SC Dog Bite Lawyer Mount Pleasant

Mount Pleasant, SC Dog Bite Lawyer

Bitten by a dog in Mount Pleasant or anywhere in South Carolina? The Arndt Law Firm can help victims recover fair compensation. Call (843) 469-8777 today to speak with an experienced Mount Pleasant, SC dog bite lawyer.

Dog bites occur in Mount Pleasant and across Charleston County, and reported animal-bite cases appear in county animal control and public health records. Mount Pleasant residents know the community’s parks and trails are central to daily life.

Families walk along the Pitt Street Bridge, jog near Shem Creek, and visit Memorial Waterfront Park with their pets. These areas, while beautiful, often become scenes of unexpected dog-related injuries when pet owners let their guard down.

Dog bites can cause lasting harm to victims and their families.
Legal action can help recover costs and hold owners accountable.

A dog bite can lead to more than a trip to the emergency room. Victims often need stitches, antibiotics, and follow-up care for infections. Severe bites can cause nerve damage, disfigurement, or long-term scarring, sometimes requiring reconstructive surgery. Beyond physical pain, victims often face emotional struggles such as fear of animals, sleep problems, or anxiety around pets.

The Arndt Law Firm understands that a dog bite injury affects every part of a victim’s life, from health to confidence to financial stability. The firm’s Mount Pleasant, SC dog bite lawyer has represented victims across these familiar spaces, helping them recover from injuries and regain a sense of safety.

Understanding how these cases work helps victims take the right steps. Seek immediate medical attention, and report the bite to the county health department (required under S.C. law) and local animal control or law enforcement so that the animal can be investigated or quarantined. Keeping photos, medical records, and witness names helps preserve evidence for health and legal purposes.

Jonathan Arndt can help clients gather records, photographs, and witness statements to build a complete picture of what happened.

Many people hesitate to take legal action, especially when the dog belongs to a neighbor or friend. But medical care, therapy, and lost time from work can quickly become overwhelming. Attorneys handle these cases with care and discretion, working to achieve fair outcomes without creating unnecessary conflict. The focus remains on helping clients recover financially and emotionally while ensuring that negligent owners take responsibility.

Dog bite victims often underestimate the long-term impact of their injuries.

Minor bites can lead to infections or scars that affect self-esteem and confidence.
Children bitten at a young age may carry emotional trauma into adulthood.

Dog bite injuries can disrupt daily life, but victims do not have to face the aftermath alone. Professional guidance and support are available to navigate recovery and the legal process.

The Arndt Law Firm can work closely with doctors, psychologists, and other medical experts to calculate the full cost of recovery. By combining strong legal advocacy with genuine care for the Mount Pleasant community, legal representatives help victims rebuild their health, confidence, and peace of mind after a dog bite.

Dog Bite Statistics and Trends in South Carolina

South Carolina’s growing communities, including Mount Pleasant, Charleston, and the surrounding Lowcountry, are known for their pet-friendliness. But with more dogs in shared spaces, bites remain a consistent public safety concern.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, an estimated 4.5 million dog bites occur nationwide each year, and about 800,000 victims require medical care. South Carolina follows similar patterns, with incidents reported in both rural and urban areas.

The U.S. Postal Service recorded more than 5,800 dog attacks on postal workers nationwide in 2023, including 24 in South Carolina. This shows that even everyday routes and neighborhoods can pose risks when pets are not properly restrained.

From 2005 to 2020, the state recorded about 16 fatal dog attacks, averaging roughly one death per year. This is a rate consistent with the national average.

CDC injury data indicate that nearly:

46% of bites involve the arm or hand
26% affect the leg or foot
23% impact the head or neck

These injuries often require medical care, and upper-body bites in particular can lead to nerve damage, scarring, or disfigurement.

Common Breeds and Contributing Factors

In 2019, state-level data reported by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (as quoted in news reports and public records summaries) showed 7,499 dog-bite incidents where the dog’s breed was known.

Pit bull and pit bull-type dogs accounted for about 2,433 bites (one-third of the total).
Labrador retrievers followed at 833 bites.
German shepherds ranked third.

While breed alone does not determine aggression, the data reflect how size, strength, and training influence injury severity. Many Mount Pleasant and Charleston-area bites occur when dogs are off-leash, improperly confined, or poorly socialized around children or strangers.

