Mooresville Dog Bite Lawyer

Mooresville Dog Bite Attorney

It is an unfortunate reality that some dog owners allow their pets around other people even when they know their canine poses a bite risk. The physical wounds from a dog bite can be substantial. If you or a loved one was attacked by a canine, you can hire a Mooresville dog bite lawyer to hold the at-fault dog owner accountable for placing you in danger.

North Carolina Laws Related to Dog Bites

Multiple North Carolina criminal and civil laws govern how dog owners handle their dogs. Under North Carolina General Statute 67-12, it is illegal for dog owners to allow their dogs over six months old to roam freely and unaccompanied at night. This law is designed to promote public safety by preventing potential personal injury incidents involving dogs that are not under the direct control of their owners.

North Carolina General Statute 67-4 places strict liability on dog owners for any injuries or damages caused by their dangerous dog. This means that if a dog has been legally classified as dangerous, the owner is automatically liable for any harm it causes, regardless of whether the owner was negligent or aware of the potential for harm at the time of the incident.

A dangerous dog under this statute is typically defined as one that has previously injured or killed a person, has been declared dangerous by a relevant authority, or is used in illegal activities such as dog fighting.

Injuries That Can Result from a Dog Bite

Injuries from a dog bite can vary widely in severity. They often include puncture wounds that can easily become infected if not properly treated.

Lacerations are also common and can result in significant bleeding, often requiring stitches. Crush injuries cause damage to muscles, bones, and tissues beneath the skin.

Crushing bites can also lead to infections that potentially lead to serious conditions like cellulitis or sepsis if not addressed promptly. Dog bites can cause nerve damage, resulting in a loss of sensation or function in the affected area.

Scarring is another potential type of injury that can leave lasting physical reminders of the attack. Children are especially vulnerable to lasting psychological trauma. Seeing any dogs of a similar breed can trigger memories of the past traumatic event.

Benefits of Hiring a Dog Bite Attorney in Mooresville, NC

Whether you are navigating the claim process with the at-fault homeowner’s insurance carrier or weighing the option of suing the dog’s owner, having legal representation in Mooresville is a necessity.

The dog owner may falsely allege that you were to blame for the dog attack, or the insurance carrier may offer a settlement that does not fully cover your medical expenses.

A dog bite attorney brings years of experience helping clients receive the compensation they are owed. Proving fault requires more than your statements and testimony. An attorney can gather the evidence needed to make a strong case that you are the victim of an unprovoked attack and are lawfully entitled to fair compensation.

FAQs About Mooresville, NC Dog Bite Laws

Can I Sue for a Dog Bite in North Carolina?

Yes. You can sue the dog owner if their dog attacks you. Your dog bite attorney can gather evidence that shows the dog owner was aware that their dog was dangerous but still allowed it near people. Your lawyer can use evidence to show that the dog owner had a duty of care and breached that duty through negligence or misconduct, resulting in bodily harm to you.

How Much Money Can I Get from a Dog Bite?

The settlement for your dog bite will be determined in large part by the extent of your injuries, the emotional trauma you suffered, and the financial losses you incurred due to the dog attack. Depending on the circumstances of the dog attack, your attorney may be able to include punitive measures that can add to the size of your settlement.

What Is the Statute of Limitations on a Dog Bite in North Carolina?

The statute of limitations on a dog bite in North Carolina is two years. With few exceptions, this legal deadline is strictly enforced. If you wish to pursue compensation through the courts, you must file your dog bite lawsuit within two years of the dog bite. Your personal injury lawyer can explain which deadlines you must meet in order to qualify for relief through the civil courts.

Do Dog Bites Have to Be Reported in North Carolina?

North Carolina law NCGS 130A-196 mandates that all animal bites must be reported to the local health department. This requirement applies even if the bite was from your very own pet. If you decide not to seek medical attention or believe the bite was accidental, you must still report the bite.

If you were bitten by someone else’s dog, filing a report with the health department can help your case if you decide to sue the at-fault dog owner later on.

When Should I Accept a Dog Bite Settlement?

You should consider accepting a dog bite settlement when the offer fully compensates you for your injuries and any upcoming costs for treatment. One trusted source for advice on when to accept a settlement should be your attorney.

Your dog bite lawyer can review the settlement to ensure that the amount pays for all of your medical treatments, pain and suffering, lost wages, and future medical treatments. You are not obligated to accept an unfair offer. It is not uncommon for a defendant to not admit guilt as part of the settlement offer.

Schedule Your Mooresville Dog Bite Lawyer Consultation Today

Dog owners in Burke, Catawba, and Caldwell Counties have a responsibility to keep their pets from hurting other people. If you were attacked by a dog, you likely sustained serious injuries that required medical attention. By hiring a dog bite attorney, you can be compensated for your dog bite injuries. In some cases, you may qualify for damages for your pain and suffering.

The team at the Law Office of Lyndon R. Helton, PLLC, is ready to help. We can manage the legal process on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your recovery. To schedule a dog bite consultation, please contact our office today.