Akron Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

When dogs cause harm, dog bite injury lawyers are reliable allies. They specialize in the legal intricacies of animal attacks, ensuring victims receive proper management of liability and compensation for justice and support.

A dog bite can indeed cause nerve damage. The powerful jaws of a dog can injure not only nerves but also tendons, muscles, and bones. Here’s a detailed look at how dog bites can cause nerve damage, the signs to look out for, and the legal implications for dog bite claims in Iowa.

Ways a Dog Bite Can Cause Nerve Damage

Neuropraxia: This is the least serious type of nerve damage because it stretches nerves without severing them. It can occur from crushing injuries caused by the bite or when an attack results in a dislocation or fracture. Recovery can take anywhere from a few hours to several months.

Axonotmesis: This is a more serious injury where the nerve fibers are damaged, affecting muscle and motor function. Recovery can take from a few months to years.

Neurotmesis: This is the most severe type of injury where the nerve is completely severed. If it's a clean cut, surgical repair may be possible, but the recovery process is slow, and in many cases, the damage may be irreparable. This can result in permanent abnormal sensations or movements.

Signs of Nerve Damage After a Dog Bite

Motor Nerve Damage: 
- Weakness
- Paralysis
- Fasciculation (twitching)
- Muscle atrophy (wasting)

Sensory Nerve Damage: 
- Burning sensations
- Numbness
- Pain
- Prickling or tingling
- Difficulties with positional awareness

How Nerve Damage May Impact a Dog Bite Claim

Nerve damage can occur in various parts of the body, including the face and hands. Additional injuries, such as fractures or infections from open wounds, can complicate recovery and increase the value of a dog bite claim. Dog owner liability depends on state laws, and in Iowa, it's relatively straightforward to hold an owner liable for damages unless the victim was acting unlawfully.

Recoverable Damages:
- Medical Costs: Including surgeries and cosmetic procedures.
- Lost Earnings: Covering time missed from work during recovery.
- Pain and Suffering: For physical pain and emotional distress.
- Permanent Disfigurement: Compensation for long-term changes in appearance.

Rabies vaccination is critical for preventing the spread of rabies, a deadly disease. Iowa law mandates rabies vaccinations for dogs to protect public health.

Iowa Rabies Vaccination Law: According to Iowa Annotated Statute § 351.33, dog owners must vaccinate their dogs against rabies. Dogs six months of age or older must be vaccinated. Unvaccinated dogs running at large can be impounded by local authorities. Owners have one week to provide proof of vaccination or have the dog vaccinated, or the dog may be euthanized.

Exemptions:
- Dogs under six months of age
- Dogs kept in kennels and not allowed to run at large
- Dogs in transit for less than 30 days
- Dogs exhibited for less than 30 days
- Dogs assigned to research facilities

Vaccinations must be administered by licensed veterinarians, and dogs must wear a rabies tag on their collar at all times.

Understanding the legal aspects of dog bite liability and compensation in Iowa is crucial for victims seeking justice.

Liability of Dog Owners: According to Iowa Code § 351.28, dog owners are generally liable for damages caused by their dogs biting someone, regardless of the owner's negligence. Exceptions include cases where the victim provoked the dog or if the dog had rabies and the owner did not know.

Types of Dog Bite Compensation:
- Medical Expenses: Covering all treatment-related costs.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work.
- Future Loss of Earnings: For permanent limitations on earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: For physical and emotional distress.
- Loss of Full Mind and Body: Compensation for loss of bodily functions.
- Disfigurement: For permanent scarring and its associated emotional impact.
- Damage to Marital or Parental Relationships: Compensation for the impact on familial relationships.
- Death: Wrongful death damages for the family of the deceased.

The Effects of Dog Bite Disfigurement

Disfigurement from a dog bite can lead to significant emotional and psychological challenges. Victims may experience social anxiety, lowered self-esteem, and negative body image. Treatments for emotional injuries may include cognitive techniques, psychotherapy, psychosocial interventions, physiotherapy, speech therapy, EMDR, counseling, lifestyle changes, and medications.

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.