Columbia Dog Bite Attorney

Ready to Hold the Dog Owner Accountable

A dog attack can be terrifying and life-changing. Victims often suffer serious physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial stress due to medical bills and missed work. If a dog has bitten you or your loved one, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, our Columbia dog bite lawyers are committed to helping victims hold negligent dog owners accountable and recover the financial support they deserve.

To schedule a free consultation, call (803) 599-2207 or contact us online today.

South Carolina Dog Bite Law

Dog bite laws vary from state to state, and in South Carolina, victims benefit from a strict liability rule. Under South Carolina Code § 47-3-110, a dog owner can be held liable if:

1. Their dog bites or otherwise attacks another person, and
2. The victim was lawfully in a public or private place at the time of the incident, and
3. The victim did not provoke the dog.

This means that, unlike in some states, a dog bite victim in South Carolina does not have to prove the dog owner knew the dog was dangerous. Even if the dog has never shown aggression before, the owner can still be held financially responsible.

However, there are exceptions. If the victim provoked the dog, trespassed, or committed a crime at the time of the bite, the dog owner may not be liable. Our Columbia dog bite lawyer can help evaluate the circumstances of your case and determine the best path forward.

Recovering Compensation After a Dog Bite in SC

A dog bite can lead to far more than a simple scratch. Victims often face:

• Puncture wounds and lacerations
• Nerve damage
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Infections
• Psychological trauma, including PTSD

Because the consequences can be long-lasting, dog bite claims may include several types of damages, such as:

• Medical Expenses: Emergency room visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, medication, and follow-up care are all recoverable damages.
• Lost Wages: If you missed work while recovering, or if your injuries reduce your ability to earn in the future, you may claim lost income and loss of earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Dog bite injuries often cause severe pain, emotional distress, and long-term anxiety around dogs. These non-economic damages are just as real as financial losses.
• Scarring and Disfigurement: Permanent scars, especially on visible areas like the face or hands, may justify additional compensation.
• Punitive Damages: In rare cases where the dog owner acted with gross negligence, punitive damages may apply to punish reckless behavior.

At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, we work closely with medical professionals, financial experts, and investigators to calculate the full extent of your damages and pursue the maximum compensation available.

Why Hire a Columbia Dog Bite Attorney?

Dog bite cases can be more complicated than they seem. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, claiming the victim provoked the dog or that the injuries are not as serious as reported. A knowledgeable attorney can:

• Investigate the circumstances of the bite
• Collect medical records, witness statements, and expert testimony
• Negotiate aggressively with insurance adjusters
• File a lawsuit if a fair settlement cannot be reached

Our team at Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC has the skills and experience to stand up to insurers and pursue justice for dog bite victims in Columbia and throughout South Carolina.

Dog Bite Claim FAQs

How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including dog bites, is generally three years from the date of the injury. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to recover compensation.

What if the dog belonged to a friend or family member?

Many victims hesitate to pursue claims when the dog’s owner is someone they know. In most cases, compensation comes from the owner’s homeowner’s insurance or renter’s insurance, not directly from their pocket.

What if a child was bitten by a dog?

Children are especially vulnerable to dog bites, and the physical and emotional harm can be severe. South Carolina’s dog bite laws protect children the same as adults, and parents can pursue claims on their behalf.

What if I was working when I was bitten?

If you were bitten while working—such as delivering packages or performing home services—you may have both a workers’ compensation claim and a personal injury claim against the dog’s owner.

Do I need an attorney for a dog bite claim?

While you can technically file a claim without a lawyer, insurance companies often pressure victims into accepting low settlements. Having an experienced Columbia dog bite attorney gives you the best chance at securing full and fair compensation.

Speak With a Columbia Dog Bite Lawyer Today

If you or your loved one suffered injuries in a dog attack, don’t wait to get the legal guidance you need. At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of dog bite victims in Columbia and throughout South Carolina. We offer compassionate, personalized legal representation and will fight tirelessly for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Contact our Columbia dog bite attorneys today by calling (803) 599-2207.