Carter Lake Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

Victims of dog bites can trust dog bite injury lawyers for essential support. These attorneys specialize in the complex legalities of animal incidents, ensuring proper management of liability and compensation to achieve justice.

Recognizing the Signs of an Impending Dog Attack

If you get the feeling that a dog is going to attack, the best initial step is to give the dog space and then stand still, avoiding eye contact. Dogs can inflict severe injuries, including permanent injuries, disfigurement, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Knowing how to react in such situations is crucial to minimize harm.

Preempt the Attack by Giving the Dog a Wide Berth

Dogs display several signs when they feel angry, scared, or territorial. Recognizing these signs can help you avoid an attack:

- Tensing its body
- Raising the hair on its neck and back (raising its hackles)
- Opening its eyes wide so that you can see the whites (whale eye)
- Backing away
- Flattening its ears against its head

If you notice any of these signs, calmly move away from the dog. Often, providing enough space can prevent an attack.

Remain Motionless

If a dog is too close to avoid and appears ready to attack, remain as still as possible. Do not run or make sudden movements. Dogs are faster than humans, and staying calm may reduce the threat.

Avoid Eye Contact

Dogs interpret direct eye contact as aggressive behavior. Turn your head slightly and watch the dog from the corner of your eye, which is a submissive gesture. Dogs usually attack when they feel threatened, so showing submissiveness can help diffuse the situation.

Resist Your Impulses

Natural reactions like screaming, running, or hitting the dog can escalate the situation. Instead, remain quiet, still, and place an object (like a coat or purse) between you and the dog. If attacked, try to protect your face and remain as motionless as possible.

Understanding Your Rights as a Dog Bite Victim

In Iowa, dog bite victims have specific rights under state law. Section 351.28 of the Iowa Code states that dog owners are liable for damages caused by their dogs. Knowing your rights can help you seek appropriate compensation if attacked.

Liability of Dog Owners Under Iowa Law

Iowa law holds dog owners strictly liable for damages caused by their dogs. Exceptions include instances where the victim provoked the dog cruelly or if the dog had rabies, provided the owner was unaware and could not have reasonably prevented the injury.

Types of Compensation

Victims of dog bites in Iowa may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:

- Medical Expenses: Covers all necessary medical treatments, both past and future.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for earnings lost due to the injury.
- Future Loss of Earnings: For permanent limitations on earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and mental anguish.
- Loss of Full Mind and Body: Reimbursement for any loss of function or use.
- Disfigurement: Compensation for scarring or unsightly marks.
- Damage to Relationships: For loss of companionship or assistance from a child or spouse.
- Death: Damages for wrongful death, including loss of consortium and the deceased's lost earnings.

Cost of Treatment for Dog Bites in a Personal Injury Claim in Iowa

Dog bite treatment can lead to significant medical costs. The financial burden often becomes a concern after the immediate medical crisis is addressed.

Injuries and Damage After a Dog Bite

A dog attack can result in various injuries and damages, including:

- Torn clothing
- Scratches and bruises
- Deep cuts and puncture wounds
- Loss of tissue or limbs
- Nerve and bone damage
- Disfigurement

Emotional distress and psychological therapy may also be necessary, further increasing costs.

Dealing with Medical Costs

Medical bills can escalate quickly, especially with severe injuries requiring prolonged treatment. Costs may include:

- Ambulance and hospital services
- Sutures and staples
- Reconstructive surgeries
- Prescription medications
- Mental health services and counseling
- Follow-up appointments

The average cost of a dog bite claim was over $64,555 in 2011. Victims may file a claim for compensation to cover these expenses, lost wages, and emotional damages.

Recovering Damages and Liability After a Dog Bite in Iowa

Understanding the legal aspects of recovering damages after a dog bite is crucial for ensuring adequate compensation.

Effects of Dog Bite Disfigurement

Disfigurement from dog bites, especially on visible areas like the face, hands, and arms, can lead to social and psychological challenges. Victims might feel self-conscious, avoid social situations, and experience negative self-perceptions.

Treatments for Emotional Injuries

Emotional injuries from dog bites may require ongoing treatments, such as:

- Cognitive techniques
- Psychotherapy
- Psychosocial interventions
- Physiotherapy
- Speech therapy
- EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
- Counseling
- Medications

These treatments aim to address the complex psychological challenges faced by dog bite victims.

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.