Ely Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

Dog bite injury lawyers become crucial allies for those injured by dogs. Their expertise in animal-related legal matters allows them to effectively handle liability and compensation complexities, securing justice and proper aid.

What Are Commonly Considered Aggressive Dog Breeds?

Some dogs have a reputation for being among the most aggressive and dangerous dog breeds. However, any dog can attack and bite another person or animal, depending on various factors such as training, owner behavior, and circumstances leading to the bite or attack (e.g., teasing or scaring the dog). Annually, nearly 4.7 million injuries in the United States are due to dog bites. Insurance companies often identify the following five dog breeds as being most frequently associated with dog bite injuries and fatalities:

- Presa Canario: A mix of a mastiff and a pit bull, often used for herding cattle. These dogs can weigh up to 125 pounds and stand about 25 inches tall.
- Doberman Pinscher: Bred to guard their owners and respond immediately when threatened. Avoid violent or aggressive play with this breed.
- Husky: These dogs have complex personalities and can be dangerous in the hands of inexperienced owners.
- German Shepherd: Known for their bravery and confidence, which is why they are often used in police work. However, this confidence can sometimes lead to aggression.
- Rottweiler: They often dislike unfamiliar people and animals. Their strong jaws make them effective defenders of their owners.

Other breeds often listed as aggressive include pit bulls, wolf hybrids, and Malamutes. Cesar Milan, a well-known dog trainer, notes that while any dog can be made aggressive, the damage potential is higher with larger breeds like pit bulls compared to smaller breeds like Chihuahuas.

Vicious Dog Declarations in Iowa

Due to the aggressive reputation of some breeds, many cities have laws automatically declaring certain dogs as dangerous or vicious. 

A dog can be declared vicious if it:
- Attacks a human or domestic animal without provocation.
- Has a history or tendency to attack or cause injury.
- Snaps or bites or shows signs of potentially biting.
- Has been trained for dog fighting or to attack humans (except police and military dogs).

Filing a Dog Bite Claim

In Iowa, the breed of the dog does not matter when filing a dog bite claim. Iowa's strict liability laws mean that the dog owner is liable for damages regardless of the dog's history or the breed. If a dog has bitten you, contact an attorney to discuss your case.

Ten Preventable Mistakes Iowans Make After a Dog Bite or Attack

Being attacked by a dog can be a traumatic experience, leaving victims scared and confused. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure proper recovery and fair treatment by insurance companies.

1. Failing to Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Always seek medical attention immediately after an attack to document injuries, even minor ones, as they can worsen over time.

2. Not Disclosing the Whole Truth: Provide complete and honest medical histories to your healthcare provider. Concealing prior injuries can impact your care and your legal case.

3. Failing to Document Pain Accurately: Make sure your pain is thoroughly documented in your medical records. Writing down your pain levels and giving it to your doctor can be helpful.

4. Missing or Being Late for Medical Appointments: Regularly attend all medical appointments. Missing appointments can reflect poorly on your commitment to recovery.

5. Not Informing Your Doctor About Work-Related Issues: If your injury affects your ability to work, inform your doctor. Work-related issues should be noted in your medical records.

6. Not Taking Medications as Prescribed: Follow your doctor’s medication instructions. Inform your doctor if you experience side effects rather than discontinuing medication on your own.

7. Stopping Medical Treatment Too Soon: Continue medical treatment until fully healed or advised otherwise by a doctor. Significant gaps between treatments can harm your claim.

8. Discussing Legal Matters with Your Doctor: Focus on your medical condition with your doctor. Discussing your lawsuit can affect their willingness to treat you.

9. Ignoring Treatment for Depression or Anxiety: Psychological conditions related to your injury should be treated and documented, as they are compensable.

10. Failing to Keep a File: Keep a file of all medical records, doctor’s orders, and communications from insurance companies to provide complete information to your attorney.

Challenges to a Dog Bite Claim and How to Address Them

Dog bites can sometimes cause severe injuries, leading to significant medical bills, lost work time, and pain and suffering. When pursuing a dog bite claim, be prepared for potential challenges from the dog owner.

Legal Liability

Iowa law (Iowa Code 351.28) holds dog owners liable for damages caused by their dogs unless the victim was engaging in an unlawful act that contributed to the injury.

Common Defenses by Dog Owners

- Trespassing: Owners may claim the victim was trespassing. Liability depends on whether the trespassing contributed to the injury.
- Provocation: Owners may argue the dog was provoked. Determining provocation can be subjective and may require legal evaluation.
- Rabies: Owners may not be liable if the dog had rabies, and the owner was unaware. However, negligence in handling the dog can still result in liability.

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.