Call Toll Free 1-888-792-3595

What is strict liability when it comes to a dog bite attack in Des Moines?

A: After a dog bite attack in Des Moines, the owner of the dog is considered liable for the damage done under Iowa's strict liability rules. However, sometimes there is confusion when determining who the owner is or whether or not other people are held liable for the injuries suffered by the victim of a dog bite. After you've been injured by a dog, you should always speak to an Iowa dog bite lawyer who can guide you through the process.

The laws in Iowa state that a dog owner is responsible for the damage or injury caused by his or her dog whether or not the dog has a documented history of aggressive behavior, unlike other states that use a "one bite rule" and will not penalize an owner for the first time its dog attacks.

What this means is that you, the victim, are only required to prove that the dog attacked you and that the dog belongs to the person from whom you are seeking damages.

In some cases, the legal owner may be unclear, but your lawyer can request veterinary and municipal licensing and registration information for the dog to determine the identity of the true owner.

In other cases, the owner may not be the only person responsible for the damage caused by a dog bite attack in Des Moines. Iowa law identifies the "keeper" or "possessor" of a dog as also being liable. So if anyone other than the owner was caring for dog at the time you were attacked, they also may be held liable for your damages. Speak with an Iowa dog bite lawyer about what rights and entitlements you have under Iowa dog bite law.

Contacting an Iowa Dog Bite Lawyer

The lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair works hard to enforce victims' rights after a dog bite attack in Des Moines and other cities in Iowa. 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.