Center Point Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

Dog bite attorneys become invaluable advocates for victims when a dog inflicts injury. Their deep understanding of animal-related legal matters enables them to adeptly handle liability and compensation issues to secure justice and aid for those harmed.

Comprehensive Guide on Dog Bite Laws and Dangerous Dog Regulations in Iowa

Owning a dog in Iowa comes with significant responsibilities, especially if your pet is declared a vicious dog. Iowa law has stringent requirements for harboring dangerous dogs to ensure public safety and prevent incidents.

When is a Dog Considered Dangerous?

A dog is deemed dangerous or vicious by the city’s animal control authority based on several forms of probable cause, including:
- Written complaints from citizens
- Dog bite reports
- Actions witnessed by law enforcement or animal control officers
- Verified reports of previous dangerous behavior
- Other substantial evidence

Special License, Certificate, and Requirements

If your dog is declared dangerous, you must obtain a special license and certificate within 30 days. The requirements include:
- Keeping the dog confined within your property
- Posting a warning sign indicating the dog’s dangerous nature
- Displaying a warning symbol understandable to children and the illiterate
- Obtaining a surety bond of at least $250,000 from an insurer

Liability for Dog Bites in Center Point

In Center Point, dog owners are held strictly liable under the theory of strict liability if their dangerous or non-dangerous dog bites or attacks someone, provided the victim was not committing an illegal act at the time. It’s crucial for owners of dangerous dogs to carry a surety bond of no less than $250,000.

Dog parks offer a space for dogs to run free and socialize, but they also present risks of dog bites. Liability for these incidents depends on various factors, including the negligence of the dog owner or park management.

Negligence and Owner Liability

While leash laws might not apply in designated dog parks, owners are still liable for injuries their dogs cause. Iowa’s dog bite laws hold owners strictly liable for their dogs' actions, regardless of the owner’s negligence, with limited exceptions.

Injuries and Park Liability

In some cases, the park owner might be liable, particularly if they are aware of a dangerous dog frequenting the park and fail to take action. However, most liability falls on the dog owner.

Iowa does not adhere to the "one-bite rule." Instead, dog owners are strictly liable for damages caused by their dog’s bite, regardless of whether the dog has bitten someone before. 

Reasons Dogs Bite

Dogs may bite due to territoriality, possessiveness, protection, fear, or learned behavior. Owners must take steps to prevent future incidents, especially if their dog has bitten before.

Legal Requirements and Ordinances

Center Point’ ordinances classify dogs that have attacked as vicious, requiring them to be confined or leashed. Specific breeds are automatically deemed vicious, including Staffordshire terriers and pit bulls.

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.