After a serious dog attack, you may face hospitalization, surgery and extensive time off from work. While you focus on recovering, you can have a dog bite lawyer in Iowa fighting for your rights.  A lawyer who's a good fit for your case should know the pros and cons of Iowa dog bite law and can take the time to explain your legal options.

When you attempt to handle a dog attack case on your own, you may spur resentment, which may be exacerbated by the fact that you aren't familiar with what needs to be said to have your claim settled fairly and efficiently.

It's not uncommon for a victim to make accusations that aren't necessary under Iowa dog bite law. With the guidance of a dog bite lawyer in Iowa, however, the victim can leave all accusations up to the attorney. This can make matters less stressful.

By all means, a shrewd attorney won't confront the dog's owners, try to make them feel guilty or threaten to have the animal euthanized - unless any of this is absolutely necessary, in which your lawyer would first seek your permission. If you prefer your lawyer take a gentle approach, then that's how your case will be handled. Perhaps it was your neighbor's dog that attacked you, and you don't want litigation to ruin your friendship.

Another benefit in hiring an Iowa dog bite attorney is that you may face additional medical care in the future or treatment for scarring or disfigurement, for which you may be compensated. An attorney won’t just address your current medical bills; he or she will also consider future ones, such as plastic surgery.

If your injuries were severe, you may have to undergo several surgeries. This could also mean long-term physical therapy or rehabilitation. You should make sure that all of these potential future medical expenses are taken into account.

With injuries often comes additional missed time from work. You could be entitled to compensation for that as well. An attorney can help you calculate financial losses to be considered in your claim based on the Iowa dog bite law.

The emotional trauma of a disfiguring injury can be devastating. If there is scarring to the face, hands, arms or legs, their visibility can be a painful reminder that lasts a lifetime. Compensation could be available that addresses scarring. A good attorney will ensure this is part of your claim and will work hard to ensure the full value of your case is addressed.

In addition to an attorney who has handled these types of claims and has a good understanding of Iowa dog bite law, you should choose one that you can trust. References can be a great way to determine if you are selecting the right fit. 

After Your Dog Bite Case Has Been Settled

Once your claim is paid, the dog's owners may be relieved that their insurance company did all the work, and any initial anger may dissipate. They may even agree that your reason for hiring an attorney was to get a fair settlement, not to hurt anyone.

Keep in mind that hiring a dog bite lawyer in Iowa isn't the same thing as filing a lawsuit. Sometimes you need an attorney to present your case to the insurance company so it can be resolved outside of a courtroom. By hiring an attorney, you have a much better chance of obtaining a fair and full settlement.

Contacting a Dog Bite Lawyer in Iowa

The Iowa dog bite lawyer team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of medical treatment for dog bite injuries. That's why we provide this FREE book, Iowa Consumer's Guide to Dog Bites. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa dog bite claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 641-792-3595.

Corey Walker
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With over 28 years legal experience, Corey has been recognized for his work as an injury attorney.