Huxley Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

Victims of dog bites can rely on dog bite injury lawyers as valuable supporters. These attorneys specialize in the complex legalities of animal-related incidents, managing liability and compensation to ensure justice and support.

When Dog Bites Child: The Long-Term Aftereffects

Children are the most frequent victims of dog bites in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), close to 4.5 million dog bites occur annually in the U.S., with about half involving children, particularly those between the ages of five and nine. A dog bite is frightening enough for an adult, but the trauma is significantly more intense for a child due to their smaller size and less resilient skin, often resulting in severe injuries and long-term consequences.

Common Injuries

When a dog bites a child, common injuries include:
- Ripped scalp
- Torn ears
- Injuries to the mouth
- Eye injuries

These injuries can lead to long-term damage even after apparent healing. For instance, severed nerves can result in weakened facial muscles, leading to a drooping appearance or impaired facial expressions. Scarring is another significant concern, as dog bites often cause deep wounds affecting not just the skin but also the flesh and bone. Such scars can be bumpy and disfiguring, sometimes requiring multiple reconstructive surgeries with varying degrees of success. Facial injuries involving both skin and bones may cause disfigurement that becomes more pronounced as the child grows, potentially resulting in facial asymmetry.

Emotional Consequences of a Dog Bite

While children may eventually cope with the physical effects of a dog bite, the emotional consequences can persist for years. According to research by the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, children who have suffered a dog bite often experience a range of long-term emotional reactions, including:
- Separation anxiety
- Excessive crying
- Withdrawal
- Disruptive behavior
- Sleep problems
- Irrational fears
- Nightmares
- Problems in school
- Feelings of guilt
- Emotional numbing
- Depression
- Flashbacks
- Avoidance
- Lack of trust

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

A major risk following a dog bite is the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Symptoms of PTSD may not manifest immediately but can emerge weeks or months after the incident. Common symptoms include:
- Jumpiness
- Frequent crying
- Anxiety
- Poor performance in school
- Lost interest in activities
- Concentration problems
- Nightmares

The physical, emotional, and psychological effects of a dog bite can significantly impact a child's self-esteem, confidence, and emotional growth, affecting their ability to participate in school, activities, and social interactions.

Legal Aspects and Compensation for Dog Bites

Strict Liability in Iowa

Iowa follows a strict liability rule for dog bites, meaning dog owners are liable for damages caused by their dog if it bites or attacks a person, regardless of the dog's history of aggression. Victims do not need to prove the owner was negligent to recover damages. They must demonstrate only that the dog bit them, they suffered damages, and the defendant owns the dog. The law excludes situations where the victim was engaged in illegal activity (like trespassing) at the time of the bite.

Compensation for Damages

Damages claimed after a dog bite attack should include both physical and emotional components:
- Emergency room and ambulance costs
- Long-term care, such as home-schooling if the child has PTSD
- Psychological counseling
- Follow-up surgeries

Understanding Aggressive Dog Breeds

Certain dog breeds have a reputation for being aggressive, but any dog can attack or bite under specific circumstances. Training, environment, and the owner's behavior significantly influence a dog's likelihood of biting. According to insurance companies, the five breeds most often associated with dog bite injuries are:
- Presa Canario
- Doberman Pinscher
- Husky
- German Shepherd
- Rottweiler

Reporting and Legal Options

Victims of dog bites should report the incident and may file a personal injury claim or lawsuit against the dog owner. They can recover both economic and non-economic damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and disfigurement.

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.