Understanding your legal options is crucial if you or someone close to you has been the victim of a Fayetteville dog bite. At Shipman & Wright, our Fayetteville dog bite attorneys are here to offer the legal representation you need during this challenging time. With a thorough knowledge of North Carolina’s dog bite statutes and a successful record of advocating for victims, we are committed to ensuring you receive just compensation for your injuries. Our approach is tailored to cover all aspects of your claim, including medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering, to support your recovery and secure the justice you are entitled to. Trust our team at Shipman & Wright to provide the dedicated and effective legal assistance your case requires. Contact us today for your free consultation.
Why Shipman & Wright Should Be Your Choice for a Fayetteville Dog Bite Claim
Choosing Shipman & Wright for your Fayetteville dog bite claim is choosing a partner with legal knowledge, a deep commitment to our clients, and a proven track record of success in personal injury claims. Here’s why Shipman & Wright stands out as the best choice for your dog bite claim:
- Over 40 Years Advocating For Clients: Shipman & Wright has a long-standing history since its establishment in 1980. Our attorneys include Gary Shipman, who was named a “Lawyer of the Year” for Personal Injury Litigation-Plaintiffs in North Carolina.
- Client-Centered Approach: Our firm’s dedication to its clients goes beyond just legal representation. Shipman & Wright takes a personalized approach to each case to make sure our clients feel supported and valued throughout the legal process.
- Comprehensive Legal Support: Shipman & Wright offers comprehensive legal support, covering everything from initial case evaluation and evidence gathering to negotiation with insurance companies and litigation.
- Tailored Strategies for North Carolina: With an understanding of North Carolina’s legal landscape, including the challenges posed by contributory negligence, the Fayetteville personal injury lawyers at Shipman & Wright know how to handle the intricacies of dog bite claims in Fayetteville.
- No Upfront Costs: We operate on a contingency fee basis for dog bite claims, meaning clients do not pay legal fees unless the firm wins their case.
Why a Lawyer is Needed in a Fayetteville Dog Bite Attorney
A qualified lawyer in a Fayetteville dog bite case is essential for several reasons. Dog bite incidents can lead to complex legal and medical issues. Dealing with these challenges without professional legal assistance could compromise your case. Here’s why a Fayetteville dog bite lawyer is crucial in such cases:
- Attribution of Negligence: North Carolina operates under the contributory negligence doctrine, which could bar you from recovery if you are found to have contributed to the accident. Our skilled Fayetteville dog bite lawyers can build a strong case to counter any allegations that might reduce your compensation.
- Assessing and Valuing Damages: Determining the full extent of damages after a dog bite is not straightforward. Beyond immediate medical expenses, there may be long-term care costs, lost wages, emotional distress, and other compensatory damages to consider. Our lawyers are experienced in dog bite cases and can assist in accurately assessing these damages
- Negotiating and Pursuing Legal Action Against Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often seek to minimize payouts. Without adequate legal representation, victims may find themselves pressured into accepting settlements that fall short of covering their total damages. Our dog bite lawyers can negotiate on your behalf and argue your case in court if needed.
- Providing Peace of Mind: Our Fayetteville dog bite lawyers offer peace of mind during what is often a stressful and painful time. Knowing that your case is in capable hands allows you to focus on recovery.
Strict Liability for Dangerous Dogs
The principle of strict liability for owners of dangerous dogs is outlined in North Carolina General Statute § 67-4.4:
“The owner of a dangerous dog shall be strictly liable in civil damages for any injuries or property damage the dog inflicts upon a person, his property, or another animal.”
The impact of this rule is that if the owner of a dog that is previously identified as “dangerous” (due to its history of aggression or involvement in dog fighting) can be held liable without the injured party having to demonstrate negligence. Owners must take stringent measures to prevent their dogs from causing harm. If the dog has been previously designated as dangerous, the focus shifts to the circumstances of the incident rather than the owner’s actions or inactions leading up to it. By holding dog owners strictly liable for the actions of their dangerous pets, the rule encourages responsible pet ownership practices. The law simplifies the process of filing a claim for victims of dog bite claims.
Damages in Fayetteville Dog Bite Attorney Claims
Victims of dog bites have the legal right to seek compensation for a wide range of damages resulting from their injuries. Here’s a breakdown of the damages that can be pursued in Fayetteville dog bite cases:
- Medical Expenses: This includes costs for all medical care related to the dog bite, from emergency room visits and hospital stays to surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical treatments required as a result of the injury.
- Lost Wages: Victims can claim compensation for wages lost due to time taken off work for recovery. If the injuries lead to a decreased earning capacity in the future, compensation for this long-term financial impact can also be sought.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for pain and suffering accounts for the physical pain and discomfort endured by the victim as a result of the dog bite.
- Emotional Distress: Separate from pain and suffering, emotional distress damages compensate for the psychological effects of the dog bite, including PTSD, depression, and other mental health conditions resulting from the incident.
- Property Damage: If personal property was damaged during the incident (such as clothing, glasses, or even the victim’s pet), compensation for repair or replacement can be included in the claim.
The process of claiming these damages can be complex, involving detailed documentation, negotiation with insurance companies, and possibly litigation. Our skilled Fayetteville dog bite attorneys can provide valuable assistance in assessing the full range of damages and gathering the necessary evidence.
Contact Our Fayetteville Dog Bite Attorneys Today
If you’re facing the challenges of recovering from a dog bite injury in Fayetteville, you don’t have to go through it alone. Our dedicated attorneys at Shipman & Wright have the knowledge, experience, and empathy to guide you through this difficult time. With an understanding of Fayetteville’s dog bite laws and a commitment to advocating for our clients’ rights, we’re here to ensure you receive the comprehensive legal support necessary to secure the compensation you deserve. Speak to Shipman & Wright today to schedule your consultation, and let our Fayetteville dog bite injury attorneys be your trusted allies in seeking justice.