Granger Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

Victims of dog bites can trust dog bite injury lawyers for essential support. These attorneys specialize in the complex legalities of animal incidents, ensuring proper management of liability and compensation to achieve justice.

Dog attacks can have severe and long-lasting impacts on victims, both physically and emotionally. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 27,000 people in 2012 required reconstructive surgery due to dog attacks. Annually, approximately 885,000 people need medical attention following dog bites. While some dog bites are minor, others result in significant, long-term injuries. This article explores the various long-term effects of dog attacks and the importance of seeking legal assistance to recover damages.

Physical Disfigurement

Dog attacks can lead to permanent physical injuries, including:
- Permanent Scars: Visible marks that remain after healing.
- Paralysis or Partial Paralysis: Loss of muscle function in part of the body.
- Mobility Problems: Difficulty moving due to injuries.
- Amputation: Loss of limbs due to severe damage.

In some cases, reconstructive surgery can address disfigurement, but certain injuries, like paralysis, may be irreversible. Victims must learn to cope with these disabilities for the rest of their lives.

Mental and Emotional Trauma

The psychological impact of a dog attack can be profound, particularly in children. Victims may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), characterized by various symptoms:
- Children: Acting out the incident, fear, worry, stress, anger, loneliness, aggression, inappropriate sexual behavior, self-harm, substance abuse, impulsive behavior, attachment disorders, extreme withdrawal, disruptive behavior, nightmares, flashbacks, and depression.
- Adults: Nightmares, flashbacks, depression, anxiety, and other PTSD-related symptoms.

Infections and Disease

Dog bites can lead to infections and diseases that, while rare, can have severe consequences:
- Rabies: A deadly virus if untreated.
- Wound Infections: Can spread and cause severe health issues like sepsis, amputation, loss of function, and even death.

Prompt medical care is crucial to prevent these complications.

Legal Considerations and Recovering Damages

If you are attacked by a dog, it is essential to seek medical care immediately and report the incident. Consult a personal injury attorney to understand your rights and the potential for recovering damages. In Iowa, dog owners can be held liable for injuries their pets cause under strict liability laws.

Types of Compensation

Victims of dog attacks may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical Bills: Current and future medical expenses.
- Pain and Suffering: Physical and emotional distress.
- Lost Wages: Income lost due to inability to work.
- Long-term Care: Costs associated with ongoing medical needs.

Special Considerations for Child Victims

Children are particularly vulnerable to the long-term effects of dog bites. Beyond physical injuries, they may experience emotional distress requiring medication and psychological therapy. This can lead to significant family stress and financial burdens due to missed work for caregiving responsibilities.

Physical Injuries in Children

Common physical injuries from dog bites in children include:
- Torn and Bloody Clothing
- Scratches, Bruises, and Deep Cuts
- Puncture Wounds and Loss of Tissue
- Broken or Crushed Bones
- Disfigurement

These injuries often necessitate extensive medical treatment, including surgeries, medications, and therapy.

Emotional and Psychological Impact

Children may exhibit persistent fears, attachment disorders, and behavioral issues after a dog attack. This emotional distress can disrupt family dynamics and affect the child's ability to concentrate and form relationships.

What to Do if a Dog is About to Attack

If you sense a dog is about to attack, take the following steps to protect yourself:
- Give the Dog Space: Move away calmly if the dog shows signs of aggression, such as tensing its body, raising its hackles, showing the whites of its eyes, backing away, or flattening its ears.
- Remain Motionless: If escape is not possible, stand still and avoid eye contact to reduce the perceived threat.
- Avoid Eye Contact: Look away or use peripheral vision to monitor the dog without direct eye contact, which can be seen as aggressive.
- Resist Impulses: Do not scream, run, or fight back. Instead, use an object to shield yourself if necessary.

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.