Public Health and Rabies Considerations

In South Carolina, animal rabies remains a public health concern: state data show an average of about 144 confirmed rabid animals each year, and among those, approximately 2% are domestic dogs.

Although rabies in domestic dogs is rare, state law requires that any person bitten by a pet or other animal report the incident to the county health department, and that animals that bite or attack may be subject to quarantine or testing under the Rabies Control Act.

Because rabies is nearly always fatal if not treated promptly, victims may require post-exposure rabies treatment, adding both cost and stress.

Financial and Legal Impact

Dog bite injuries carry significant financial consequences. Insurance data show that:

In 2016, a report cited South Carolina ranking 19th nationwide for dog bite claim frequency.
The average settlement for a dog bite claim in the state was around $25,000, though severe cases involving scarring or permanent disfigurement can result in much higher awards.

Beyond medical expenses, victims often face lost income, emotional trauma, and long-term rehabilitation costs.

What the Data Mean for Mount Pleasant Residents

For Mount Pleasant families, these statistics reflect real community risks. The area’s rapid development, active outdoor lifestyle, and popularity of dog-friendly spaces like Pitt Street Bridge and Palmetto Islands County Park increase daily interactions between people and pets.

A few things to keep in mind for residents:

Dog bites are common and preventable with responsible ownership and community awareness.
Children and delivery workers are among the most frequent victims.
Awareness of leash laws, proper training, and public safety reporting can significantly reduce risk.

Understanding these patterns helps residents take precautions and underscores why legal support matters when preventable incidents occur.

Common Dog Bite Injuries and Their Long-Term Effects

Dog bites can cause far more than surface wounds. Many victims in Mount Pleasant deal with lasting pain, medical costs, and emotional trauma long after the initial attack. These injuries vary depending on the dog’s size, strength, and the affected body area. Some heal in weeks, while others change lives forever.

Dog bite injuries often include physical damage and emotional trauma.
Some effects last months or years without proper treatment and care.

Understanding the full scope of these injuries helps victims and their personal injury attorney pursue compensation that truly covers the victim’s recovery, not just the medical bills from the first visit.

Physical Injuries

Dog bites can cause deep puncture wounds, torn tissue, and broken bones. Even a single bite can lead to severe infection if bacteria enter the bloodstream. The medical treatment may include stitches, surgery, or antibiotics to prevent complications. MUSC Health, East Cooper Medical Center, or urgent care clinics along Coleman Boulevard and Johnnie Dodds Boulevard provide emergency care and treatment for dog bites to victims in the area.

Severe bites can cause nerve damage or scarring, especially when the dog attacks the face, arms, or legs. Children are particularly at risk because dogs often bite at their height level, leading to facial injuries that require plastic surgery. Guidance and support are available to address how these physical scars can profoundly affect a person’s confidence, social life, and overall well-being.

In extreme cases, large dogs can knock victims to the ground, causing broken bones, concussions, or back injuries. These conditions take months of recovery and physical therapy. For victims who work in physically demanding jobs, such as construction or healthcare, this downtime can also lead to lost income and stress about paying bills.

Infections and Complications

Dog bites carry a high risk of infection. Even a small wound can introduce harmful bacteria, such as Pasteurella or Staphylococcus, into the body. In South Carolina, doctors also check for rabies, a deadly disease that spreads through animal saliva. When a dog’s vaccination record is unknown or out of date, victims must undergo a painful and expensive rabies treatment series.

Infection symptoms such as swelling, fever, or redness can appear days after the attack. Without quick medical attention, these infections can spread and cause long-term damage. Support is available to help victims gather medical reports and expert opinions, documenting how these infections affect recovery and long-term health.

Emotional and Psychological Trauma

Dog bite victims often face emotional wounds that are just as serious as the physical ones. Anxiety, nightmares, and fear of animals are common after an attack. Some victims, especially children, develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and may need therapy to feel safe again.

Victims often relive the attack when they see dogs in public places like Patriots Point, Shem Creek Park, or even their own neighborhoods. These reactions can affect their ability to enjoy outdoor activities, socialize, or go for walks, which are a big part of life in Mount Pleasant.

