- Keokuk Dog Bite Injury Attorneys
- Phone: 641-792-3595
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When a dog inflicts injury, dog bite injury lawyers offer reliable support to the victims. Specializing in the complex legalities of animal incidents, they manage liability and compensation to secure justice and adequate support.
What is the Law for Dogs That Have Previously Bitten Somebody?
Strict Liability for Dog Bites in Iowa
Iowa does not adhere to the "one-bite rule," which requires a dog to have previously bitten a person or exhibited aggressive behavior for the owner to be held liable. In Iowa, dog owners are strictly liable for any damages their dog causes if it bites or attacks someone. This means that victims do not need to prove the owner's negligence to recover damages. To win a case, the claimant only needs to demonstrate that the dog bit them, they suffered damages, and the defendant owns the dog. Additionally, they must prove they were not engaged in illegal activity, such as trespassing, at the time of the bite.
Reasons Dogs Bite People
Dogs may bite for various reasons, including territoriality, possessiveness, protectiveness, or fear. Biting can also be a learned behavior influenced by the dog's training and environment. For instance, dogs in abusive homes may become more aggressive and prone to biting. Owners of dogs that have previously bitten someone must take steps to prevent future attacks. City ordinances classify certain breeds, such as Staffordshire terriers and American pit bull terriers, as vicious. Dogs declared vicious must be confined or leashed appropriately to prevent attacks.
Common Types of Dog Bite Infections & Symptoms
Infection Risks from Dog Bites
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about one in five dog bites require medical attention, and 15 to 20 percent of these wounds become infected. Common pathogens from dog bites include Capnocytophaga, which is found in up to 41 percent of dogs' saliva, and the rabies virus. Other infections can be caused by bacteria like Pasteurella multocida, Pasteurella canis, Staphylococcus, and Streptococcus spp.
Risk Factors for Dog Bite Infections
Certain individuals are more susceptible to infections, including the elderly, children, and those with suppressed immune systems. The severity of the wound also affects infection risk, with deeper and more open wounds being more prone to infection. Additional risk factors include chronic diseases, unknown immunization status of the dog, edema susceptibility, alcohol consumption, and poor wound care.
Symptoms of Dog Bite Infections
Symptoms of dog bite infections include swelling or redness around the wound, warmth to the touch, yellow or white discharge, fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, red streaks around the wound, muscle aches, and headaches. Immediate medical attention is necessary if any of these symptoms are observed.
Strict Liability in Iowa
Iowa follows strict liability for dog bites, meaning dog owners are responsible for their dogs' actions unless the victim was engaging in illegal activities. This includes injuries sustained during an attack. Unlike states with a "first bite" rule, Iowa does not require proof of a dog's prior aggression for the owner to be liable.
Filing a Dog Bite Claim in Iowa
Victims of dog bites in Iowa can file claims to recover damages such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, scarring, and emotional distress. Proving the dog owner's responsibility can be challenging, but it is achievable with the help of an experienced attorney.
Liability for Dog Bites at Kennels or Veterinary Offices
Potential Liability of Kennels and Veterinary Offices
Veterinary offices and kennels can be liable if a dog in their care bites someone. These facilities often have liability insurance to cover such incidents. However, liability is not automatic and depends on factors such as the vet’s or kennel’s negligence and adherence to Iowa dog bite laws.
Determining Liability
If a dog bites someone at a vet's office or kennel, both the dog's owner and the facility could be liable. The owner's responsibility includes informing the facility about the dog's aggressive behavior. If the facility fails to take precautions, it might also be liable. Iowa Code 351 states that owners are strictly liable for bites unless the dog has rabies, which the owner did not know about.
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.