Bettendorf Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

Dog bite injury attorneys become crucial allies for victims when a dog causes harm. They navigate the intricate legalities of animal incidents, focusing on securing justice and fair compensation for the injured parties.

Aggression is a common and serious behavior issue in dogs and can lead to biting. Certain circumstances can make dogs more prone to biting or attacking. Understanding these situations can help prevent incidents and ensure safety.

Fear-Induced Aggression

When a dog feels scared, it may exhibit what the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) terms "fear aggression." Typically, animals try to escape from what scares them. If escape isn't an option, aggression may serve as a defense mechanism. A fearful dog often attacks from behind, so it's advisable to always face a dog that appears scared of you.

Territorial Aggression

Territorial aggression is another common reason for dogs to bite or attack. If you enter a property that a dog considers its own, the dog may react aggressively to protect its territory. Both male and female dogs can be territorial. Dogs may also become territorial over possessions such as bones, toys, or food, and sometimes even over people.

Protective Aggression

Dogs are naturally social animals that travel in packs and protect one another in the wild. If a dog senses that its owner or another pack member is in danger, it may react aggressively to protect them. This protective instinct can extend to protecting puppies or other dogs.

Defensive Aggression

Dogs may respond aggressively if they are taunted, teased, attacked, or otherwise feel endangered. This type of response is known as defensive aggression. Because dogs can be unpredictable, it is never recommended to taunt, tease, or upset a dog, as this can be very dangerous.

Rabies Vaccination Law in Iowa

Ensuring that dogs are vaccinated against rabies is crucial for preventing rabies infections in humans following dog bites. According to Iowa Annotated Statute § 351.33, dog owners must vaccinate their dogs against rabies once they reach six months of age. Failure to comply with this law is a simple misdemeanor offense in Iowa. Unvaccinated dogs running at large can be impounded, and owners must produce proof of vaccination within a week or have the dog vaccinated immediately to avoid euthanasia.

Exemptions to the Rabies Vaccination Law

Certain exemptions apply to the rabies vaccination requirement:
- Dogs under six months of age.
- Dogs kept in kennels and not allowed to run at large.
- Dogs in transit, in Iowa for less than 30 days.
- Dogs exhibited in the state for less than 30 days.
- Dogs assigned to research facilities.

Administering the Rabies Vaccination

Only licensed veterinarians can administer rabies vaccinations in Iowa, and the vaccine must be approved by the state department of agriculture and land stewardship. After vaccination, the veterinarian issues a certification of vaccination and a rabies tag for the dog's collar.

Protection from Dog Attacks

Using harmful force against a dog posing an immediate threat is permissible for self-defense or defense of others. The force used should be proportional to the threat. If a dog is attacking, lethal force may be appropriate. However, harmful force should not be used against a dog that is merely barking, growling, restrained, or no longer a threat. Revenge attacks against dogs are not permissible; instead, incidents should be reported to police or animal control.

Understanding Your Legal Rights

If a dog attacks you, understanding your legal rights and options is crucial. Iowa law holds dog owners liable for damages if their dog attacks or attempts to bite someone, unless the injured party was committing an unlawful act contributing to the injury.

Compensation for Dog Bite Injuries

Victims of dog bites may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages. However, cases can become complicated if harmful force was used against the dog. In such instances, the dog owner might press criminal charges, creating both a civil and a criminal case.

How an Attorney Can Help

Given the complexity of dog bite claims and the evidence required, consulting an experienced attorney can be beneficial. An attorney can assist with gathering evidence, documenting injuries, and navigating the legal process to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve. 

For the complete list of things you should do if bitten by a dog you can request our FREE book, "Iowa Consumer's Guide to Dog Bites- Secrets to Not Get Bitten by Your Case" which is available to you with no risk or obligation by clicking here or by calling 641-792-3595. 

Why offer a Free Dog Bite Book?  Since 1997, I have been representing injured Iowans, including many dog bite victims from central Iowa and throughout the state.  I have heard too many horror stories about people making costly mistakes, causing them to lose thousands of dollars.  Before you talk to the insurance company you should know your rights and perhaps more importantly your responsibilities.   

If you need immediate assistance, contact us online or call us at (641) 792-3595. If you are not local to us, we will come to you.