Dog bites can cause serious physical and emotional trauma. If you or your child was attacked by a dog in Columbia, Lexington, or anywhere in Richland County, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and more.
At Ted Law Firm, we represent dog bite victims across South Carolina. We know how to hold negligent dog owners accountable, and we handle the legal process so you can focus on healing.
South Carolina Dog Bite Laws: What You Need to Know
South Carolina follows a strict liability rule for dog bites. This means the dog’s owner can be held responsible for any injuries the dog causes even if the dog has never bitten before.
You may have a claim if:
- The bite or attack happened in a public place, or while you were legally on private property
- You didn’t provoke the dog
You don’t need to prove the dog was dangerous just that the attack happened and caused injury.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog attacks often result in serious injuries, especially in children. These injuries can lead to infection, permanent scarring, or emotional trauma.
We represent victims with:
- Puncture wounds and torn skin
- Infections (including rabies or tetanus)
- Nerve damage or muscle tears
- Broken bones or crushed tissue
- Facial injuries or disfigurement
- Post-traumatic stress and anxiety
- Fatal injuries (wrongful death)
We work with your medical providers to fully document the physical and emotional impact of the attack.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
If you’ve been injured in a dog attack, you may be eligible for compensation to cover:
- Emergency room visits and follow-up care
- Surgery and plastic or reconstructive procedures
- Prescription medications and medical supplies
- Lost wages and reduced earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma or PTSD
- Permanent scarring or disability
- Funeral costs (for fatal attacks)
We calculate the full cost of your injury not just what the insurance company offers.
Who’s Liable in a Dog Bite Case?
The most common defendant in a dog bite claim is the dog owner. However, others may also be responsible, such as:
- Landlords who allowed a known dangerous dog on the property
- Dog sitters, handlers, or kennels who failed to control the animal
- Homeowners or renters insurance companies (most policies cover dog bite liability)
We investigate your case and identify all available sources of compensation.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
- Seek medical attention immediately, even for minor wounds.
- Report the bite to Columbia Animal Control or law enforcement.
- Get the dog owner’s information, including their address and insurance.
- Document your injuries with photos and keep all medical records.
- Contact a lawyer before speaking with any insurance adjusters.
The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can protect your rights and start building your case.
Talk to a Columbia Dog Bite Lawyer Today
Dog bite injuries are painful, and the legal process doesn’t have to add more stress. Let us handle the insurance company while you focus on recovery. Call Ted Law Firm today for a free consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we win your case. Contact us today for a free consultation, or stop by one of our conveniently located South Carolina offices in Charleston, Greenville, Columbia, Aiken, or Mrtyle Beach so we can discuss your case face-to-face. Remember, you pay nothing unless we win your case, so there is no harm in scheduling a free consultation. You’re in good hands with Ted Law Firm.
