A dog bite can leave lasting physical and emotional scars. Understanding your legal rights is crucial to helping ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
When a dog bite causes harm, you can seek compensation under North Carolina dog bite laws. Here are some steps to take before filing a claim.
Identify the dog and owner
Obtain the dog owner’s contact information and any relevant details about the animal’s history, or have someone do so on your behalf. This information is crucial for filing a claim. If the owner is uncooperative, contact animal control or law enforcement to assist in identifying the dog and its owner.
Get witness statements
It’s important to gather contact information from anyone who may have witnessed the incident. Their accounts can provide valuable evidence regarding the dog and the circumstances surrounding the bite. Witnesses can verify your version of the dog attack, potentially strengthening your claim.
Document the incident
Thorough documentation is crucial. Take photographs of your injuries immediately and throughout the healing process. Also, document where the bite occurred, the time and any other relevant details. Consider keeping a journal of your pain levels, emotional distress and any limitations caused by the injury for your claim.
See a doctor
Prioritize your health by seeking medical treatment as soon as possible. Not only will this help ensure proper care, but it also creates a medical record that can be used as evidence in your claim. Follow your doctor’s instructions and keep detailed records of all medical expenses to strengthen your case further.
Getting experienced legal guidance can provide help ensure that you obtain appropriate compensation for medical bills and other economic as well as non-economic damages.
