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 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.

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. Here’s how we help you:

  1. We start by determining all potentially liable parties – the dog’s owner and landlords- if the incident was on rental property.
  2. Then, we send letters of representation to insurance companies involved to protect your legal rights.
  3. Next, we thoroughly investigate your claim by:
    1. Collecting veterinary records, animal control reports, leash law violations, and documentation of prior biting incidents
    2. Taking photographs of injuries and the location of the attack
    3. Obtaining witness statements to help prove liability
  4. We assess the potential value of your claim considering medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term impacts of scarring or disabilities.
  5. 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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