The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that dog bites have the ability to result in infection, rabies, and lifelong trauma. After a dog bites you or a loved one, you may be wondering what legal recourse options you have for recovering compensation. With the help of a North Dakota dog bite lawyer, you may be able to recover compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and other associated losses.
When you partner with Pintas & Mullins Law Firm, we can:
- Identify the negligent party
- Review the dog’s veterinary records
- Itemize your damages
- Record your account of events
- Interview witnesses
- Gather evidence
- File a lawsuit, if necessary
We want to get started exploring your financial recovery options today. We offer our legal aid on a contingency-fee-basis, which may offer flexible payment terms for claimants concerned with the cost of representation. To get started, call (800) 816-0755.
North Dakota Gives Claimants a Six-Year Window of Action
Before we go into detail regarding your personal injury case, you should know that North Dakota gives most claimants a six-year period to file a lawsuit, per North Dakota Century Code § 28-01-16. While this may seem like a generous timeframe, our team recommends taking prompt legal action regarding your interests.
By delaying your personal injury case, you risk:
- Having the other party deny responsibility
- Having the liable insurer undervalue or deny your claim
- Evidence fading over time
- Having to pay for your bite-related expenses out of pocket
Recovering compensation for your damages is our law firm’s top priority. When you reach out to our team today, we can explain in more detail how North Dakota’s statute of limitations applies to your case. Call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today to learn more about your legal options.
Understanding North Dakota’s Dog Bite Laws
Rabies is one of the biggest concerns that arise out of dog bite cases. If you have any uncertainties regarding the dog’s vaccination records, you should talk to your doctor immediately. The Mayo Clinic notes that you may need to undergo a series of vaccinations to completely eradicate the possibility of rabies. You will likely need to undergo other forms of preventative care to prevent your injury from becoming infected.
Depending on your city’s ordinances, the animal in question may need to be registered. If the dog was not licensed, then this can be a sign of the dog owner’s negligence. If the dog was not up to date on its vaccinations, then the dog’s owner could be found liable.
Witness testimony will be one of the most important pieces of evidence in your personal injury case. Your North Dakota dog bite lawyer can speak to witnesses who saw the incident occur. They can testify as to whether the dog was aggressive or whether the dog’s owner took necessary precautions to protect others. If our investigation finds that the dog’s aggression went unchecked, resulting in your injuries, then the dog’s owner may be found liable.
For a free legal consultation, call (800) 816-0755
Compensable Damages in a North Dakota Dog Bite Case
Your case’s value rests on many circumstances regarding your situation. The nature of your injuries and the cost of your economic damages will factor into how much you can expect to recover.
Some compensable losses that may be available to you may include:
Medical Costs
You likely needed emergency medical care following the dog bite. Some recoverable healthcare costs include expenses associated with medication, surgical procedures, and emergency transportation. Your lawyer can review your health insurance policy to see if you have adequate coverage.
Lost Wages
Your injuries may have caused you to miss time from work. If so, your lost income is compensable. Your lawyer can review your employment records to calculate the cost of this expense.
Lost Earning Capacity
Your injury may have resulted in a lifelong impairment that affects your earning ability. Your lawyer can estimate the difference between what you were capable of making before the incident compared with what you are capable of making now.
Pain and Suffering
The physical pain and emotional suffering associated with your injury are compensable. When you call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm, a member of our team can provide further insight into how we calculate this expense.
Mental Health Counseling
Your dog bite may have resulted in mental health complications, such as a fear of animals. Your demand letter to the insurance company can factor in the cost of mental health counseling to address your psychological needs.
Physical Disfigurement
You may be left with permanent scarring or disfigurement, depending on the nature of your injury. Each insurance company has a different way of estimating this expense.
There are additional losses that may be available to you. Your legal team can take the time to review your situation and explain what they are.
Actions Following a Dog Bite Incident
Being bit by a dog can be a frightening experience. Combined with your legal obligations, you may feel overwhelmed. Yet, when you work with a lawyer, they can explain what measures can help promote your case’s success.
You should consider:
Seeking Prompt Medical Care
You should consult with your health care team if you have not done so already. You reasonably want to take actions that prevent your injury from getting worse. Additionally, you should keep all documentation related to your course of treatment, including the names of prescribed medications, the dates of follow-up appointments, and statements from your doctor. You do not want to leave any room for doubt regarding the cause of your injuries.
Documenting Your Injury
You should take photos of your injury as soon as you can. You will want to present the insurance company (or judge) with evidence that shows the severity of your injury. This will also give the liable party more information about your pain and suffering.
Leaving Insurance Negotiations to Your Lawyer
You should refrain from accepting an insurance settlement until you understand the cost of your damages. If you accept money from the liable insurer, your case is over. You will be unable to pursue more money even if you run into additional expenses. Your lawyer can handle all insurance settlement matters until you accept a fair offer.
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Call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm Today
Our team does not shy away from tough cases. We are committed to helping you recover compensation for your dog bite-related expenses. To learn more about how a North Dakota dog bite lawyer can assist you, dial (800) 816-0755.
Call or text (800) 816-0755 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form