South Carolina Dog Bite Laws Explained

A family goes for a walk through Glencairn Garden, enjoying the flowers and the fresh air. A jogger runs down the trails at Cherry Park. They do not expect a neighbor’s dog to break loose from a leash. They do not expect a friendly-looking pet to suddenly snap. But dog attacks happen frequently in Rock Hill, turning a peaceful afternoon into a medical emergency. The shock of being bitten is often followed by confusion about who is responsible for the medical bills.

Many people believe that if a dog has never bitten anyone before, the owner gets a “free pass.” This is a myth in our state. The Law Offices of Wilkerson Jones and Wilkerson wants victims to know that the law is on their side. This guide explains the specific dog bite laws in South Carolina and how they protect you after an attack.

How Do South Carolina Dog Bite Laws Work?

“South Carolina follows a doctrine of Strict Liability. This means that a dog owner is liable for the damages suffered by any person who is bitten or otherwise attacked by the dog while the person is in a public place or lawfully in a private place. The victim does not need to prove the owner was negligent.”

This statute (S.C. Code § 47-3-110) simplifies the legal process for victims. Unlike a car accident case where you must prove the other driver was careless, in a dog bite case, the ownership of the dog is often enough to establish liability. If you own the dog, and the dog bites someone, you are generally responsible.

Does South Carolina Have a “One-Bite Rule”?

No. Some states follow a “one-bite rule,” which means an owner is only responsible if they knew the dog was dangerous, usually because it had bitten someone before. South Carolina rejects this rule entirely.

It does not matter if the dog has been a perfect angel for ten years. It does not matter if the owner says, “He wouldn’t hurt a fly.” If that dog causes an injury today, the dog bite laws in South Carolina hold the owner accountable immediately. The first bite is not free; the first bite counts.

Are There Exceptions to Strict Liability?

While the law is strict, there are two primary defenses that a dog owner might try to use to avoid paying for injuries.

• Trespassing: The strict liability rule only applies if the victim was in a public place or “lawfully in a private place.” If a person hops a fence into a locked backyard to take a shortcut and gets bitten, the owner may not be liable.
• Provocation: If the victim teased, tormented, or abused the dog, causing it to attack, the owner is not responsible. However, this is hard to prove against young children, who may not understand how to interact with animals.

What Should I Do After a Dog Attack in Rock Hill?

Taking the right steps immediately after an attack can significantly strengthen a legal claim under dog bite laws.

1. Seek Medical Attention: Go to Piedmont Medical Center or an urgent care facility. Dog bites have a high risk of infection, and you need official records of the injury.
2. Identify the Dog and Owner: Get the owner’s name and address. If they flee, try to get a photo of the dog.
3. Report to Animal Control: Contact York County Animal Control. They need to verify if the dog is up to date on rabies vaccinations. An official report creates a paper trail.
4. Document Everything: Take photos of your injuries before they are bandaged. Take photos of torn clothing.

A Human Perspective on Dog Attacks

The damage from a dog attack is rarely just physical. While the scars and nerve damage are painful, the emotional toll is heavy. Children who are bitten often develop a lifelong fear of dogs (cynophobia) or suffer from nightmares. Adults may feel anxiety when walking in their own neighborhoods.

Experts say that acknowledging this trauma is part of the healing process. When seeking compensation, it is not just about the stitches; it is about the therapy needed to feel safe again. Every person deserves to walk down the street in Rock Hill without fear of being attacked.

Why Experience Matters in Rock Hill

The Law Offices of Wilkerson Jones and Wilkerson knows that these cases can be sensitive, especially when the dog belongs to a neighbor or friend. We handle these claims with professionalism, focusing on the insurance companies rather than personal conflicts. We understand the local ordinances in York County regarding leash laws and dangerous animals.

A person should not have to pay for a mistake that a dog owner made. If an owner failed to control their pet, their homeowner’s insurance should cover the damages. Rock Hill is a pet-friendly city, but safety must always come first.

Injured by a Dog? Get a Professional Case Review in Rock Hill.

FAQs

Can I sue if the dog was on a leash?

Yes. Even if the owner was following leash laws, they are still strictly liable if the dog bites you. A leash does not excuse the injury.

Does homeowner’s insurance cover dog bites?

Typically, yes. Most personal injury claims for dog bites are paid by the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy, not out of their personal bank account.

What if the victim was a child?

Claims involving children are treated with special care. The settlement often needs court approval to ensure the money is protected for the child’s future needs, including plastic surgery for scarring.

Can a landlord be held liable for a tenant’s dog?

Sometimes. If the landlord knew a dangerous dog was on the property and had the power to remove it but did not, they might share some liability, though this is harder to prove than owner liability.

How long do I have to file a claim?

In South Carolina, the statute of limitations is generally three years from the date of the attack. However, waiting makes it harder to gather evidence.

Free case review: Call us or send a message to start a confidential consultation today.