Leon Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

When dogs cause injury, dog bite lawyers become dependable allies. They specialize in the legal intricacies of animal attacks, ensuring victims receive proper management of liability and compensation for justice and support.

Understanding Iowa's Dog Bite Laws and Legal Recourse for Victims

Iowa has stringent laws regarding dog bites, providing clear guidance on the liability of dog owners. Unlike some states, Iowa does not adhere to the "one-bite rule," which means a dog owner can be held liable for damages caused by their dog, regardless of whether the dog has previously bitten someone or shown aggressive tendencies.

Under Iowa law, dog owners are strictly liable for any damages their dog causes if it bites or attacks a person. Victims do not need to prove the owner's negligence; they must only demonstrate that the dog bit them, that they suffered damages, and that the defendant owns the dog. Additionally, victims must show that they were not engaged in illegal activities, such as trespassing, at the time of the bite.

Why Dogs Bite

Dogs can exhibit aggressive behavior for various reasons, including territoriality, possessiveness, protectiveness, fear, or learned behavior. A dog's environment and training play significant roles in its likelihood to bite. For instance, a dog from an abusive home may be more prone to aggression.

Owners of dogs that have previously bitten someone must take steps to prevent further attacks. In Leon, for example, city ordinances classify a dog as vicious if it has attacked or shown a disposition to attack, cause injury, bite, or snap at a person. Specific breeds, such as Staffordshire terriers and pit bulls, are also considered vicious. These dogs must be confined in a house, pen, or kennel or kept on a leash no longer than six feet and cannot be leashed to inanimate objects like trees.

Victims' Legal Options

Dog bite victims in Iowa can file personal injury claims or lawsuits against dog owners. They may seek both economic damages (e.g., medical expenses, lost wages, and out-of-pocket costs) and non-economic damages (e.g., pain and suffering, disfigurement). Given the strict liability standard in Iowa, the threshold for proving a dog bite case is relatively low, making it easier for victims to receive compensation for their injuries.

Challenges to Dog Bite Claims

Despite the clear liability laws, dog bite claims can face challenges from dog owners. Common defenses include:

- Trespassing: Dog owners may claim that the victim was trespassing, which could absolve them of liability. However, if trespassing did not contribute to the injury, the owner may still be liable.
- Provocation: Owners might argue that the victim provoked the dog. The definition of provocation can vary, and an attorney can help clarify the situation.
- Rabies: If the dog had rabies and the owner did not know or could not reasonably know, they might not be liable. However, negligence in handling the dog could still lead to liability.

Victims with severe injuries requiring medical attention or time off work should seek legal advice promptly. Walker, Billingsley & Bair can provide guidance and representation for these cases.

Common Infections from Dog Bites

Approximately 15-20% of dog bite wounds become infected. Common infections include:

- Capnocytophaga: Found in up to 41% of dogs' saliva.
- Rabies: Responsible for most human rabies cases globally.
- Pasteurella: Can cause serious infections.
- Staphylococcus and Streptococcus: Common pathogens in dog bites.

Certain individuals, such as the elderly, children, and those with suppressed immune systems, are more susceptible to infections. Symptoms of infection include swelling, redness, warmth around the wound, discharge, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and red streaks around the wound. Seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur.

Filing a Dog Bite Claim

Victims of dog bites in Iowa can file claims to recover damages for:

- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Emotional distress

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.