According to a local sheriff’s office, a young boy has been seriously injured in a vicious dog attack. Authorities are investigating the attack that sent a 12-year-old boy to the hospital. Multiple dogs attacked the boy. According to his mother, he had to undergo multiple surgeries as a result of the attack. The boy will face more surgeries in the future due to the large lacerations caused by at least “10 dangerous pit bulls.” According to the boy, the pit bulls looked to be malnourished.
How to Recover Compensation for a Dog Bite in North CarolinaIf you or somebody know has been bitten by a dog in Charlotte, North Carolina, you are not alone. Unfortunately, multiple people become seriously injured or killed, and dog bite attacks every year in North Carolina and throughout the United States.
However, it is important that you take immediate action to protect your legal rights. You may be entitled to compensation through an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit against the dog's owner or handler. We will provide a step-by-step guide for what to do after you or your child have been injured due to a dog bite.
Seek Medical AttentionThe most important thing you should do after a dog bite or another animal attack is to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if the dog bite seems minor, it is important to get it checked out by a healthcare professional. Dog bites can easily become infected. Some dogs carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans through bites, such as rabies. Pursuing medical attention can also create a record of your injuries that you can use to prove your damages and recover the compensation you need and deserve.
Report the Dog Bite to the Appropriate AuthorityYou must legally report dog bites to the local health department in North Carolina. If you can, write down and submit the dog owner’s or homeowner’s information. You should contact your county’s health department to report the incident. The information you provide will be used to track the number of dog bites in the area. They will use this information and can help identify dangerous dogs and potentially prevent future incidents.
Gather InformationTry to gather as much information as possible about the dog and the circumstances surrounding the bite. This information can include the name and contact information of the dog’s owner, the dog’s breed, and any witnesses to the incident. Taking photos of your injuries and the location of the bite can also be helpful when attempting to build a case.
Carefully Document All of Your DamagesIt is important to carefully record your medical experiences and any other damages related to your dog bite injuries. Keep a record of your lost wages or other damages to your personal property. These documents can be used as evidence in your personal injury claim to help you recover the full and fair compensation you need and deserve for your losses.
Follow Your Doctor’s OrdersFollowing your doctor’s orders and attending all your follow-up and specialist appointments is crucial for recovering the compensation you deserve. If you fail to follow your doctor’s orders, it can be used against you by the dog owner's insurance company. It can also be used as evidence that your injuries are not as serious as you claim. Following your doctor's orders can also help you recover quickly.
Discuss Your Case With a Dog Bite AttorneyIf you have suffered a dog bite in North Carolina, it is crucial you speak to an experienced personal injury attorney specializing in dog bite cases. When you speak to a dog bite attorney, they can help you understand your legal options and whether you have a valid claim for compensation. An attorney can also help you determine the full amount of your case’s value based on your injuries, lost income, property damage, and any other current or future damages.
You can also pursue compensation for the pain and suffering you have encountered due to your injuries. If you have been disfigured due to the dog bite injuries, you can pursue compensation for your disfigurement. The Charlotte personal injury attorneys at Arnold & Smith, PLLC, are prepared to fight for you and your rights if you have been injured in a dog bite accident. Do not hesitate to contact Arnold & Smith, PLLC, to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation case evaluation.