Winston-Salem Dog Bite Lawyer
Suffering a dog attack is terrifying. While it may only last a few seconds, the aftereffects can last for years or even the rest of your life. You want more than compensation for your medical bills in a time like this; you want empathy and compassion from a Winston-Salem dog bite lawyer.
Whitley Law Firm understands what you’re going through. Our team has over 80 years of combined legal experience helping injured claimants recover damages and find peace. We aim to alleviate your stress by managing each aspect of the claims process, and we won’t ask for a penny upfront. Connect with us by calling (919) 785-5000.
Who Are the Lawyers at Whitley Law Firm?
When you partner with our team, you get more than an advocate; you get “The Whitley Advantage.” We believe our client-focused care delivers the best possible results. We work for you—not the other way around. You can expect timely updates on your case and responses to your questions within 24 hours.
By entrusting us with your personal injury case, you get:
- Whole-hearted, hands-on care. Our Winston-Salem dog bite lawyers will aim to make you as comfortable as possible throughout your case’s progression. As our client, you’ll get your lawyer’s phone number, so you can call or text them with questions or concerns.
- The knowledge that comes with experience. When we opened our doors in 1974, we had one goal: securing financial justice for injured claimants in North Carolina. We understand the local court systems, dog bite ordinances, and other factors relevant to your case.
- Comprehensive legal help. You don’t have to lift a finger in service of your dog bite legal case. We’re not kidding when we say we’ll handle everything. In the meantime, you can spend time with your family and recuperate from your injuries. We will manage your case’s behind-the-scenes work.
We Understand How North Carolina’s Laws Apply to Your Case
You don’t have to spend hours researching dog bite laws to pursue damages. Our Winston-Salem dog bite attorneys understand personal injury laws and how they affect your right to seek damages.
For instance, a dog owner has strict liability for an animal deemed dangerous, per G.S. § 67-4.4. That means you don’t have to prove that the dog’s owner was negligent. Instead, you only need to show that the dog bit you, and you have damages.
Evidence to support your claim may include the dog’s vaccination records, eyewitness accounts, and information from an animal behavioral specialist.
We’re Eager to Pursue Full Compensation for Your Dog Bite Case
The Animal Veterinary Medical Association notes that about 800,000 dog bites require medical attention in the U.S. each year. Aside from punctured skin, dogs have bacteria in their mouths that can cause serious infections. Seeking medical attention isn’t cheap, however––even if you have good insurance.
You shouldn’t have to take multiple jobs or overextend yourself to make ends meet. Someone else’s dog bit you, after all. They should be responsible for your losses, which may include:
- Healthcare expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Emotional trauma
- Lost income and other job-related revenue
- Loss of future earning capacity
There isn’t an average or default settlement value for dog bite injury cases. Your Winston-Salem dog bite attorney will base your settlement’s value on many factors, including the severity of your condition, the circumstances of the attack, and the medical care you required.
Your Lawyer Serving Winston-Salem Manages All Case-Related Deadlines
Every personal injury case, whether it arises from a car collision, slip and fall, or dog bite, comes with a filing deadline. Per G.S. § 1-52, you generally have three years to file your lawsuit. While our firm resolves many cases through negotiations, keeping your options for litigation open is vital.
By promptly consulting our team, you can put your worries aside and allow one of our Winston-Salem dog bite attorneys to champion your rights. The sooner you reach out to our team, the sooner we can start building your case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Injury Cases
As you consider entrusting us with your case, you may wonder:
Does It Matter What Type of Dog Bit Me?
It doesn’t matter what type of dog bit you; if you suffered injuries, you can pursue the owner for damages. For instance, if a dog attacked you at a public park, you could sue the owner. If a dog bit you at an animal rescue, you could fight to hold that party accountable for your losses.
How Long Does It Take to Recover Damages?
We know you want compensation as soon as possible after suffering a dog bite. Yet, these cases take time, and settling for the insurer’s first offer isn’t always beneficial. Our Winston-Salem dog bite lawyers at Whitley Law Firm can combat anything that aims to discredit or delay your case.
For instance, if the insurance company claims you provoked the dog, we can use eyewitness testimony to assert otherwise. If the defendant disputes your injuries’ severity, we can offer medical documentation to demonstrate your suffering.
What Should I Do After a Dog Bite in Winston-Salem?
You should seek immediate medical attention after suffering a dog bite. According to MedlinePlus, what may initially appear as a minor puncture wound could lead to:
- Infection
- Swelling
- Tendon or joint damage
- Bruising
- Extensive bleeding
- Numbness or tingling
Visiting a healthcare provider ensures you don’t suffer any further complications from the dog’s bite. Also, your medical treatment records can draw a firm connection between your injuries and the incident.
What Cases Has Whitley Law Firm Won in the Past?
Some of our most recent successes include:
- $10 million for a wrongful death case involving four people
- $5.5 million for a mail truck accident
- $4 million for an on-the-job accident
- $3.5 million for a bus accident case
While these aren’t dog bite cases, they still rest on one principle: holding another party financially accountable. Your lawyer will do everything possible to secure a fair settlement from the responsible entity. We believe hard work leads to success, and that’s exactly what we’ll put into every aspect of your Winston-Salem dog bite case.
Connect With a Winston-Salem Dog Bite Lawyer at Whitley Law Firm Today
Our Winston-Salem dog bite lawyers believe in providing compassionate care to all of our clients. We will take the time to listen to your story and develop a close relationship with you. We understand you are going through a very difficult time, and we will handle your case like we would for a member of our family.
You don’t have to spend another minute feeling uncertain about your case’s outcome. With just one phone call, you can learn about your options, next steps, and claim’s potential. Call (919) 785-5000 to begin your free case review.
