DeWitt Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

In cases of dog-inflicted injuries, dog bite injury lawyers serve as crucial advocates for the victims. With expertise in animal law, they manage liability and compensation complexities to ensure justice and proper support.

Broken Bones from Dog Bite in Iowa: Recovering Compensation for Medical Care

Some dogs, without provocation, may attack an undeserving victim, leading to serious and debilitating injuries. Among these injuries, broken bones are particularly severe. If you’ve suffered fractures from a dog attack, you may be entitled to compensation for medical care. Legal assistance can be crucial in understanding your options and taking the necessary action.

Types of Broken Bones from a Dog Attack

The severity of broken bones resulting from a dog attack can vary significantly. Multiple bones may be broken in severe cases, while minor breaks might be easier to correct. Severe fractures often require surgery and rehabilitation. Commonly affected bones include those in the legs, arms, face (such as a broken nose), hips, ribs, and even the skull. A skull fracture, especially if it affects the brain, can cause permanent impairment.

Iowa Dog Bite Law Allows You to Recover Compensation

Under Iowa State Statute Section 351.28, a dog owner is almost always liable for any harm caused by their dog. The law states, “the owner of a dog shall be liable to an injured party for all damages done by the dog…[if] the dog is attacking or attempting to bite a person…”

An exception to this rule is if the victim was engaged in unlawful activities at the time of the attack. For instance, the law may not protect someone trespassing on another’s property. Additionally, the law does not apply to dogs with hydrophobia (rabies), unless the owner knew of the rabies and failed to take reasonable care to prevent the attack.

Damages Available Under Iowa Dog Bite Law

The liability standard in Iowa covers all damages, meaning victims can recover necessary medical expenses, including:

- Initial care and examinations
- Imaging procedures like X-rays
- Treatment
- Surgery
- Medications

There is no cap on economic or non-economic damages in Iowa, allowing victims to claim full financial recovery. However, a claim for benefits must be filed within two years of the attack. Failure to file within this period forfeits the right to benefits.

Victims may also recover damages for lost wages, future lost wages, scars, disfigurement, and emotional suffering. Severe broken bone injuries often lead to disfigurement and significant emotional distress, warranting further compensation.

How a Dog Bite Attorney Can Help You

Navigating the legal process for claiming damages requires a thorough understanding of the law. Attorneys at Walker, Billingsley & Bair can assist in filing your claim, gathering documentation of your injuries, and ensuring you receive the full amount of benefits you deserve. Contact us at (888) 435-9886 or use our online contact form for legal help.

Dog Bite at a Dog Park: How Negligence Determines Liability

Dog parks are popular spots for dogs to run free and socialize. However, if a dog bite occurs, questions about liability arise. Do dog park users assume the risk, or can someone be held liable for injuries?

How Negligence May Apply in an Attack at a Dog Park

Dog parks often allow dogs to be off-leash, which can lead to incidents. Despite this, a dog owner can still be liable for injuries caused by their dog. Negligence can play a role, such as an owner knowingly letting a dangerous dog roam free.

Injuries Resulting from a Dog Bite at a Dog Park: Owner Liability

Iowa’s dog bite laws impose strict liability on dog owners for their dogs' actions, even in dog parks. If a dog with rabies bites someone, the owner is only liable if they knew about the rabies and could have prevented the attack. 

Injuries Resulting from a Dog Bite at a Dog Park: Park Liability

Sometimes, the park owner may also be liable if they were aware of a dangerous dog being brought to the park and failed to act. This situation is complex, and liability typically falls on the dog owner. Victims should consult an attorney to explore all possible avenues for compensation.

Recovery of Damages from a Dog Bite at a Dog Park

Consulting with an attorney helps determine if you have a valid case and who may be liable. Compensation might cover medical bills, future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. Permanent scarring could also warrant damages for disfigurement.

Will the Dog Be Put Down if I File a Dog Bite Claim?

Filing a dog bite claim with an insurance company or in a civil case does not necessarily result in the dog being euthanized. Iowa’s strict liability law ensures that the dog’s owner pays for the victim's damages, but it doesn’t dictate the dog's fate.

Laws Surrounding Euthanizing Animals in Iowa

Animal control officers can seize a dog deemed vicious under Section 18.59 of the city ordinances. After a complaint, the dog owner has three business days to contest the claim. If uncontested, the dog can be seized and euthanized after a seven-day impoundment.

When to Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer

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.