Ottumwa Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

Dog bite injury lawyers become vital advocates for victims when a dog causes harm. With a focus on the legal intricacies of animal attacks, they skillfully handle liability and compensation issues to ensure justice and support.

Understanding the Need for Legal Assistance After a Dog Attack

Dog attacks can result in severe injuries that may require hospitalization, surgery, and extensive time off from work. During this challenging period, having a dog bite lawyer in Iowa can be crucial to protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation. A lawyer with expertise in Iowa dog bite law can guide you through your legal options and handle the complexities of your case.

The Role of a Dog Bite Lawyer

Handling a dog bite case on your own can be stressful and may lead to unnecessary conflicts. Victims often make accusations that aren't necessary under Iowa law, which can complicate the settlement process. A knowledgeable lawyer can manage these accusations, reducing stress and ensuring a smooth process. 

A skilled attorney will approach the case strategically, without confronting the dog's owners unless absolutely necessary. If the situation requires confrontation, the lawyer will seek your permission first. This approach is particularly beneficial if the dog belongs to a neighbor or friend, as it helps preserve relationships while still pursuing justice.

Compensation for Dog Bite Injuries

An Iowa dog bite attorney will ensure that all potential future medical expenses are considered, not just current ones. Severe injuries may require multiple surgeries, long-term physical therapy, and rehabilitation. Compensation can cover these future medical bills, missed work time, and emotional trauma, including scarring and disfigurement.

Visible scars, especially on the face, hands, arms, or legs, can be a lifelong reminder of the attack. Compensation for such emotional distress should be included in your claim. A dedicated lawyer will work to secure the full value of your case, addressing both physical and emotional damages.

Settling Your Dog Bite Case

Once your claim is settled, the dog’s owners may realize that hiring an attorney was necessary for a fair outcome. Hiring a dog bite lawyer does not always mean filing a lawsuit; sometimes, an attorney’s role is to negotiate with the insurance company to settle the case outside of court. This approach often results in a fair and complete settlement.

Does the Breed of Dog Matter in an Injury Claim?

In Iowa, the breed of the dog does not affect the owner’s liability for an attack. Dog owners are responsible for the damages their dogs cause, except in certain circumstances. For instance, if the victim was engaged in an unlawful act at the time of the attack, or if the dog suffers from hydrophobia (rabies), the owner's liability may be limited. However, owners are still responsible if they knew or should have known about the dog’s illness.

Breed-Specific Laws

Some cities in Iowa have declared certain breeds dangerous or vicious, imposing specific restrictions or bans on ownership. These breeds often include Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Akitas, Dobermans, and Presa Canarios. Owners of these breeds may need to take additional precautions, such as obtaining insurance and ensuring proper confinement.

Recovering Damages

Compensation for a dog bite injury can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. Victims may also claim damages for future medical treatments, such as reconstructive surgery, and for the trauma of witnessing a severe attack.

Harboring a Dangerous Dog: Special Rules and Liability

A dog is considered dangerous or vicious when declared so by the city’s animal control authority, based on evidence such as citizen complaints, dog bite reports, and previous dangerous behavior. Once declared dangerous, the owner must obtain a special license and certificate within 30 days.

Requirements for Dangerous Dogs

Owners of dangerous dogs must:
- Keep the dog confined within their property.
- Post warning signs about the dog’s nature.
- Obtain a surety bond of at least $250,000.

Liability for Dog Bites

Under Des Moines' strict liability laws, owners of dangerous or non-dangerous dogs are liable for bites and attacks, provided the victim was not engaged in illegal activity at the time. Carrying a surety bond is crucial for dog owners to cover potential liabilities.

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.