If you have been bitten by a dog in Jacksonville, seeking legal assistance is crucial. A dog bite can have serious consequences, including serious injuries, expensive medical bills, and emotional distress. The Jacksonville dog bite lawyers at Shipman & Wright are here to help you secure justice and fair compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Why Select the Team At Shipman & Wright?
- We offer free, no-obligation consultations
- No legal fees unless we win
- Experienced attorneys specializing in dog bite cases
- Personalized attention to your case
At Shipman & Wright, we understand the challenges you face after a dog bite incident, and our dedicated legal team is committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve.
How Liability for a Dog Bite is Established in North Carolina
A dog bite can have serious consequences, affecting not only the victim but also their loved ones. Common causes of dog bites include:
- Provocation
- Lack of proper training or supervision
- Aggressive behavior due to abuse or neglect
Insurance companies often try to deny or minimize payouts for dog bite claims. Experienced legal representation is often necessary for dog bite victims to secure fair compensation.
According to North Carolina General Statutes § 67-4.4, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of the animal’s prior behavior or the owner’s knowledge of its viciousness. This means that if a dog bites you, the owner is typically responsible for the resulting damages.
However, North Carolina also follows a pure contributory negligence rule (N.C. Gen. Stat. § 1-139), which means that if you are found to be even partially at fault for the incident, you may be barred from recovering any compensation. This strict standard underscores the importance of having an experienced Jacksonville dog bite attorney who can demonstrate the dog owner’s sole responsibility for the bite without any fault on your part.
Available Compensation For Dog Bite Victims
In North Carolina, individuals who have been injured in a dog bite incident may be eligible to pursue compensation for various damages. These damages can include:
- Medical Expenses
- Lost Wages
- Pain and Suffering
- Scarring and Disfigurement
- Property Damage
It is important to note that compensation for a dog bite case in North Carolina may vary depending on the specific circumstances of each case. Your Jacksonville dog bite attorney can ensure that all of your damages are assessed and accounted for in the compensation you receive.
The Statute of Limitations For Dog Bite Claims in North Carolina
According to N.C. Gen. Stat. Stat. § 1-52, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including dog bite cases, is generally three years from the date of the injury. Failing to file a claim within the statute of limitations can result in the loss of the right to seek compensation.
However, certain situations may lengthen or shorten the amount of time an individual has to file a claim. Additionally, it is essential to note that initiating an insurance claim should ideally occur much sooner to ensure timely processing and resolution. Consulting with an experienced Jacksonville dog bite attorney can help clarify the specific time limits applicable to your case.
How a Jacksonville Dog Bite Attorney Can Help
Hiring a skilled Jacksonville personal injury attorney in Jacksonville can significantly benefit individuals who have suffered injuries due to dog bites. Here are some ways in which an attorney can help:
- Legal Experience: An experienced attorney possesses the legal knowledge necessary to navigate these complex cases effectively.
- A Thorough Investigation: This includes gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and obtaining relevant documents to strengthen your case.
- Case Preparation: A skilled Jacksonville dog bite lawyer will handle everything involved with preparing your case, including documenting evidence, filing paperwork, and ensuring compliance with court procedures and deadlines.
- Negotiation: Your attorney will negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf to secure fair and full compensation for your injuries.
- Litigation: In cases where a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, your attorney will be prepared to take the case to court and advocate for you in litigation proceedings.
- Emotional Support: The right attorney will provide compassionate support and guidance throughout the legal process, helping you navigate the legal complexities with confidence.
By enlisting the services of a knowledgeable Jacksonville dog bite attorney, you can maximize your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Contact the Jacksonville Dog Bite Attorneys at Shipman & Wright Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite incident in Jacksonville, do not wait to seek legal assistance. The experienced dog bite attorneys at Shipman & Wright are here to help you navigate the complexities of your case and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Call Shipman & Wright today to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced Jacksonville dog bite lawyers. Remember, we work on a contingency fee basis, so you will not owe us any legal fees unless we win compensation for you.