Emotional trauma deserves the same attention as physical injuries. Recovery efforts should address therapy costs, counseling, and any effects on a person’s quality of life.

Long-Term Effects

Long-term effects from dog bites can last for years. Deep scars may require several surgeries, while nerve damage can cause numbness or chronic pain. In cases involving children, scarring or emotional trauma can also affect their development and confidence.

Victims who can’t return to work immediately often face financial strain. Guidance is available to help recover lost wages and address potential future income loss if injuries limit job opportunities. The goal is always to ensure clients receive the support they need to fully rebuild their lives.

Dog bites are traumatic events that leave a lasting mark, both physically and emotionally. Medical professionals, counselors, and financial specialists can help document the full impact of these injuries.

A skilled Mount Pleasant, SC dog bite lawyer who understands every layer of harm, from the emergency room to emotional recovery, can build a comprehensive case that reflects the actual consequences of a dog bite injury.

What to Do After a Dog Bite in Mount Pleasant

A dog bite can happen fast, and the shock can make it hard to think clearly. Knowing what to do right after the attack protects both health and legal rights—each decision in those first few hours matters. Getting medical care, reporting the incident, and gathering information can make a big difference when filing a claim later.

Dog bites in Mount Pleasant often happen in familiar places, such as walking along Coleman Boulevard, playing in Alhambra Hall Park, or visiting friends in neighborhoods like Belle Hall or Dunes West. No matter where the bite occurs, the same steps help victims stay safe and protect their ability to seek compensation.

Quick action after a bite protects health and strengthens the claim.
Documenting every detail helps prove what happened and who is responsible.e

The first and most crucial step is to get medical help right away. Even minor bites can lead to serious infections, so victims should visit hospitals or urgent care clinics as soon as possible. A doctor can clean the wound, give antibiotics, and check for signs of rabies or tetanus. Medical records from these visits also serve as valuable proof of injury for any legal claim.

After receiving treatment, victims can report the attack to the county health department, Charleston County Animal Control, or the Mount Pleasant Police Department. Reporting helps authorities identify the dog and confirm its vaccination status. It also creates an official record that supports the victim’s case.

The Arndt Law Firm may use these reports to show the dog’s history, past complaints, or leash law violations.

Next, gathering evidence is key. If possible, victims may need to take photos of their injuries, the location of the attack, and the dog. These photos show the severity of the injuries and help track their healing over time. Witnesses also play a significant role. Anyone who saw the bite or observed the dog’s behavior can provide statements supporting the claim.

It’s also smart to collect the dog owner’s contact information and, if possible, ask for proof of vaccination. Many owners in Mount Pleasant cooperate right away, but others may not. If the owner refuses, victims can let animal control handle the communication to avoid confrontation.

Once the situation feels safe, victims must keep copies of all medical bills, prescriptions, and work-related documents. These records show the financial impact of the attack, from emergency care to missed days on the job. Guidance is available to help clients organize these documents so no detail gets lost.

Another helpful step is to write down everything that happened while it’s still fresh in memory. The date, time, weather, and even what the dog looked like can make a difference later. Victims often forget small but essential details over time, so keeping notes helps maintain accuracy when filing the claim.

Additionally, it’s better not to discuss the case with the dog owner’s insurance company without legal support. Insurance adjusters may try to minimize payouts or twist statements to reduce liability. All communications with insurers can be handled on the client’s behalf, protecting them from pressure or confusion.

Victims may also avoid posting about the attack on social media. Even innocent comments or photos can be taken out of context and used against them in negotiations. The safest option is to let the legal team manage all communication until the case resolves.

In Mount Pleasant, local leash laws and homeowner’s insurance policies can significantly affect how claims progress. Experienced Mount Pleasant, SC dog bite lawyers understand these rules and use them to hold negligent owners accountable. Whether the attack happened at a public park or a neighbor’s yard, the team knows how to build a strong case from the ground up.

After a dog bite, victims deserve both recovery and justice. Taking the proper steps right away —seeking care, reporting, documenting, and obtaining legal guidance —gives them the best chance for a fair outcome. Clients are guided through every step, allowing them to focus on healing while the case is managed efficiently.

South Carolina Dog Bite Laws Explained

When a dog attack happens in Mount Pleasant or anywhere in South Carolina, knowing the law helps victims understand their rights. The state's dog bite laws are designed to protect people from injuries caused by negligent pet owners.

