Kent Estates Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

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

Dog Bite at a Dog Park: How Negligence Determines Liability

Dog parks are fantastic places for owners to let their dogs run free and socialize. However, a fun day can quickly turn into a trip to the emergency room if a dog bite occurs. This raises questions about liability: do park users assume the risk, or does liability apply when an injury occurs?

How Negligence May Apply in an Attack at a Dog Park

In a dog park, leash laws might be relaxed, allowing dogs to run freely. However, this does not absolve dog owners of responsibility if their dog bites someone. Generally, the same rights and responsibilities apply in a dog park as outside of it. A dog owner is liable for injuries and damages caused by their dog, with limited exceptions.

Injuries Resulting from a Dog Bite at a Dog Park: Owner Liability

Negligence can play a role in some dog bite cases at a dog park, such as when an owner knowingly allows a dangerous dog off the leash. Iowa’s dog bite laws state that the dog owner is strictly liable for their dog’s actions causing injuries. Even if the owner was responsible, they are still liable for damages. 

An exception is if the dog has rabies and bites someone. The owner is not liable unless they knew the dog had rabies and could have prevented the attack. If the owner knew and still took the dog to the park, they would likely be liable.

Injuries Resulting from a Dog Bite at a Dog Park: Park Liability

Sometimes, the park owner might also be negligent and liable. For instance, if the park owner knows a dog owner consistently breaks the rules by bringing an unsafe dog but does nothing, they might be liable. However, this is complex, and typically, the dog owner alone is liable. Victims who believe the park might be liable should speak with an attorney.

If the park is privately owned, it may be easier to file a claim than if it's owned by the government, which might be immune from liability or have specific criteria for filing a claim.

Recovery of Damages from a Dog Bite at a Dog Park

Consulting with an attorney is essential to determine if you have a valid case and which party might be liable. The next step is filing a claim for damages. Legal counsel can help determine the types of compensation to seek, depending on case details.

Compensation may include medical bills, future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and damages for disfigurement if there is permanent scarring.

Practical Tips for Preventing a Dog Bite

Whether visiting a friend, going for a walk, or training a dog at home, it's important to know how to prevent dog bite injuries.

Pay Attention to a Dog’s Body Language

Understanding general dog body language can help identify a potentially dangerous dog. Signs of discomfort include:

- Tensed body
- Stiff, high tail
- Flattened ears
- Bared teeth
- Backing away
- Intense staring
- Furrowed brow

If you notice these signs, the dog is likely unhappy and potentially dangerous.

Never Invite Aggression by Staring

A dog that stares at you feels threatened. Maintaining eye contact can be interpreted as a challenge. Divert your eyes to show submission and reduce the likelihood of an attack.

Teach Your Kids How to Approach Dogs

Teach children to avoid behaviors that most dogs dislike, such as pulling ears, hugs and kisses, teasing, or disturbing them while eating, playing, or sleeping. Instead, teach them to let the dog smell them first, allow the dog to approach at its own pace, and scratch the dog’s neck and chest.

Avoid Teasing or Aggressive Games

Even non-aggressive dogs can bite if teased or engaged in aggressive games like tug-o-war. Respect dogs and avoid actions that might provoke them.

Give a Dog Its Space

Dogs may feel territorial if you enter their space. Keep your distance from dogs in their yard, bed, house, or porch.

Keep Your Dogs Leashed

To prevent your dog from biting someone, keep it leashed unless it has an off-leash dog tag issued by the municipality or county. Follow local laws and guidelines.

Get Your Dogs Spayed and Neutered

Spaying or neutering reduces aggression, decreasing the risk of a dog bite. Consult your vet about the appropriate age for this procedure.

Iowa Dog Bite Myths and Mysteries Revealed

Since 1862, Iowa law has held dog owners liable for injuries caused by their dogs. The current law states that the dog owner "shall be liable to an injured party for all damages done by the dog... attacking or attempting to bite a person, except when the party damaged is doing an unlawful act."

Common Misconceptions

- Insurance Adjusters: They work for the dog owner’s insurance company and aim to pay as little as possible. They are not obligated to protect your rights.
- Recorded Statements: You are not required to give a recorded statement to the insurance adjuster in a dog bite case. Such statements can be used against you, so consult an attorney first.
- Attorney Qualifications: Ensure your attorney has experience with personal injury cases, particularly dog bites. Look for a proven track record and positive client testimonials.

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.