navigate these laws and file the appropriate claim. Call (605) 332-4000 or contact us online today to get started.

Types of Dog Bite Injuries

One of the most common types of injury we see in South Dakota and Iowa is violent attacks by dogs or other pets on innocent victims. These incidents result in injuries ranging from minor skin punctures and rabies transmission to long-term injuries and permanent disfigurement. If you’ve been attacked by a dog or another animal, we’ll work with you to make sure that the animal and its owner are held accountable for your injury.

Don’t Wait to File Your Claim

In South Dakota, a dog bite victim has three years to file a claim, but it’s in the victim’s interest to file a claim as soon as possible. Your case will be stronger if you can demonstrate that the animal in question has a history of aggression that the owner should have reasonably been aware of. But even if your injury is the result of an animal’s first violent act, the owner is still subject to the state’s negligence laws.

In dog or animal bite cases, we’ll address issues, including:

• Who owns the animal in question
• Any previous attacks on the animal’s record
• Where the attack occurred
• Premises liability and insurance issues
• The nature and extent of the injuries
• The extent and impact of scarring
• Emotional trauma

Answering Your Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bites

At the King Law Firm, we know that animal attacks are terrifying and that the dog bite laws can be confusing. For answers to your specific questions, we offer a free consultation with a dog bite lawyer who can answer any additional questions that you have and tell you more about how we can help you with your case.

What should I do if a dog bites my child?

If your child is bitten by a dog, it’s essential to prioritize their medical care and well-being. Seek immediate medical attention and follow the advice of your child’s medical staff. If possible, try to identify the dog’s owner and gather information about the incident. Reporting the incident to the police is also crucial, as it can help establish a record of the event. Additionally, consulting with a lawyer who specializes in dog bite cases can help you understand your rights and options for seeking compensation.

Does South Dakota have a ‘one bite’ rule?

Yes, South Dakota has a one bite rule, which means that a dog owner may not be liable for damages if their dog attacks someone for the first time. However, this rule also implies that if a dog bites someone for the first time, the owner is now on notice that their dog may be potentially dangerous. From that point forward, the owner has a responsibility to take reasonable precautions to prevent future attacks. If the owner fails to do so and the dog attacks someone again, they may be considered negligent and liable for any resulting damages.

What kinds of damages can a dog bite victim sue for?

The types of damages available to a dog bite victim depend on the severity of their injuries and the circumstances surrounding the attack. Compensatory damages, such as medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering, are common in dog bite cases. In some cases, punitive damages may also be available if the dog owner knew that their dog was vicious and had a history of attacking people, yet failed to take adequate precautions to prevent future attacks. Punitive damages are intended to punish the negligent party and deter similar behavior in the future.

The best way to plan your legal strategy is to sit down with an experienced dog bite lawyer in Sioux Falls. Contact King Law Firm at (605) 332-4000 to schedule a free consultation today.