South Carolina law holds dog owners strictly liable.
Victims usually have three years to file a claim for injuries.

Unlike some states that follow a “one-bite rule,” South Carolina uses a strict liability law. That means owners are responsible the first time their dog bites someone, even if the dog never acted aggressively before.

This rule is clear: dog owners must keep their pets under control at all times. If a dog bites someone in a public place or if the victim had permission to be on private property, the owner is liable for the injuries. It does not matter whether the dog showed signs of danger before. The focus stays on the victim’s right to safety, not the owner’s intent.

Filing a Dog Bite Claim in South Carolina

The main law governing these cases is South Carolina Code § 47-3-110. It says that a dog’s owner or keeper is legally responsible if the dog bites or attacks someone without provocation. For example, if someone gets bitten while jogging along Coleman Boulevard or walking through Memorial Waterfront Park, that person can pursue compensation from the dog’s owner. The only exceptions are when the victim provoked the dog, committed a crime, or trespassed on private property.

Victims also need to consider the statute of limitations. In South Carolina, people generally have three years from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline can prevent recovery, even if the case is strong.

That’s why early legal help makes such a difference. The Arndt Law Firm can ensure that all paperwork, evidence, and filings meet state deadlines and court requirements.

Comparative Negligence in Dog Bite Cases

Under this law, if the victim shares some of the blame —for example, by teasing the dog or ignoring warning signs —their compensation can be reduced by their percentage of fault. However, as long as the victim’s share of fault is less than 51%, they can still recover damages.

The Role of Leash Laws

Leash laws play a key role in many dog bite cases. Charleston County and the Town of Mount Pleasant both require dogs to stay leashed in public spaces. When an owner ignores these laws, that violation often helps prove negligence.

Many incidents occur in open community areas such as Shem Creek Park, Old Village, or the walking paths near Rivertowne, where owners allow dogs to roam off-leash. Guidance and representation are provided to use local ordinances in building cases that highlight how preventable most attacks truly are.

Purpose of South Carolina’s Liability Rule

South Carolina’s strict liability rule reflects a simple principle: people deserve to feel safe in their neighborhoods. Pet owners have a duty to keep their animals from harming others. When they fail to do so, the law ensures that victims can recover the costs of medical care, therapy, lost income, and emotional pain.

Handing Claims Against Neighbors and Acquaintances

Dog bite victims in Mount Pleasant often feel unsure about pursuing legal action, especially if the owner is a neighbor or acquaintance. However, most claims are paid through homeowners’ insurance rather than out of pocket. This means victims can receive support without directly burdening the pet owner.

Advantages of Knowledgeable Legal Representation

Knowledge of local and state laws gives representation an advantage when assisting injured clients. From understanding Charleston County’s reporting requirements to navigating insurance policies, experience guides victims through each step.

A Mount Pleasant, SC, dog bite lawyer familiar with South Carolina courts and local judges helps move cases forward efficiently and protects clients’ rights.

Proving Liability After a Dog Bite in Mount Pleasant

After a dog bite, the next step is proving who is responsible. In Mount Pleasant and across South Carolina, victims must show that the dog’s owner failed to control their animal. While South Carolina law makes owners strictly liable, gathering the proper evidence helps build a stronger, faster, and more successful claim.

Dog bite cases depend on facts. Each detail is carefully investigated to determine what happened, where it happened, and who caused the harm. Every photo, witness statement, and medical record tells part of the story. Proving liability is not only about showing that a dog bit someone, it’s about connecting the dots to show that the owner’s actions, or lack of action, led to the attack.

Strong evidence proves responsibility and supports fair compensation.
Local knowledge helps uncover key details about the incident.

Jonathan Arndt and his team understand that no two dog bite cases are the same. A bite in a crowded park has different challenges than one on private property. For example, an attack along Shem Creek Boardwalk may involve leash law violations, while one in a gated neighborhood like Dunes West may depend on security footage or eyewitness accounts.

The Arndt Law Firm may use these details to build a case that leaves no room for doubt.

