Dog Bite Lawyer in South Carolina
Bitten or Attacked by a Dog?
You have rights under South Carolina law.
Dog bites and animal attacks can lead to serious injuries—and just as often, serious emotional trauma. In South Carolina, pet owners are responsible for keeping others safe from their animals, even if the dog had never bitten before. If you’ve been attacked by someone else’s pet, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, scarring, lost work, or ongoing therapy. At The Brown Law Firm, we help victims across South Carolina hold negligent pet owners accountable. Whether you were bitten in a neighbor’s yard, a public space, or while working, we’ll help you take the next step forward.
Animal Attack Claims Across South Carolina
Common types of dog bite and attack cases.
We represent people across South Carolina who have been injured by:
Dog Bites on Private Property
Even if you’re invited onto someone’s property, the owner is still responsible for their pet’s behavior under SC’s strict liability laws.
Unleashed or Roaming Dogs in Public
Dog owners must maintain control of their animals in public parks, sidewalks, and neighborhoods.
Injuries to Children
Kids are especially vulnerable to dog attacks, often suffering bites to the face, head, and neck.
Dog Attacks on Workers
Mail carriers, delivery drivers, landscapers, and others injured on the job by dogs can pursue both personal injury and workers’ comp claims.
Attacks Causing Infection or Scarring
Beyond the initial injury, many victims suffer infections, permanent scarring, or need plastic surgery or counseling.
What You Should Know About Dog Bites in SC
South Carolina holds owners accountable.
Dog bites fall under strict liability law in South Carolina, which means:
You don’t need to prove the dog was dangerous
Even if it was the animal’s first bite, the owner may still be responsible.
Where it happened matters
You must have been lawfully present at the location (not trespassing) for the law to apply.
The injuries can be long-term
Scarring, nerve damage, and emotional trauma are common. A proper legal claim can help you afford full care and recovery.
Dog Bite FAQs in South Carolina
What to do after an animal attack.
If you’ve been injured by a dog or other animal, here are answers to common questions we hear from South Carolina clients:
Can I sue if I was bitten by a dog in South Carolina?
Yes. South Carolina has a strict liability law for dog bites, which means the dog’s owner is typically responsible, even if the dog had no prior history of aggression. As long as you were lawfully on the property when the bite occurred, you may have a valid claim. This law protects victims and encourages responsible pet ownership.
What if the dog had never bitten anyone before?
That doesn’t matter in South Carolina. The state does not follow the “one-bite” rule used in some other places. A dog owner can be held liable for a first-time bite if the victim was injured and legally present. The goal is to protect the public and ensure dangerous situations are taken seriously, even without prior warning signs.
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in South Carolina?
You have three years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury claim. However, starting sooner is always better, especially when dealing with medical care, witnesses, or photographic evidence. If the attack involved a child, additional time may apply, but early action is always safer.
What damages can I recover in a dog bite case?
Victims of dog bites can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, disfigurement, and long-term therapy or emotional trauma. Some cases also involve claims for plastic surgery or PTSD counseling. If the attack was especially vicious or involved prior negligence, punitive damages may also be possible.
Should I report the dog bite to animal control or the police?
Yes. Reporting the incident creates an official record and may prompt an investigation into the animal’s behavior or owner’s responsibility. It also helps support your legal claim. In South Carolina, animal control or local law enforcement may also track dangerous animals to prevent future harm.