Corydon Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

When a dog bite results in injury, dog bite attorneys offer essential assistance. They navigate the intricate legal landscape of animal attacks, expertly managing liability and compensation to ensure justice and support for victims.

Treatment and Legal Considerations for Deep Dog Bite Injuries

Dog attacks are a serious issue in the United States, with millions of people affected each year. When these attacks result in deep bites, the treatment often involves stitches or staples to close the wounds. If you or your child has sustained a dog attack injury, it's essential to seek medical attention immediately and consider consulting a personal injury law firm to discuss your legal options.

Types of Dog Bite Injuries

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 4.5 million Americans are bitten by dogs annually, and one in five of these bites requires medical attention. In severe cases, dog bites can lead to significant health complications, disfigurement, or even death. Common injuries from dog attacks include:

- Tissue tears
- Deep lacerations
- Fractures
- Crushing injuries
- Puncture wounds

Doctors often use staples and sutures to treat large or deep wounds. However, the decision to use stitches or staples depends on various factors, including the location of the bite and the risk of infection. Medical professionals will evaluate your specific situation to determine the best treatment plan, aiming to minimize scarring and infection risk.

Complications of Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bite wounds can lead to several complications, such as:

- Infection
- Scarring
- Disfigurement
- Damage to muscles or tendons

Emotional injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), are also common after a dog attack. Victims may need mental health support to deal with the psychological aftermath of the attack.

Caring for Deep Dog Bite Wounds

Proper aftercare is crucial to prevent complications from dog bites. Follow your doctor's instructions, which may include:

- Keeping the wound clean
- Bandaging the wound
- Applying ice and elevating the injury
- Taking prescribed medications, such as antibiotics and pain relievers
- Receiving a tetanus shot if recommended

Adhering to these guidelines can help ensure a smooth recovery.

Steps to Take After a Dog Attack

If you or a loved one has been attacked by a dog, immediate medical attention is the first priority. After that, consider the following steps:

1. Contact local authorities if the dog poses a continued threat.
2. Obtain information about the dog's rabies vaccinations from the owner.
3. Consult a personal injury law firm experienced in handling dog attack cases.

Legal Considerations: Does the Dog's Breed Matter?

In Iowa, the breed of the dog does not typically impact the owner's liability in a dog bite case. Iowa law holds dog owners responsible for damages caused by their dogs, with few exceptions. These exceptions include situations where the injured person was engaged in an unlawful act that directly contributed to the injury or if the dog had rabies and the owner did not know or could not have reasonably known about it.

While certain breeds are classified as dangerous or vicious in some Iowa cities, this generally does not affect the owner's liability. However, failure to comply with local laws regarding the containment and insurance of such breeds can be relevant in a legal claim.

Recovering Damages in a Dog Bite Injury Claim

Victims of dog attacks can seek compensation for various damages, including:

- Medical costs (e.g., antibiotics, medical care, surgery, reconstructive surgery)
- Lost wages due to recovery time
- Emotional distress, especially in cases of severe physical harm or permanent disfigurement

Iowa law also allows recovery of emotional distress damages for those who witness a severe attack.

Evidence Needed for a Dog Bite Claim

Iowa imposes strict liability on dog owners, meaning they are responsible for damages caused by their dogs unless the victim was performing an illegal act. To file a successful claim, you need to provide evidence of:

1. The dog in question being the one that bit you.
2. The injuries sustained from the bite.
3. No illegal activity on your part at the time of the bite.

Under case law, proving the owner's negligence can result in higher compensation. This involves demonstrating that the owner knew or should have known the dog was dangerous and failed to take appropriate measures to prevent the attack.

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.