Charlotte Dog Bite Lawyers

Dog bite incidents in Charlotte, North Carolina, frequently happen when dog owners are careless or allow their pets to roam around at large. When a dog bites a person, it may cause serious injuries, including puncture wounds, nerve damage, and deep lacerations.

If you suffered injuries in a recent Charlotte dog bite incident, the legal team at Riddle & Riddle Accident Injury Lawyers is ready to fight for your rights and advocate for your interests. We can promptly investigate your circumstances, file a claim or lawsuit in your case, and pursue the compensation you need.

For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Charlotte dog bite lawyer, please call us at (704) 486-5824 or contact us online right away.

Charlotte Dog Bite Guide:

• How Much Is My Charlotte Dog Bite Case Worth?
• Common Locations for Dog Bites in Charlotte
• Types of Injuries in Charlotte Dog Bite Cases
• Fighting the Insurance Company in a Charlotte Dog Bite Case
• Steps to Take after a Dog Bite in Charlotte
• Contact an Experienced Charlotte Dog Bite Lawyer Today

Why Choose Us?

When a dog bites a person – especially a child or elderly individual – serious complications may arise. If you or someone you love is the victim of a dog attack or bite incident, the experienced Charlotte dog bite attorneys at Riddle & Riddle Accident Injury Lawyers are ready to help. We can first determine your eligibility for filing a claim, gather documentation, and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Our lawyers have a combined 190-plus years of legal experience and have achieved hundreds of millions of dollars in settlements and jury verdicts on behalf of our injured clients. You can view our most recent client testimonials and case results at the following links.

Our office is conveniently located at 301 McCullough Drive, Suite 400, Charlotte, NC 28262.

How Much Is My Charlotte Dog Bite Case Worth?

If you’re the victim of a dog bite incident in Charlotte, North Carolina, you may wonder how much your case is worth and what forms of compensation you may recover. The value of your dog bite case depends on several factors, including the circumstances surrounding the occurrence, the severity of your injuries, and the effects on your daily life.

• First, the severity of your injuries plays a significant role in determining the value of your case. If you suffered serious injuries, such as deep wounds, scarring, nerve damage, or infections, your case may be worth more because these injuries often require extensive medical treatment. Additionally, if your injuries are permanent or significantly affect your ability to work, your compensation may be higher.
• Another factor that influences the value of your case is the effect of the dog bite on your life. If your injuries prevent you from performing your job, participating in activities you enjoy, or maintaining your quality of life, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income and loss of life enjoyment. Additionally, the emotional trauma from a dog bite, such as anxiety or fear of dogs, can also be considered when determining your compensation.

In a Charlotte dog bite case, you can recover several specific forms of compensation. Medical expenses are one of the primary forms of compensation, covering everything from emergency room visits to surgeries and follow-up care. You may also recover compensation for lost earnings if your injuries prevent you from working temporarily or permanently. Additionally, you can receive compensation for pain and suffering, which accounts for the physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the attack.

In some cases, if the dog owner’s behavior was particularly reckless or malicious, you may also be entitled to punitive damages. These damages are meant to punish the dog owner and deter similar behavior in the future.

Common Locations for Dog Bites in Charlotte

In Charlotte, North Carolina, dog bites can happen in a variety of locations, but certain areas and situations are more common for these incidents.

• One of the most common places for dog bites in Charlotte is in residential neighborhoods. Many people in the city own dogs, and these pets are often walked or let out in the yard. Unfortunately, not all dog owners properly restrain their pets. A dog may escape from a fenced yard or get loose from its leash, leading to an attack on a passerby. Even within the confines of private property, guests, delivery workers, or even neighbors may be at risk if a dog is not properly controlled.
• Another common location for dog bites in Charlotte is public parks. Charlotte is home to numerous parks where people bring their dogs to play and exercise. While most dogs in parks are friendly and well-behaved, there are times when a dog may become aggressive, especially if it feels threatened or overwhelmed due to the presence of other dogs or people. Off-leash areas within these parks can be particularly risky, as dogs are not as closely supervised.
• Sidewalks and streets are also frequent sites of dog bites. As dogs are walked around the city, they may react aggressively to strangers who pass by –especially if they are startled or feel protective of their owners. Pedestrians, joggers, and cyclists are particularly vulnerable to unexpected dog bites in these situations.
• Dog bites can also occur in commercial areas, such as outdoor shopping centers, restaurants with patio seating, or other public spaces where dogs are allowed. In these settings, dogs may be in close proximity to many unfamiliar people, which can increase the chances of an aggressive response.

