Dog bites can be terrifying experiences that lead to both physical and emotional trauma. If you’ve been bitten by a dog in North Carolina, it’s important to take the right steps immediately. Knowing how to protect your rights will ensure that you receive proper compensation for medical expenses, pain, and suffering. North Carolina law provides specific guidelines for dog bite incidents, and following the right legal procedures is essential for anyone seeking justice after a dog attack.
Step One: Seek Medical Attention Immediately 
The first thing to do after a dog bite is to seek medical attention right away, regardless of how minor the injury might seem. Dog bites can quickly become infected, and some may even transmit diseases like rabies. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent complications. Even a small bite should be evaluated by a healthcare professional because you may not realize the full extent of the injury at first.
In addition to receiving treatment for your physical injuries, medical professionals will document your injuries. This medical record is important for any potential legal claim you may pursue. If the dog’s rabies vaccination status is unknown, you may require a series of preventive rabies shots. Rabies is a deadly disease, and taking this precautionary measure can help save your life.
Even if the bite appears to be minor, seek out medical attention to ensure that you do not experience any complications that could worsen your condition. A healthcare professional will clean the wound, examine it for signs of infection, and provide advice on what you can do to care for the injury at home.
Step Two: Report the Incident to Local Authorities
In North Carolina, it’s required by law to report a dog bite to the local authorities. Reporting the bite ensures there is a documented record of the incident. This step is critical if you plan to pursue a legal case later. When you report the dog bite, authorities will gather information about the dog and its owner. Animal control officers or local law enforcement will also determine if the dog has a history of aggressive behavior or has previously bitten anyone.
Additionally, reporting the incident will help ensure the dog is quarantined for observation. In some cases, dogs that bite may need to be confined for a specific period to check for signs of rabies or other diseases. A report also serves as proof that the attack occurred, which can be invaluable when presenting your case to an attorney or in court.
Step Three: Gather Information About the Dog and Its Owner
Once you have received medical attention and reported the incident, the next step is to gather as much information as possible about the dog and its owner. Record the breed, size, color, and any distinguishing marks of the dog. This information will help authorities track the dog and ensure it is properly quarantined. It will also provide valuable details for your case.
Be sure to obtain the contact information for the dog’s owner, including their name, phone number, and address. If there were any witnesses to the attack, ask them for their contact information as well. Witness testimonies can provide crucial evidence if the dog owner tries to deny the attack or dispute your claims.
In many cases, the dog owner may have homeowner’s or renter’s insurance that could cover the cost of your medical bills and other expenses. If you know the owner’s insurance provider, make sure to get the details. This will allow your attorney to pursue a claim directly with the insurer.
Step Four: Document the Injuries and Keep a Record of Medical Treatment
Documenting your injuries is a critical step in the process of filing a claim. Take photographs of the dog bite immediately after the incident. These photos will serve as important evidence in your case. If your injury worsens or you undergo multiple treatments, continue to take pictures of the healing process.
Make sure to keep a detailed record of all medical treatments, doctor’s appointments, prescriptions, and any related medical expenses. If you experience emotional distress, such as PTSD or anxiety from the attack, keep a record of any therapy or counseling you seek. Emotional trauma can be just as debilitating as physical injuries, and documenting it will help your case.
You should also record how the injury affects your daily life. For example, if you are unable to work due to the injury or if you need assistance with personal care, keep a log of how your life has changed. This will help your attorney quantify the damages you have suffered.
Step Five: Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
After a dog bite, it is essential to contact an experienced personal injury attorney. An attorney will guide you through the legal process, ensuring you understand your rights and options. In North Carolina, the law generally holds dog owners liable if their dog has previously shown dangerous tendencies or if the victim was lawfully on the property when the bite occurred.
A personal injury lawyer can assess the details of your case, gather evidence, and help you file a claim. They will work to ensure that you receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress caused by the attack.
Your attorney will also handle negotiations with the dog owner’s insurance company or take the case to court if necessary. Hiring a lawyer can significantly increase your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.
Contact ClearView Legal for Help
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in North Carolina, ClearView Legal is here to help. Our experienced attorneys specialize in personal injury cases and can help you navigate the legal system. We understand how traumatic dog bites can be, and we are dedicated to fighting for your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.