Centerville Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

In the event of a dog-related injury, dog bite injury attorneys offer essential support to the victims. Their expertise in animal law allows them to adeptly handle the complexities of liability and compensation, aiming for justice and assistance for those harmed.

If you or someone you know is involved in a dog attack, it's important to take immediate and appropriate actions. Reporting the incident, seeking medical attention, and understanding your legal rights are critical steps. This comprehensive guide outlines what to do following a dog attack and how to handle the subsequent legal and health challenges.

Reporting a Dog Attack

It is generally advisable to report a dog attack, particularly if:

- The attack results in serious injury.
- The dog is not contained and poses a continued danger.
- The animal appears sick.

Victims can also consult a personal injury attorney in Iowa for assistance in collecting evidence and presenting a claim for damages against the dog’s owner.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite or Attack

1. Ensure Safety: First, secure your safety and that of others by separating yourself from the animal and moving to a safe location.
2. Clean the Wound: If possible, wash the area thoroughly with soap and water.
3. Seek Medical Attention: Visit a doctor or an emergency room for evaluation and treatment.
4. Report the Incident: Call animal control or your local police department to report the dog attack.

In addition to these steps, collect information about the dog, its owner, the incident, and any witnesses. This information may be crucial if you decide to pursue a dog bite injury claim in Iowa. Under Iowa Code 351.28, the dog owner is liable for damages caused by their dog.

Legal Assistance and Compensation

Consulting with a personal injury attorney in Iowa can help you explore legal options. An attorney can assist in establishing owner liability, collecting necessary evidence, and filing a claim.

Types of Compensation

If you’ve been bitten by a dog, you may be entitled to compensation for:

- Medical costs
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering

Possible Diseases from Dog Bites

Dog bites can transmit several diseases, some of which can be life-threatening. Here are a few to be aware of:

1. Rabies: Attacks the central nervous system and can be fatal if not treated promptly. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain, brain inflammation, seizures, paralysis, and coma.
2. Staph Infection: Caused by staph bacteria, which can enter deep tissues through bite wounds, causing pain, fever, and severe headaches.
3. Pasteurella Infection: This bacterium can cause pain, swelling, and joint infections.
4. Tetanus: Affects the nervous system, leading to muscle spasms and contractions like lockjaw. A tetanus shot may be necessary if you haven’t had one recently.

Filing a Dog Bite Claim

To file a claim for a dog bite injury, seek medical attention and then contact a personal injury lawyer. An attorney can help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. It's crucial to handle these claims carefully and accurately.

Dealing with Insurance Adjusters

When dealing with insurance adjusters, follow these tips:

1. Tell the Truth: Always be honest, as any dishonesty can damage your credibility.
2. Keep Records: Document your damages, keep a diary of interactions, and track medical visits and missed work.
3. Medical Records: Keep detailed records of your injuries, treatment, and doctor visits, as these will be critical for your claim.

Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, so it’s wise to have legal representation. A lawyer can help ensure you receive fair compensation and avoid accepting a premature settlement that may not cover all your damages.

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.