Gathering Key Evidence in Dog Bite Cases

The most crucial piece of evidence is medical documentation. Doctors’ notes, hospital records, and photos of the wounds help link the injury directly to the attack. In many Mount Pleasant cases, victims usually receive treatment at MUSC Health, Roper St. Francis Mount Pleasant Hospital, or urgent care centers in Belle Hall or Towne Center. Our firm can assist clients in gathering and organizing these records to show the full extent of their injuries.

Witness statements also play a crucial role. People who saw the dog attack can describe what the owner did, or failed to do, before and after the bite. Investigators often speak with neighbors, park visitors, and even postal workers who might have known the dog’s behavior or history. These details can indicate whether the owner ignored warning signs or violated local leash laws.

Another key part of proving liability comes from animal control and police reports. When a dog bite occurs, victims can immediately report the incident to Charleston County Animal Control or the Mount Pleasant Police Department. These agencies record essential details such as vaccination status, past complaints, and the dog’s owner information. The legal team can collaborate with these departments to ensure every report supports the client’s case.

Sometimes, proving liability also requires expert assistance. Veterinarians or animal behavior specialists can clarify whether the dog showed signs of aggression or if the owner’s handling increased the danger. In some cases, security camera footage or smartphone videos capture the attack or show that the owner ignored leash laws. All available evidence is reviewed carefully to present a clear and convincing case.

The Role of Local Laws in Dog Bite Cases

Mount Pleasant requires that dogs remain leashed in public areas and under control on private property. When owners allow dogs to roam freely in neighborhoods like Old Village, Brickyard Plantation, or Rivertowne, that violation helps establish negligence.

Jonathan Arndt’s familiarity with local ordinances may give clients an advantage in proving fault and achieving fair results.

Proving liability takes time, evidence, and experience. The Arndt Law Firm’s team can use its deep understanding of South Carolina dog bite law and Mount Pleasant’s local rules to build solid cases from the ground up. By gathering strong evidence, coordinating with experts, and communicating with insurers, the firm can help victims prove responsibility and recover the compensation they deserve.

Compensation Available for Dog Bite Victims in South Carolina

In South Carolina, victims have the right to seek compensation for the harm caused by a careless dog owner. Fair compensation covers much more than the immediate medical bills. It helps victims recover the full cost of what they’ve lost and what they’ll continue to face.

Focus is placed on building claims that show every layer of damage, medical costs, pain, emotional distress, and long-term recovery. Understanding what compensation includes helps victims make informed choices and fight for what they truly deserve.

Victims can recover medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Long-term effects and emotional trauma also count toward total damages.

As mentioned earlier, South Carolina’s strict liability law makes owners responsible for injuries their dogs cause. That means victims don’t have to prove that the owner knew the dog was dangerous. They only need to show that the dog attacked without provocation and that they were legally in the place where the attack occurred. From that point, the claim focuses on how the injury affected the victim’s life.

Medical Expenses

The first and most obvious category of compensation covers medical expenses. This includes emergency care, hospital stays, surgery, and physical therapy. These bills add up quickly, especially when reconstructive surgery or long-term care is needed. An experienced Mount Pleasant, SC dog bite lawyer can collect and organize all these records to ensure no expense goes uncovered.

Lost Income and Future Earning Capacity

Lost income is another key form of compensation. Many victims can’t return to work right away because of pain, stitches, or therapy sessions. For example, someone who works in construction, childcare, or food service may need weeks or months to heal. If the injury limits their ability to perform the same job in the future, they can also claim loss of future earning capacity. The law firm can work with financial experts to calculate these losses.

Pain and Suffering

Dog bites also cause deep pain and suffering, which covers both physical pain and emotional distress. Scarring, anxiety, and loss of confidence can affect a victim’s daily life for years.

Children often face nightmares or a lasting fear of dogs.
Adults may struggle to enjoy activities they once loved, like walking along Shem Creek or visiting Patriots Point.

Legal representatives provide support to ensure that every case addresses these emotional injuries.

Property Damage

In addition to personal pain, victims may face property damage. Torn clothing, broken glasses, or damaged phones are often overlooked, but they can still be included in a claim. Even these smaller costs contribute to the overall harm caused by the attack.

Additional Damages in Extreme Cases

In rare but severe cases, such as when a dog is known to be aggressive and the owner ignores safety rules or past warnings, the victim may be able to seek additional compensation beyond normal damages. These cases don’t happen often and depend on the specific facts and legal history of each situation.

