Dog bite injuries are far more serious than many people realize. A single bite from a medium or large breed dog can crush bone, sever tendons and nerves, cause deep puncture wounds that become infected, and leave permanent scars requiring multiple reconstructive surgeries. Children are especially vulnerable, as they are more likely to be bitten on the face, head, and neck.

Under South Carolina Code Section 47-3-110, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their dogs. This means you do not need to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous or that the owner was negligent. If a dog bites you in Charleston while you are in a public place or lawfully on private property, the owner is responsible for your damages.

At Crantford Meehan, we handle dog bite cases throughout the Charleston metropolitan area, including Mount Pleasant, West Ashley, James Island, Johns Island, North Charleston, Goose Creek, Hanahan, and Summerville. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial devastation that a serious dog attack causes, and we fight to make sure our clients receive every dollar they are owed.

Dog bite claims are typically covered by the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. These policies often have liability limits of $100,000 to $500,000 or more. However, insurance companies will aggressively try to minimize what they pay, especially in cases involving significant scarring or child victims. You need an attorney who knows how to document the full extent of your damages and fight for maximum compensation.

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Dog bite victims in Charleston are entitled to recover compensation for the full extent of their injuries and losses under South Carolina law.

Medical Expenses

Dog bite wounds frequently require emergency room treatment, surgical repair, wound debridement, IV antibiotics, tetanus and rabies vaccinations, plastic surgery, scar revision procedures, and ongoing physical therapy. We pursue compensation for all past and future medical care you will need.

Scarring and Disfigurement

Permanent scarring is one of the most significant damages in a dog bite case, particularly when the bite is to the face, hands, or other visible areas. We work with plastic surgeons to document the permanence of scarring and the cost of future treatment.

Emotional and Psychological Trauma

Dog attacks frequently cause lasting psychological harm including PTSD, severe anxiety around animals, nightmares, and phobias. Children are especially susceptible to long-term psychological effects. We retain mental health professionals to document these damages.

Lost Wages and Pain and Suffering

If your injuries keep you out of work or permanently affect your ability to perform your job, you are entitled to compensation for lost wages and diminished earning capacity, in addition to full compensation for your physical pain and emotional suffering.

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Crantford Meehan has successfully represented dog bite victims throughout the Charleston area, recovering significant compensation for clients who suffered severe injuries. Our attorneys understand the nuances of South Carolina’s strict liability dog bite statute and know how to maximize recovery from homeowner’s insurance policies.

We are particularly experienced in handling dog bite cases involving children, which require special attention to document the long-term physical and emotional impact. We work closely with pediatric specialists, child psychologists, and plastic surgeons to build comprehensive cases that account for every aspect of a child victim’s recovery.

If you or your child has been bitten by a dog in Charleston, take these critical steps:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Dog bites carry serious risk of infection including cellulitis and sepsis. Go to the emergency room for wound cleaning, antibiotics, and a tetanus booster. Follow up with specialists as needed and keep records of every medical visit.

2. Report the Bite to Charleston County Animal Control

Filing a report creates an official record, triggers an investigation to identify the dog and verify vaccination status, and provides valuable evidence for your claim.

3. Document Your Injuries Thoroughly

Take detailed photographs of your bite wounds immediately and at regular intervals throughout recovery. Document bruising, swelling, stitches, and scarring as it develops. This visual record is powerful evidence.

4. Identify the Dog and Its Owner

Get the owner’s name, address, phone number, and homeowner’s insurance information. Get witness contact information. Check for surveillance cameras that may have recorded the incident.

5. Do Not Give Statements to the Insurance Company

The homeowner’s insurance adjuster will try to get a recorded statement to use against you. Do not speak with them before consulting an attorney.

6. Call Crantford Meehan at (843) 376-4030

We offer free consultations and will begin building your claim immediately. Time is important because evidence can be lost and witness memories fade.

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CLIENT TESTIMONIALS WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT US

“Helped me through the hardest time in my life “

Crantford Meehan has helped me extremely through the hardest time in my life and has gotten me such an AMAZING recovery after my accident. I highly recommend them to any and everyone I know. Even after my own mother got into an auto accident, they have helped us both successfully move forward with our lives...

Harleigh Tenio
My ‘go to’ for legal help.

Attorney William Crantford has been great! He is my “go to” for legal help.

David Childress
Mr. Meehan was very professional.

Mr. Meehan was very professional. He made sure to address all of the questions and concerns that I had while working with him. I would absolutely recommend Crantford Meehan to anyone looking for an attorney who works hard to get you the best possible outcome.

Nikki M.

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Does South Carolina have a one-bite rule?

No. South Carolina is a strict liability state for dog bites under Section 47-3-110. The dog owner is liable regardless of whether the dog has ever bitten anyone before or whether the owner knew the dog was aggressive.

What if I was bitten on someone else’s property?

If you were lawfully on the property, such as visiting a friend’s home or making a delivery, the dog owner is strictly liable. The only exception is if you were trespassing or provoking the dog.

Can I sue a landlord for a tenant’s dog bite?

In some cases, yes. If the landlord knew about a dangerous dog and failed to take action, they may share liability. This is especially common in apartment complex cases.

My child was bitten. Can I file a claim?

Absolutely. Children are the most common victims of dog bites and the injuries are often severe. A parent or guardian can file a claim on behalf of a minor child for medical treatment, scarring, pain and suffering, and psychological trauma.