A dog attack can happen suddenly and leave lasting physical and emotional scars. Whether you were bitten while walking in your Hilton Head neighborhood, visiting someone’s property, or exploring one of the island’s parks or trails, you may be entitled to compensation. Dog owners have a legal responsibility to keep their animals under control, and when they fail to do so, they should be held accountable.
At Ted Law Firm, we represent dog bite victims throughout Hilton Head, Bluffton, and Beaufort County. We help you understand your legal rights, navigate the insurance process, and fight for the full financial recovery you deserve.
South Carolina Dog Bite Law: What You Need to Know
Unlike some states, South Carolina follows a strict liability rule for dog bites. That means dog owners can be held responsible for injuries even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. If you were lawfully on public or private property when the attack occurred, the owner may be liable regardless of the dog’s history.
You do not need to prove that the owner was negligent you only need to show:
- The dog bit or attacked you, and
- You were legally present at the location (not trespassing), and
- You did not provoke the dog
This law also applies to dog attacks that don’t involve a bite such as a dog knocking someone over and causing injury.
Common Injuries in Dog Bite Cases
Dog bites can cause serious physical harm and leave victims with permanent damage or disfigurement. Infections and trauma are also common especially in children and older adults, who are more vulnerable.
We frequently represent clients with:
- Deep puncture wounds and torn skin
- Nerve damage or muscle loss
- Infections such as rabies, tetanus, or MRSA
- Facial injuries and permanent scarring
- Broken bones from falls or impact
- Emotional trauma, anxiety, or PTSD
- Wrongful death in rare fatal attacks
We work closely with your medical team and, when needed, plastic surgeons and therapists to build a complete picture of the impact.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
In most cases, the dog’s owner is legally responsible. However, there may be other liable parties depending on the circumstances of the attack.
This could include:
- A landlord who knew about a dangerous animal on the property
- A dog sitter, walker, or kennel that allowed the dog to roam
- A homeowner where the dog was kept without proper fencing or restraint
- An insurance company that provides liability coverage for the property
We investigate all possible sources of liability and insurance coverage to pursue maximum compensation.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Dog bite victims may be entitled to a wide range of damages depending on the severity of the injuries and the long-term impact.
This may include:
- Medical bills and emergency room costs
- Follow-up surgery, wound care, and physical therapy
- Lost wages and future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and psychological counseling
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
- Funeral expenses in fatal attack cases
We calculate the true cost of your recovery, not just what the insurance company initially offers.
How We Help Injury Victims
At Ted Law Firm, we understand that a dog bite is more than just a physical injury, it’s a traumatic event that can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. We handle every part of your legal claim so you can focus on healing.
Our team will:
- Investigate the dog’s history and ownership
- File claims with the appropriate insurance providers
- Collect medical records and witness statements
- Negotiate for a full and fair settlement
- Take your case to court if necessary
You don’t have to face the legal system, or the insurance company on your own.
Don’t Wait to File Your Claim
In South Carolina, you generally have three years from the date of the attack to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, evidence disappears fast especially when the dog owner tries to avoid responsibility.
The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can protect your rights.
Talk to a Hilton Head Dog Bite Lawyer Today
If you were injured in a dog attack, you deserve accountability, financial recovery, and peace of mind. Let us help you take the next step toward justice.
Call Ted Law Firm today for a free consultation. We proudly serve clients across all of South Carolina and Georgia including Charleston, Greenville, Columbia, Myrtle Beach, and Atlanta, and beyond, we offer trusted, compassionate representation with no fees unless we win your case.
You’re in caring, capable hands with Ted Law Firm.
