Shipman & Wright offers support to guide you through the legal challenges of a Greenville dog bite claim, Our Greenville dog bite lawyers understand the intricacies of North Carolina dog bite laws and have the knowledge and experience to handle these challenging cases. We will provide the support and representation you need to achieve the best possible outcome. Our attorneys will do all we can to argue for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering to be covered. At Shipman & Wright, we are committed to providing all that we can to fight for your recovery and your rights. Contact us today for your free consultation.
Why Choose Shipman & Wright For Your Greenville Dog Bite Claim?
A Greenville dog bite incident requires a firm with qualified legal knowledge who values their clients personally. At Shipman & Wright, our team provides you with a valued partner to handle this challenging time with as little stress as possible. Here’s why Shipman & Wright should be your first choice to represent you in your claim:
- In-Depth Knowledge of Dog Bite Litigation: Since 1980, Shipman & Wright has a rich history of successfully handling personal injury cases, including dog bite claims. Our legal team includes Gary Shipman, recognized for his excellence in Personal Injury Litigation.
- Customized Strategies for Each Client: We believe that every dog bite case is as unique as the individuals involved. Shipman & Wright is committed to crafting personalized legal strategies that reflect your specific circumstances, needs, and goals.
- History of Success: Our firm’s track record is a testament to our capability and determination. We have consistently secured substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients.
- Contingency-Based Advocacy for Peace of Mind: We understand the financial stress that can accompany a dog bite injury in Greenville, North Carolina, and so we provide our services on a contingency fee basis.
The Need For A Greenville Dog Bite Attorney For Your Dog Bite Claim
Finding a Greenville dog bite lawyer is necessary for handling the physical, emotional, and financial repercussions of an incident. Our attorneys will play an invaluable role in advocating for your legal rights to make sure you receive the compensation you deserve. Here’s how our dog bite attorneys in Greenville will assist:
- Understanding of Greenville Dog Bite Laws: Our Greenville dog bite lawyers are well-versed in the complexities of North Carolina’s dog bite laws, including nuances around owner liability, leash laws, and aggressive breed statutes.
- Handling Contributory Negligence: The doctrine of contributory negligence in North Carolina presents a significant hurdle in dog bite cases. Our seasoned team of attorneys know how to navigate this challenge to make sure your rights are protected.
- Evaluation of Damages: Our Greenville dog bite attorneys will identify and quantify the full scope of damages after a dog bite, ranging from medical costs and psychological counseling to lost earnings and pain and suffering.
- Effective Negotiation with Insurers: Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, especially in cases where liability seems clear-cut. Our attorneys know how to refuse lowball offers and have the savviness to use the threat of litigation to get the best leverage for your claim.
Laws on Unleashed Dogs in Greenville Dog Bite Claims
The rules on dogs running around at large are found in N.C. Gen. Stat. § 67-12. The law states:
“§ 67‑12. Permitting dogs to run at large at night; penalty; liability for damage. No person shall allow his dog over six months old to run at large in the nighttime unaccompanied by the owner or by some member of the owner’s family, or some other person by the owner’s permission. Any person intentionally, knowingly, and willfully violating this section shall be guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor, and shall also be liable in damages to any person injured or suffering loss to his property or chattels.”
The effect of this law is to punish owners who allow their dogs to roam freely. The law sets a standard for responsible pet ownership, and failure to adhere to this standard by allowing a dog to roam unsupervised in public areas can be cited as evidence of negligence in dog bite injury claims. This negligence, in turn, forms the basis upon which victims can pursue compensation for their injuries. This law creates an obligation for owners to take reasonable steps to control their dogs and prevent them from becoming a public hazard.
Damages in Greenville Dog Bite Claims
Individuals who have suffered from a Greenville dog bite claim may pursue a variety of damages through a legal claim. These damages are designed to compensate the victim for both the tangible and intangible losses they have incurred as a result of the injury. Here’s a breakdown of potential damages in Greenville dog bite claims:
- Medical Expenses: This includes compensation for all past, present, and anticipated medical treatments related to the dog bite. It covers hospital bills, surgical costs, medications, visits to specialists, physical therapy, and any other medical needs directly stemming from the bite.
- Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: Victims can recover damages for wages lost due to time taken off work for recovery. If the injuries impact the victim’s ability to work in the future, damages may also include loss of earning capacity, reflecting the reduction in the victim’s potential lifetime earnings.
- Pain and Suffering: This category compensates victims for the physical pain and discomfort experienced during and after the dog bite incident. It acknowledges the acute and sometimes chronic nature of pain associated with such injuries.
- Emotional Distress: Dog bites can lead to significant psychological impact, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Compensation for emotional distress is intended to address these non-physical effects of the incident.
- Disfigurement and Permanent Injury: If the dog bite results in scarring, disfigurement, or permanent disability, victims may be entitled to additional compensation. These damages recognize the long-term physical and emotional consequences of the injury.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: This type of damage compensates for the diminished quality of life experienced by victims as a result of their injuries, including the inability to engage in hobbies, activities, or other forms of enjoyment they previously participated in.
- Punitive Damages: In cases where the dog owner’s behavior was particularly reckless or egregious, punitive damages may be awarded. Unlike compensatory damages, which aim to make the victim whole, punitive damages are designed to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct in the future.
Contact Our Greenville Dog Bite Attorney Today
At Shipman & Wright, our Greenville dog bite lawyers are ready to stand by your side and provide you with support throughout your recovery journey. Understanding the impact of a dog bite, we are committed to handling your claim so that our voice is heard. By leveraging our extensive knowledge of North Carolina’s dog bite laws, we aim for the justice and compensation you deserve. Our experienced Greenville dog bite injury lawyers will advocate to help you find the closure to move forward after a dog bite incident. Call us today to schedule your consultation.