Dog Bites Laws in Charlotte, North Carolina

In Charlotte, North Carolina, dog bite laws are designed to protect victims and ensure that dog owners are held accountable for their pets’ actions. Here are the most important laws to be aware of:

• Strict Liability – North Carolina follows a strict liability rule in dog bite cases. This means that a dog owner can be held responsible for injuries that their dog causes, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before or shown aggressive behavior. If the dog was not properly restrained or was violating local leash laws, the owner is likely liable for any injuries.
• One-Bite Rule Exception – While strict liability applies in most cases, North Carolina has a “one-bite rule” for situations where the dog was not violating leash laws or was on the owner’s property. Under this rule, if a dog has previously bitten someone or shown dangerous behavior, the owner is presumed to be aware of the dog’s potential to cause harm. If the dog bites someone again, the owner can be held liable.
• Dangerous Dog Laws – Charlotte also enforces dangerous dog laws. If a dog has previously been declared dangerous or potentially dangerous by authorities, the owner must take extra precautions, such as keeping the dog in a secure enclosure. If a dangerous dog bites someone, the penalties for the owner can be severe, including fines and possible criminal charges.
• Reporting Requirements – Dog bites must be reported to local animal control authorities in Charlotte. Reporting helps authorities monitor dangerous animals and prevent future incidents.

Types of Injuries in Charlotte Dog Bite Cases

Dog bites in Charlotte, North Carolina, can lead to a variety of injuries, ranging from minor to severe. The specific type and severity of injury often depend on factors like the size of the dog, the force of the bite, and the location of the bite on the victim’s body.

• One of the most common injuries from a dog bite is puncture wounds. When a dog bites, its sharp teeth can puncture the skin, creating deep wounds that can penetrate muscles, tendons, and even bones. Puncture wounds are particularly dangerous because they can easily become infected if not properly cleaned and treated.
• Lacerations, or deep cuts, are another frequent injury resulting from dog bites. These cuts can occur when a dog’s teeth tear the skin and underlying tissues. Lacerations often require stitches or even surgery to close the wound and promote healing. In some cases, lacerations can lead to significant blood loss and may result in scarring.
• Victims of dog bites may also suffer from nerve damage. If a dog’s bite severs or damages nerves, it can lead to loss of sensation, muscle weakness, or even paralysis in the affected area. Nerve damage can be a long-term or permanent injury, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
• Infections are another serious concern following a dog bite. A dog’s mouth harbors bacteria that can be introduced into a wound during a bite. If not promptly treated, infections like cellulitis, which affects the skin and tissues, or more severe conditions like sepsis, can develop. Infections often require antibiotics and, in severe cases, hospitalization.
• Fractures can occur when a large or powerful dog bites with enough force to break bones. This is particularly common when the bite occurs on the hands, arms, or legs. Fractures from dog bites may need surgical intervention and a lengthy recovery period.
• Finally, dog bite victims may experience emotional trauma, such as anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – especially if the attack was particularly violent or unexpected. The emotional effects of a dog bite can be just as significant as the physical injuries and may require counseling or therapy.

Fighting the Insurance Company in a Charlotte Dog Bite Case

If you’ve suffered a dog bite in Charlotte, North Carolina, dealing with the insurance company can be a daunting task. Insurance companies are often more focused on protecting their bottom line than making sure you receive the full compensation you deserve. That’s where the legal team at Riddle & Riddle Accident Injury Lawyers comes in. We can fight the insurance company on your behalf to help you secure a fair settlement for your injuries.

• First, we will gather and present evidence to support your claim. This includes obtaining medical records, photographs of your injuries, witness statements, and any other documentation that proves the extent of your injuries and the circumstances of the dog bite. By building a strong case, we can counter any attempts by the insurance company to downplay your injuries or shift blame onto you.
• Next, we will handle all communication with the insurance company. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts and may use tactics to pressure you into accepting a low settlement offer. We will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you are not taken advantage of during the process.
• If the insurance company refuses to offer you a fair settlement, we can litigate your case in the state court system. Our experience in dog bite cases gives us the knowledge and skills to advocate for you effectively, whether in settlement negotiations or in front of a judge.
• Finally, we will ensure that you understand every step of the process and that your questions are answered promptly. Our goal is to make this challenging time easier for you by fighting the insurance company so you can focus on healing and moving forward.

Steps to Take after a Dog Bite in Charlotte

After a dog bite incident in Charlotte, North Carolina, it’s crucial to take some specific steps to safeguard your legal rights. First, be sure to follow through with all recommended treatments and complete your medical carefully.

Next, all documentation related to the incident must be retained. This includes medical records, photographs of your injuries, incident reports, and any communication you have with the dog owner or witnesses. Keeping detailed records is vital for building a strong case if you pursue compensation.

It’s also important to report the incident to local authorities, such as Animal Control or the police. An official report can serve as crucial evidence if you need to file a claim.

Finally, speak with an experienced Charlotte dog bite attorney at Riddle & Riddle Accident Injury Lawyers as soon as possible. We can handle every step of your claim or lawsuit for you and advocate for your interests at each stage of the proceedings.

Acting quickly is important, as North Carolina has strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims, and early legal advice can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Contact an Experienced Charlotte Dog Bite Lawyer Today

If you suffered injuries in a recent dog bite or attack incident, the knowledgeable legal team at Riddle & Riddle Accident Injury Lawyers is ready to help you. We can swiftly investigate your circumstances and pursue the compensation you need for your injuries.

For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a skilled Charlotte dog bite attorney, please call us at (704) 486-5824 or contact us online.

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*NOTE: We respond to phone calls, emails, and online chats 24/7, however in-person appointments are available at our Charlotte location by appointment only. We also have investigators on staff who can come directly to you if that is more convenient.