Charlotte Dog Bite Lawyer: Get Your Free Consultation Today

In Charlotte, North Carolina, dog bites are a growing concern, with the state ranking among the top 10 in the nation for dog bite incidents. In 2023, North Carolina reported 185 dog bites, a significant increase from 146 in 2022. If you or a loved one has experienced the trauma and injury of a dog bite, understanding your legal rights is crucial. A Charlotte dog bite lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the complexities of North Carolina’s dog bite laws and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Understanding North Carolina’s Dog Bite Laws

North Carolina operates under a “one-bite rule,” which can make it challenging to recover damages if the dog has no prior history of aggression. However, there are exceptions to this rule. A dog owner can be held liable in certain situations, even if it’s the dog’s first bite.

Exceptions to the One-Bite Rule

Known History of Aggression: If the dog has bitten someone before or has a known history of aggressive behavior, the owner is liable for subsequent bites.
Violation of Leash Laws: Mecklenburg County requires dogs to be under restraint when away from their property. If a dog bites someone while off-leash, the owner may be held responsible.
Negligence: If the owner was negligent in controlling their dog or failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the bite, they could be liable. Examples of negligence include failing to restrain the dog or ignoring leash laws.
Dangerous Dog Designation: If a dog has been classified as “dangerous” or “potentially dangerous” by animal control, the owner is strictly liable for any injuries the dog causes. A dog may be deemed dangerous if it has killed or severely injured a person or domestic animal.
Strict Liability: North Carolina General Statute § 67-4.4 states that owners are strictly liable for bites and other injuries caused by their dog if they intentionally, knowingly, and willfully allowed a dog at least six months of age to “run at large” at night unaccompanied by its owner or a member of the owner’s family.

What to Do After a Dog Bite in Charlotte

Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if the bite seems minor, it’s essential to seek medical attention to prevent infection and address any underlying injuries. Be sure to document all medical treatment you receive.
Report the Bite: Report the incident to local animal control or the health department. This creates an official record of the bite and triggers a mandatory 10-day rabies quarantine for the dog.
Identify the Dog and Owner: Obtain the dog owner’s name, address, and contact information. If possible, get proof of the dog’s rabies vaccination.
Gather Evidence: Collect as much evidence as possible, including photos of your injuries, the location where the bite occurred, and any witnesses’ contact information.
Contact a Charlotte Dog Bite Lawyer: An experienced attorney can evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Types of Compensation Available to Dog Bite Victims

If you’ve been injured by a dog bite in Charlotte, you may be entitled to compensation for the following damages:

Medical Expenses: This includes all costs associated with treating your injuries, such as hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover lost income during your recovery period.
Pain and Suffering: You can seek compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the dog bite.
Property Damage: If any of your personal belongings were damaged during the attack, you can claim reimbursement for repair or replacement costs.
Punitive Damages: In cases where the dog owner acted with gross negligence or malice, you may be able to recover punitive damages.

The Value of Your Dog Bite Claim

The value of your dog bite claim depends on several factors, including:

Severity of Your Injuries: More severe injuries typically result in higher medical costs and greater pain and suffering, increasing the value of your claim.
The Dog’s Bite History: If the dog has a history of aggression, it can strengthen your case.
Evidence of Negligence: Clear evidence that the owner failed to control their dog or was aware of its aggressive tendencies can also strengthen your case.
Insurance Coverage: The availability of homeowner’s or renter’s insurance that covers dog bites can impact the amount of compensation available.

The average dog bite settlement in North Carolina ranges from \$30,000 to \$50,000, but this can vary significantly depending on the specific circumstances of your case.

Why You Need a Charlotte Dog Bite Lawyer

Navigating the legal complexities of a dog bite case can be challenging, especially when dealing with insurance companies. A Charlotte dog bite lawyer can:

Investigate Your Claim: Gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case on your behalf.
Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Handle all communications with the insurance company and fight for a fair settlement.
Represent You in Court: If a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney can represent you in court and advocate for your rights.

North Carolina’s Contributory Negligence Rule

It’s important to be aware of North Carolina’s contributory negligence rule. If you are found to be even 1% at fault for the dog bite, you may be barred from recovering any compensation. This makes it crucial to work with an experienced attorney who can protect your rights and ensure that you are not unfairly blamed for the attack.

Statute of Limitations

In North Carolina, the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits, including dog bite claims, is three years from the date of the injury. This means you must file your lawsuit within three years to preserve your right to compensation.

Free Consultation with a Charlotte Dog Bite Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Charlotte, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance. Contact a Charlotte dog bite lawyer today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn about your legal options. With the help of an experienced attorney, you can navigate the complexities of North Carolina’s dog bite laws and pursue the compensation you deserve.