Is there a one-bite rule?

No. The owner or keeper is liable without proof that the dog had bitten before or that the owner knew it was dangerous.

What are the defenses?

Provocation or harassment of the dog that was the proximate cause of the attack, and a trained law-enforcement dog working in compliance with the statute's conditions. The statute also protects only people in a public place or lawfully in a private place, so a trespasser is outside it.

Does it cover non-bite attacks?

Yes. The text covers a person who is 'bitten or otherwise attacked' by a dog.

South Carolina Dog Bite Liability

Q: Is South Carolina a strict liability state for dog bites?

Yes. S.C. Code 47-3-110 provides that if a person is bitten or otherwise attacked by a dog while in a public place or lawfully in a private place, including the property of the dog owner or other person having the dog in his care or keeping, the owner or keeper is liable for the damages suffered.

Q: How long do I have to file?

Three years under S.C. Code 15-3-530.

Under S.C. Code 47-3-110, the dog owner or other person having the dog in his care or keeping is liable for the damages when a person is bitten or otherwise attacked in a public place or lawfully in a private place. Provocation and trespass are the main defenses.

Cited to S.C. Code 47-3-110 FigureMyTax Editorial Team Free · no sign-up

By the FigureMyTax Editorial Team · How we calculate

What is your claim worth?

Enter your estimated damages and a few quick facts about the incident.

Estimated damages (medical bills, lost wages, etc.)

Were you in a public place or lawfully in a private place (including the owner's property)?

Did you provoke the dog (teasing, hitting, poking or harassing it)?

Who are you claiming against?

Your own share of fault, if any: 0%

Estimated result

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The statute puts liability on the owner

S.C. Code 47-3-110 provides that if a person is bitten or otherwise attacked by a dog in a public place or lawfully in a private place, including the property of the dog owner or other person having the dog in his care or keeping, the owner or keeper is liable for the damages suffered. Provocation and trespass are the usual defenses.

The statute of limitations is three years under S.C. Code 15-3-530.

Injured in South Carolina?

A local personal injury attorney can review your claim — many offer a free consultation.

Talk to a South Carolina attorney

This is an estimate for general guidance only and is not legal advice. Figures are based on the cited South Carolina statutes. Confirm how these rules apply to your specific case with a licensed South Carolina attorney.

South Carolina Dog Bite Liability

What is your claim worth?

The statute puts liability on the owner

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