Leveling the Field between Injured Iowans and Insurance Companies.

Exceptions to Strict Liability in Iowa Dog Attack Laws

After a dog bite in Iowa, the owner of the dog is responsible for the injuries and damages, regardless of whether or not the dog had a history of violence or had previously demonstrated a propensity for aggression; however, there are 2 exceptions. You should always speak with a Des Moines dog attack lawyer who can explain how Iowa dog attack laws affect your case.

Strict Liability Exceptions Under Iowa Dog Attack Laws

Exception #1: If the victim of a dog bite in Iowa was committing an illegal act that gave rise to the attack, such as trespassing or committing robbery, the owner won't be held liable. Many people keep dogs as pets for personal protection, and Iowa dog attack laws acknowledge that a dog protecting its owner or home from criminality shouldn't be prosecuted.

Exception #2: If a dog owner doesn't know that his or her dog is affected with rabies and had no way of knowing in order to prevent the injury, the dog owner shouldn't be held liable. If the owner knew that the dog had rabies, however, and failed to make a "reasonable effort" to prevent injury to others, then there are grounds to pursue damages for the dog attack.

If you've been injured in by a dog bite in Iowa, contact a Des Moines dog attack lawyer who can navigate you through the claims process and explain how standing Iowa dog attack laws apply specifically your incident. 

Contacting a Des Moines Dog Attack Lawyer

The Des Moines dog attack lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair works hard to enforce victims' rights under the Iowa dog attack laws. That's why we provide this FREE book; Iowa Consumer's Guide to Dog Bites, Attacks, and Injuries . To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your rights after a dog bite in Iowa, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation. Call 1-800-707-2552 to order your free accident book today.