Wilmington Dog Bite Lawyer
If you have suffered a dog bite injury, contact our Wilmington dog bite lawyer for a free consultation with our knowledgeable legal team.
Dog Bite Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Wilmington, you likely have many questions about your rights and options.
The physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial costs of dog bites can be substantial. An experienced dog bite attorney can help you understand your legal options and fight to recover full compensation for your injuries.
At Cline Donaldson Law, we approach each case with compassion for our clients while aggressively pursuing maximum compensation through settlements or litigation. If you have suffered a dog bite injury, contact our Wilmington dog bite lawyer for a free consultation with our knowledgeable legal team.
North Carolina’s Laws Regarding Dog Bite Liability
North Carolina uses a “strict liability” standard for dog bites under N.C. Gen. Stat. §67-4.4, meaning the owner is liable for bites and injuries regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression.
However, there are exceptions under NC law. The owner may not be liable if the injured person provoked the dog. But merely approaching, petting, or inadvertently startling a dog is not enough to exempt the owner from responsibility.
Homeowners’ and renters’ insurance generally cover dog bite liability, but notification deadlines apply. Having an attorney immediately review your case ensures these deadlines are met properly.
How We Can Help
Building Your Claim With an Experienced Attorney
Pursuing compensation after a dog bite attack can be complex, but you don’t have to handle it alone. Our dedicated legal team can help you navigate the process from start to finish.
We know how traumatic these experiences can be. That’s why we handle the legal process from start to finish, allowing you to focus on healing while we fight to get you the justice and compensation you deserve. Don’t wait – contact our office today to discuss your case in a free consultation.
Determine all potentially liable parties
We start by determining all potentially liable parties – the dog’s owner and landlords- if the incident was on rental property.
Send letters of representation
Then, we send letters of representation to insurance companies involved to protect your legal rights.
Thoroughly investigate your claim
We do this by:
- Collecting veterinary records, animal control reports, leash law violations, and documentation of prior biting incidents
- Taking photographs of injuries and the location of the attack
- Obtaining witness statements to help prove liability
Assess the potential value of your claim
We do this by considering medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term impacts of scarring or disabilities.
Negotiate on your behalf
We negotiate firmly with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement without going to court. But we are fully prepared to litigate on your behalf if needed.
From Our Founder
Don’t go it alone against big insurance companies. We have the resources to build a strong compensation claim.
Scott Donaldson
Compensation Available in NC Dog Bite Claims
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in North Carolina, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses.
Possible compensation includes:
Medical expenses
Any costs related to immediate care, hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatments may be claimed. This includes ambulance fees, medications, and medical devices.
Lost income
If injuries from the bite prevented you from working for a period of time, you can claim lost wages. Missed opportunities for overtime or promotions are also compensable.
Disability
Permanent impairment that affects your earning capacity or ability to work can result in compensation for loss of future income.
Pain and suffering
Damages can cover both physical pain and mental anguish resulting from the trauma of a dog attack.
Scarring or disfigurement
Visible scarring and disfigurement, especially on the face or neck, are compensable in North Carolina.
The unique circumstances of each dog bite case determine the full scope of damages that can be claimed. A personal injury attorney experienced in animal attack cases can thoroughly assess what you may be entitled to.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Work With Our Wilmington Dog Bite Attorney
Pursuing compensation after a dog bite is complex, with strict deadlines and legal procedures.
Attempting this on your own is extremely difficult, especially while coping with bite trauma. An experienced lawyer levels the playing field, dealing directly with the insurer, so you can focus on healing.
Our consultations are always free. We take dog bite cases on a contingency fee – you pay nothing upfront and owe us no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.
We will treat you compassionately, keep you informed at every step, and customize our vigorous representation to your needs.
What should I do after being bitten by a dog in North Carolina?
Immediately clean and treat the wound, get contact information for the dog’s owner, report the bite to animal control, document your injuries, and contact an experienced dog bite attorney to discuss your legal options. Saving any evidence and acting quickly is important.
Can I sue if a dog bites me in NC?
Yes, North Carolina uses strict liability for dog bites, so dog owners are liable for any injuries their dog causes, regardless of previous aggression. There are exceptions if the victim was provoked by the dog intentionally.
How much is a dog bite lawsuit worth in NC?
There is no average dog bite settlement in North Carolina. They vary based on severity and circumstances. Settlements consider medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, permanent scarring, or disability. An attorney can assess your potential damages.
Contact Us Today
Let Our Wilmington Dog Bite Attorney Fight For You
If you’ve suffered injuries and trauma from a dog bite in the Wilmington area, the experienced legal team at Cline Donaldson Law is here to help. We know your rights under North Carolina law and how to build a strong claim for maximum compensation.
Our attorney will treat you with compassion while aggressively pursuing the financial recovery you need to move forward. Don’t wait – contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Justice and full compensation could be just one call away.
Speak to a lawyer today
North Carolina is Home
Proudly serving clients in Hanover, Pender, and Brunswick counties.
Wilmington
Southport
Scotts Hill
Hampstead
Leland
Calabash
With Two Convenient Office Locations
Wilmington
6329 Oleander Drive
Wilmington, NC 28403
Hampstead
14889 US-17 Suite 108
Hampstead, NC 28443