Average Dog Bite Settlement in South Carolina (2026)

Average Dog Bite Settlement Amounts in South Carolina

Average settlement amounts offer limited value because every case is different. Real settlements depend on injury severity, insurance coverage, and the unique facts of each incident. Our ConsumerShield research team gathered data from law firms that publicly post average figures in South Carolina, finding two firms that share this information.

Here's what the data suggests:

• Minor injuries generally fall between $5,000 and $25,000.
• Moderate injuries often range from $25,000 to $100,000.
• Severe injuries can reach $100,000 to $500,000 or more.

One firm also lists an overall average near $136,000. These numbers give a rough picture, but your own claim may look very different.

How South Carolina Dog Bite Laws Protect Victims

While dog bite laws by state can vary significantly across the country, South Carolina follows a strict liability tort rule for dog bites. Under S.C. Code § 47-3-110, the owner of the dog or the person having the dog in their care is strictly liable for damages when the dog bites or attacks someone in a public place or lawfully on private property, provided the victim did not provoke the dog.

This means you usually don't have to prove the owner was careless. You also don't need to show the dog bit someone before. The law focuses on whether you had a right to be where the attack happened.

Types of Damages Available in a Dog Bite Claim

Damages cover the losses you suffered from the attack. In South Carolina, you may be able to recover several types of compensation.

Common damages include:

• Medical expenses, including surgery, stitches, and follow-up care
• Lost wages if you missed work while recovering
• Emotional and physical distress, which allows you to claim pain and suffering for the trauma you endured
• Scarring or disfigurement, which is common with dog bites
• Future medical costs for ongoing treatment

Each category adds to the total value of your claim. The more serious the injury, the higher these amounts tend to climb.

Factors That Influence Your Dog Bite Settlement Value

Several factors shape what your claim might be worth. Cases rarely settle for the exact same amount, even with similar injuries.

Key factors include the severity of your wounds, the cost of your medical care, and whether the bite left permanent scars. Lost income and the long-term impact on your daily life also matter. Insurance policy limits often set a practical ceiling on what you can recover.

Who Pays for a Dog Bite Settlement in South Carolina

In most cases, the dog owner's homeowners or renters insurance pays the settlement. According to the Insurance Information Institute, dog bites account for a large share of homeowners' liability claims each year.

If the owner has no insurance, you may pursue them directly. That path can be harder, since collecting from an individual is often more difficult than from an insurer.

Connect With an Experienced South Carolina Dog Bite Lawyer

You don't have to handle a dog bite lawsuit or insurance claim alone. ConsumerShield matches you directly with experienced South Carolina personal injury lawyers who specialize in cases like yours. We make it simple to find help, so you can focus on healing while a skilled attorney handles the rest. Reach out today to get started.