Help for Dog Bite Victims in Charleston and South Carolina
A dog attack can be a frightening, life-changing event—especially for children. Dog bites often cause painful injuries, emotional trauma, and even lasting scars. At Jung Disability and Injury Advocates, we help victims and families get answers, medical care, and compensation after an attack, so you can focus on healing and moving forward.
What Is South Carolina’s Dog Bite Law?
South Carolina has a strict liability law for dog bites (SC Code § 47-3-110). This means the dog’s owner is responsible if their dog bites someone in a public place or when the victim is lawfully on private property—even if the dog never showed aggression before. Unlike some states, South Carolina does not have a “one bite rule.” Owners are usually liable unless the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing.
Local ordinances in Charleston and Mount Pleasant also require dogs to be leashed in public spaces. If a dog was off-leash and bit you, that is strong evidence of owner negligence.
Common Injuries and Long-Term Effects of Dog Bites
Children are among the most frequent and seriously injured victims of dog bites in South Carolina.
Dog attacks can result in:
Puncture wounds and lacerations
Nerve damage and infections
Scarring or need for cosmetic surgery
Broken bones (especially in children or elderly victims)
Psychological trauma, anxiety, or fear of dogs
How to File a Dog Bite Injury Claim
A dog bite claim in South Carolina typically involves:
- Proving you were bitten lawfully (not trespassing or provoking the dog)
- Seeking prompt medical attention and documenting all injuries
- Reporting the attack to local animal control and/or law enforcement
- Dealing with the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance (most policies cover dog bite liability)
- Calculating compensation for medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any permanent scarring or disfigurement
Our attorney handles negotiations, evidence gathering, and all communications with insurers and responsible parties.
Compensation for Dog Bite Injuries
Victims of dog bites in Charleston may be entitled to:
- Payment for medical bills (emergency care, surgery, infection treatment)
- Compensation for scarring, cosmetic procedures, or rehabilitation
- Lost wages if you miss work due to the injury
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Punitive damages in extreme cases of owner recklessness
If a dog attack was fatal, families may also have a wrongful death claim. See our
Wrongful Death page for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the dog bite law in South Carolina?
Strict liability—owners are usually responsible for injuries their dog causes, regardless of past behavior, unless the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing.
Can I sue if someone’s dog bit me in SC?
Yes, you can file a claim for compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, and suffering.
What if the dog that bit me was off-leash in public?
That is strong evidence of owner negligence, especially in cities like Charleston where leash laws are in effect.
Can a child recover damages for a dog bite?
Absolutely—children have the same legal rights as adults and are often awarded damages for medical costs and emotional trauma.
Is there a time limit to file a dog bite claim?
Yes, typically three years from the date of the attack, but acting quickly preserves evidence and strengthens your claim.
Related Premises Liability Claims
Dog bite injuries fall under premises liability law. If your injury was caused by a dangerous property condition rather than an animal, see our
Slip and Fall Accidents page for more information.