Corning Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

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

Long-term Dog Attack Effects

Dog attacks can have severe and lasting consequences, both physically and mentally. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 27,000 people in 2012 required reconstructive surgery due to dog attacks, and about 885,000 people annually need medical attention for dog bites. While some bites are minor, others cause long-term or permanent injuries. Here’s an overview of the potential long-term effects of dog attacks and the legal options available to victims.

Physical Disfigurement

Dog attacks can result in significant physical injuries that sometimes lead to permanent disfigurement, including:
- Permanent Scars: Visible reminders of the attack that may require plastic surgery.
- Paralysis or Partial Paralysis: Resulting from nerve damage.
- Mobility Problems: Due to severe injuries affecting movement.
- Amputation: In extreme cases where limbs are too damaged to be saved.

Plastic or reconstructive surgery can address some of these issues, but certain types of disfigurement, like paralysis, are often irreversible. Victims must learn to cope with these life-changing injuries.

Mental and Emotional Trauma

The psychological impact of a dog attack can be profound. Victims, especially children, may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The VA National Center for PTSD highlights trauma effects on children and adolescents, which can include:
- Acting Out: Replaying the incident during play.
- Emotional Distress: Experiencing fear, worry, stress, and anger.
- Social Withdrawal: Feelings of loneliness and isolation.
- Aggression: Increased irritability and anger.
- Inappropriate Behavior: Unusual sexual behavior or self-harm.
- Substance Abuse: Using alcohol or drugs to cope.

Children may also develop attachment disorders, showing extreme fear when separated from a parent, exhibiting withdrawal or disruptive behavior, and experiencing nightmares, flashbacks, and depression. Adults may suffer from similar symptoms, including depression and anxiety.

Infections and Disease

Though rare, infections and diseases from dog bites can be serious. Possible complications include:
- Rabies: A deadly disease if untreated.
- Wound Infections: Can spread, leading to severe health issues like sepsis, disfigurement, and loss of function.
- Amputation: May be necessary if infection spreads.
- Death: In extreme cases of untreated infections.

Prompt medical attention is crucial to mitigate these risks.

Legal Considerations and Recovering Damages

If you’re a victim of a dog attack, seeking medical care and reporting the incident immediately is essential. Additionally, consulting a personal injury attorney can help you recover damages. In Iowa, dog owners are typically held liable for attacks, according to Iowa Code Section 351.28, unless the victim was doing something unlawful that contributed to the injury.

Damages You May Be Entitled To
- Medical Expenses: Covering the cost of immediate and long-term treatment.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional trauma.
- Lost Wages: For time off work due to injuries.
- Noneconomic Costs: Other damages related to the attack’s impact on your life.

Will the Dog Be Put Down?

Filing a dog bite claim does not automatically result in the dog being euthanized. The primary purpose of a claim is to ensure the victim receives compensation. However, Corning animal control officers can seize a dog deemed vicious under Section 18.59 of Corning city ordinances. If the owner does not contest this within three business days, the dog may be impounded and euthanized after seven days.

Challenges to a Dog Bite Claim

When pursuing a dog bite claim, be prepared for potential defenses from the dog owner:
- Trespassing: Owners may argue that you were trespassing, thus contributing to the attack.
- Provocation: Owners might claim the dog was provoked.
- Rabies: If the dog had rabies and the owner was unaware, liability might be contested.

When to Hire an Attorney

If a dog attack results in significant injuries requiring medical attention or causing you to miss work, it’s wise to seek legal advice. Attorneys can help navigate the complexities of your case, counter defenses from the dog owner, and ensure you receive fair compensation.

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.