Lone Tree Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

In cases of dog-related injuries, dog bite attorneys offer reliable advocacy for victims. Specializing in animal law, they navigate the complexities of liability and compensation to achieve justice and support for the injured.

Does it Matter What Breed of Dog Attacked Me When Filing an Injury Claim?

When a dog attack occurs, the breed of the dog is not a primary factor in determining liability. Under Iowa law, the dog's owner is responsible for the damages caused by their pet, except in specific circumstances.

Impact of Iowa Dog Bite Laws in an Injury Claim

Iowa has stringent laws regarding dog owner liability. In most cases, if a dog bites or attacks a person, causing injury, the victim is entitled to compensation for their damages. Exceptions include situations where the injured person was engaged in unlawful activities that directly contributed to the injury, such as trespassing or breaking into someone's home. Another exception is if the dog has hydrophobia (a symptom of rabies), though the owner may still be liable if they knew or should have known about the dog’s condition.

Could the Dog’s Breed Come Up in an Injury Claim?

Certain cities in Iowa have declared specific breeds as automatically dangerous or vicious. This classification often applies to dogs with a history of biting or attacking or those trained to fight. Some localities impose restrictions or outright bans on these breeds. Breeds typically listed as dangerous include Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Akitas, Dobermans, and Presa Canarios. Other breeds, such as Chows and Bulldogs, may be labeled potentially dangerous.

Owners of these breeds must adhere to special precautions, which might include carrying insurance and ensuring the dog is confined properly. While the breed itself doesn't affect the owner's liability for injuries and damages, failure to comply with local laws can be brought up if it contributed to the injuries.

Recovering Damages in a Dog Attack Injury Claim

Victims of dog attacks can seek compensation for various damages, including:
- Medical costs (antibiotics, medical care, surgery, reconstructive surgery)
- Lost wages during recovery
- Emotional distress, especially in cases of serious harm or permanent disfigurement

Iowa law allows victims to recover damages for emotional distress, particularly if they witnessed a severe attack.

Harboring a Dangerous Dog: Special Rules for Vicious Dogs

Owning a dog comes with significant responsibilities, and even more so if the dog is declared vicious. According to Code 8.16.030, a dog can be deemed dangerous based on:
- Written complaints from citizens
- Dog bite reports
- Observations by law enforcement or animal control officers
- Verified reports of previous dangerous behavior
- Other substantial evidence

Once a dog is declared dangerous, the owner must obtain a special license and certificate within 30 days. This includes:
- Keeping the dog confined within the property
- Posting warning signs about the dog
- Obtaining a surety bond of at least $250,000

In Lone Tree, owners of dangerous dogs are held under strict liability if their dog bites or attacks another person or animal. This strict liability also applies to non-dangerous dogs, provided the victim was not engaging in illegal activities at the time of the attack.

Treatment for Psychological Dog Bite Injuries

Dog attacks can result in significant psychological injuries, requiring treatment beyond physical care. Victims may experience fear, anxiety, and embarrassment due to disfiguring injuries. Psychological treatment might include:
- Seeing a psychologist or psychiatrist to discuss social implications and coping strategies
- Counseling for emotional injuries such as PTSD
- Medication for anxiety or depression

These psychological treatment costs, along with physical treatment expenses, can be included in a compensation claim for emotional distress and pain and suffering.

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.