Columbia Dog Bite Lawyer

Is a dog's owner legally liable for an attack in Columbia?

Many states across the country apply the centuries-old "One Bite Rule," which holds that a dog or other animal can bite one person before being held legally liable to the victim, on the grounds that unless the dog has a known history of vicious or aggressive behavior the owner cannot be considered negligent in preventing the attack. Fortunately for you, South Carolina does not follow this custom-if a dog has attacked you or your child in Columbia, you are entitled to recover monetary damages by filing a personal injury claim.

Under the South Carolina Code of Laws §47-3-110, the victim of a dog bite which occurs in a public place has a right to claim financial compensation, as well as if the attack takes place on private property, provided that the victim is not trespassing. It is also necessary to prove that you did not in any way provoke the attack, as this would make you ineligible to recover damages. Under certain circumstances, it might additionally be possible to file a premises liability claim against the landlord, if it can be proven that the property owner knew that the dog was prone to attack but failed to take precautions including evicting the dog's owner.

Fighting for Your After a Dog Bite in Columbia

By choosing a Columbia personal injury lawyer at Masella Law Firm, P.A. to represent your case, you will be giving yourself the support and advocacy of a former prosecutor and judge and a team with a proven track record of success. We take pride in defending the rights of those who have been wrongfully injured, and are ready to fight for your right to compensation for medical expenses, lost income and damages for pain, suffering and disfigurement.