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What To Do If A Dog Bites A FedEx Driver?

Writer David Wilson

Many people make fun of dogs’ apparent dislike towards courier workers, such as those employed by UPS, DHL, and FedEx. In most cases, this issue is limited to excessive barking. When a dog gets violent, a FedEx driver may suffer severe injuries.

Silky Terrier Dog Breed Playing Aro... Silky Terrier Dog Breed Playing Around

Know Your Legal Rights

Being attacked by a pit bull or any other dog is often a frightening event. After the incident, you may be left with severe scars and a lengthy recovery. The best part is that South Carolina affords greater legal protection to animal bite victims than many other states. 

Silky Terrier Dog Breed Playing Around
For example, although it is customary for dog owners to profit from what is known as the “one-bite” rule in other states, this is not the case in South Carolina. Owners are legally responsible from the first occurrence, and no prior evidence of the dog being harmful is required.

Workers Compensation Claim

Injured couriers may submit a workers’ compensation claim. After all, you wouldn’t have been exposed to the dog if you hadn’t been delivering a box as a courier. Filing a lawsuit may save you a lot of money on medical expenses.

South Carolina’s workers’ compensation statutes state:

  • The wounded employee must report promptly. If you don’t disclose an injury for 90 days, your company isn’t liable.
  • An animal bite claim must be submitted within two years.
  • An accepted claim must cover hospitalization, surgery, medications, prostheses, and medical supplies.
  • If your case is approved, you may be entitled to two-thirds of your normal pay if your absence exceeds seven days.

As you can see, submitting a claim immediately is wise. Also, if you have scars visible from eight feet or more, you may be entitled to extra compensation.

Why Does FedEx driver Have Such a High Risk of Dog Attacks?

Anybody who works for DHL or FedEx is well aware that violent dogs should be approached with caution. Many of these delivery personnel are also mindful that a lovely dog may become violent at any time. 

The issue is that many of these animals are very territorial, and they see the courier as a danger. With the high volume of dogs that anybody in this profession comes into contact with daily, it’s unsurprising that so many delivery couriers get bitten each year. 

If you’ve been bitten, get assistance from an expert dog bite attorney.