Columbia
Dog Bite Lawyer in Columbia

One dog bite can leave deep physical and emotional scars that take years to heal. Victims may face medical bills, time away from work, and lasting trauma. If you are facing this after an encounter with a dog, a Columbia personal injury lawyer from John Foy & Associates will look out for you as you recover and fight for the damages you deserve.

Our firm has recovered over $1 billion for injured clients, and our attorneys bring more than 350 years of combined legal experience to each case. We are proud to be known for our respect and superior care for clients.

When you work with a Columbia dog bite lawyer from our team, you’ll have a trusted advocate who understands South Carolina’s dog bite laws and knows how to build a strong case. Call us today to learn how we will help you move forward with your case.

Our Dog Bite Injury Attorneys in Columbia Will Support You

When you are hurt by a dog, it is not enough to simply say what happened. Insurance companies and courts want proof. That is where our team steps in. At John Foy & Associates, we dig into every detail of your case so nothing is missed.

We will:

• Review official reports: Police records and animal control reports often include key details about the attack and the dog’s history.
• Collect witness statements: Neighbors, bystanders, or friends who saw the incident can help confirm your story.
• Use medical records: Doctors’ notes and hospital records show how serious your injuries are and what care you needed.
• Research property records: We check leases, landlord documents, or homeowner information to see if others besides the dog’s owner share responsibility.
• Look into past complaints: If the dog has harmed or scared people before, those reports can strengthen your case.

Our firm also works with medical experts and investigators when needed. We know that strong evidence is the foundation of a successful case. With our resources and experience, we will build a clear picture of what happened and fight to hold the right parties accountable.

How Do Dog Bite Cases Work in South Carolina?

Dog bite laws in South Carolina are clear. Under S.C. Code Ann. § 47-3-10, dog owners are strictly liable if their dog bites or injures someone. That means:

You don’t have to prove the owner was negligent. The owner is responsible if the attack happened in a public place or when you were lawfully on private property. However, exceptions exist if the victim was trespassing or provoking the dog.

Dog bite cases often involve proving where the incident happened, showing you were lawfully present, and documenting the harm caused. A dog bite attorney in Columbia can help gather this evidence and present it in a way that supports your case.

What Damages Can I Recover in a Columbia Dog Bite Case?

Dog bite injuries can affect nearly every part of your life. In South Carolina, victims have the right to seek damages for financial costs and personal suffering.

Here are some of the main types of damages you may recover:

• Medical bills: This includes the cost of emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and any follow-up care you need.
• Lost income: If your injuries keep you from working, you may recover the wages you missed as well as future income if you cannot return to the same type of job.
• Pain and suffering: Physical pain from dog bites can last long after the encounter, and the law allows you to seek damages for this suffering.
• Emotional distress: Victims often struggle with fear, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress after an attack. These emotional wounds matter, too.
• Scarring and disfigurement: Visible scars or permanent changes to your appearance can affect your confidence and daily life. Damages may be awarded to recognize these lasting effects.

Damages in Fatal Dog Injury Cases

We are deeply sorry if your loved one suffered a fatal dog bite injury. No words can ease such a loss, but the law does give families the right to seek justice.

Under South Carolina’s wrongful death law (S.C. Code Ann. § 15-51-10), certain family members may recover damages for:

• Funeral and burial costs
• Medical bills related to the injury
• The loss of financial support
• The loss of companionship, care, and guidance

At John Foy & Associates, we handle these cases with compassion and respect. We will stand beside your family and pursue accountability so you do not have to go through this alone. Call us today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your legal options.

Who Can Be Held Liable?

Liability usually starts with the dog’s owner, but other parties may also share responsibility. These include:

• Landlords: If they knew about a dangerous dog on their property.
• Property owners: Who allowed a dangerous animal to stay on their land
• Dog sitters or handlers: If they had control of the dog during the attack

Proving negligence requires showing the person had a duty to prevent harm and failed to do so. Our dog bite injury lawyers in Columbia understand how to present this evidence in court.

Types of Dog Bite and Animal Injury Cases We Handle

Our lawyers represent clients in many types of animal injury cases, including:

• Dog bites: Puncture wounds, infections, scarring, or nerve damage
• Knock–downs: Large dogs knocking someone over, leading to broken bones or concussions
• Chasing incidents: Dogs chasing a person into the street, causing car accidents or falls
• Other animal attacks: Injuries from animals kept as pets, such as exotic pets or guard animals

Each of these cases may fall under South Carolina statutes governing animal liability, including S.C. Code Ann. § 47-3-110 and related negligence laws.

Get Medical Help and Protect Your Rights After a Dog Bite

The steps you take right after suffering a dog-related injury can make a big difference for your health and for your case. Here’s what to do:

• Get medical care right away: Even small bites can cause infections. See a doctor as soon as possible and follow their treatment plan.
• Report the incident to the authorities: Contact local animal control or the police. A formal report creates an official record of what happened.
• Identify the dog and owner: Write down the owner’s name, address, and phone number. If you don’t know who owns the dog, ask neighbors or bystanders.
• Gather evidence: Take photos of your injuries, the dog, and the place where the attack happened. Keep clothing or items damaged in the incident.
• Get witness statements: If anyone saw the incident, ask for their names and contact information.
• Avoid contact with the owner’s insurance company: They may try to get you to accept a low offer. Speak to a lawyer before giving any statements.
• Call our dog bite law firm in Columbia: An attorney from John Foy & Associates can explain your rights, collect evidence, and deal with insurance companies while you focus on healing.

Taking these steps can protect your health and your legal rights. Acting quickly can also make it easier to build a strong case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Cases in Columbia

Dog bite cases often leave people with more questions than answers. You may be wondering about your rights, how long you have to file, or what damages you could recover.

Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions we hear from clients in Columbia.

How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in South Carolina?

Most personal injury claims, including dog bites, must be filed within three years of the injury under  S.C. Code Ann. § 15-3-530. Acting quickly helps preserve evidence.

Can I Sue If I Was Bitten at a Friend’s House?

Yes. These claims are usually handled through the homeowner’s insurance, not directly out of your friend’s pocket.

What If the Dog Had Never Bitten Anyone Before?

South Carolina’s strict liability law applies even if the dog never showed aggression before.

Get Help From Our Dog Bite Lawyer in Columbia, SC, Today

If you or your child was attacked by a dog in Columbia, don’t wait to get legal help. Medical bills, lost work, and emotional stress can pile up quickly after an attack. Our lawyers understand how painful and frightening this time can be, and we are ready to stand beside you at every step.

At John Foy & Associates, we will fight for the damages you deserve. You should not have to face insurance companies or careless dog owners alone. Let us take on the legal fight while you focus on healing and caring for your family.

Call John Foy & Associates today for a free consultation to learn how our Columbia dog bite lawyers can help you. There are no fees unless we win for you.