Role of Insurance in Dog Bite Claims

Most dog bite settlements come from homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policies, not the owner’s personal funds. This process helps victims get the support they need without creating direct conflict with neighbors or friends. The attorney can handle all communication with insurance companies on behalf of the victim, ensuring fair treatment.

Case Value and Individual Circumstances

Every dog bite case is different, and the value of each claim depends on the injury’s impact on the victim’s life. A small scar on the arm may lead to a shorter recovery, while facial injuries or deep emotional trauma can result in higher damages. Each situation is carefully reviewed to build a case that reflects both the immediate and lasting effects of the attack.

In Mount Pleasant, where community and family life matter deeply, fair outcomes can restore peace of mind. Victims deserve to move forward without fear of medical debt or lost income. Jonathan Arndt can handle cases with careful attention to state law and all relevant details, ensuring that justice and recovery go hand in hand.

Why Choose The Arndt Law Firm for a Dog Bite Case

After a dog bite, victims need more than just legal guidance: they need support from people who understand both the law and the community.

Deep knowledge of South Carolina injury law and local courts
Personal attention and a community-based approach to every case

Years of experience in personal injury law are combined with genuine care for Mount Pleasant residents. Focusing on each case ensures clients have the advantage of working with a team that knows how to pursue fair results while keeping the process personal and respectful.

Local Knowledge and Legal Skill

Mount Pleasant is not just where cases are handled: it’s home. Understanding local laws, courts, and neighborhoods where these attacks occur helps the team confidently manage cases. Whether an incident happened in Old Village, Rivertowne, Belle Hall, or Shem Creek, knowledge of local leash ordinances and safety rules can make the difference in proving liability.

Years of experience representing injured clients across South Carolina can provide a balanced, strategic approach. They work in settlement negotiations and courtroom litigation to guide victims, using their familiarity with insurance companies to secure fair outcomes for clients.

The firm’s legal experience extends to all dog bite claims, from minor injuries that heal quickly to severe attacks that cause lifelong scarring or trauma. Each case receives the same level of care and attention. Clients never feel rushed or unheard. Every call gets answered, every question gets explained, and every detail matters.

Personal Attention From Start to Finish

Large firms often treat cases like files on a shelf, but The Arndt Law Firm team takes a different approach. Clients receive personalized support from start to finish. The team may take time to understand how the attack has changed the client’s daily physical and emotional life. That understanding guides the strategy for every case.

The firm’s smaller size allows it to stay flexible and responsive. When clients need updates, they can speak directly with the people working on their case, not a call center or out-of-state office. This kind of personal service builds trust and reduces stress, especially when clients are still recovering.

Proven Results and Community Focus

Jonathan Arndt and his team achieve results through dedication, preparation, and local knowledge. They can build every case on solid evidence, medical records, and a thorough understanding of South Carolina injury law.

Many clients come through word of mouth, reflecting the trust the team builds across Charleston County. People recognize them for honesty, attention to detail, and thoughtful support for those affected by negligence. Whether a client needs help with medical bills, emotional recovery, or navigating insurance challenges, the team guides them every step of the way.

Injured by a Dog? A Mount Pleasant, SC Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help You Move Forward

A dog bite can turn a normal day into months of recovery, fear, and frustration. The pain goes beyond the physical wounds: it touches confidence, routines, and peace of mind. When that happens, victims need more than medical care. They need someone who can guide them through the legal process, protect their rights, and ensure they don’t carry the financial burden alone.

The impact of a dog bite can profoundly change someone’s life. Every step matters, from the first doctor’s visit to the final settlement. Healing takes time, and victims deserve space to focus on recovery while guidance is provided for the legal process.

The mission is simple: to make sure victims receive the care, support, and justice they deserve. Every case is handled with attention to detail and with the client’s well-being in mind.

Legal help gives victims the confidence to recover.
The Arndt Law Firm stands by clients every step of the way.

If you’re hurt by a dog bite in Mount Pleasant or anywhere in Charleston County, help is close by. Our team at Arndt Law Firm can provide legal support to give you the insight and direction you need to move forward, helping with your financial and emotional recovery.

Call (843) 469-8777 to schedule a consultation with a reliable Mount Pleasant, SC dog bite lawyer and start your path toward recovery.