Monona Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

Dog bite injury lawyers become crucial allies for those injured by dogs. Their expertise in animal-related legal matters allows them to effectively handle liability and compensation complexities, securing justice and proper aid.

Understanding dog bite circumstances and legal recourses in Iowa involves recognizing various factors that can lead to a dog bite, knowing the state's dog bite laws, and understanding how to seek compensation if bitten. Here's a detailed overview:

Circumstances Making a Dog More Likely to Attack or Bite

1. Fear:
- Dogs may exhibit fear aggression when scared. If they cannot escape, they may bite as a defense mechanism. Approaching a scared dog calmly and from the front can help prevent an attack.

2. Territorial Aggression:
- Dogs may bite to protect their territory, including their home, yard, or even their owner. Intruding on a dog’s perceived territory can provoke an aggressive response.

3. Protecting Their Owner:
- Dogs are naturally protective of their owners and family. They may react aggressively to defend their owner from perceived threats.

4. Being Taunted, Teased, or Attacked:
- Dogs may bite if they feel taunted, teased, or attacked. Defensive aggression is a natural response when a dog feels endangered. Avoiding such behaviors around dogs is essential.

Dog Bite Law in Iowa

In Iowa, understanding your rights and legal options after a dog bite is crucial. Here are key points regarding dog bite laws in Iowa:

1. Strict Liability:
- Under Iowa Code 351, dog owners are generally strictly liable if their dog bites someone, regardless of the dog's previous behavior or the owner's knowledge of aggression. Exceptions exist if the dog had rabies and the owner was unaware.

2. Legal Recourse:
- If bitten, you can seek compensation for medical bills, pain, and suffering. Consulting a lawyer to explore potential damages is advisable.

Filing a Dog Bite Lawsuit Against a Kennel or Veterinary Office

Kennels and veterinary offices can be held liable if a dog bites someone at their facility, but liability is not automatic.

1. Determining Liability:
- Liability involves proving negligence. Both the dog’s owner and the facility could be liable, especially if there was a warning about the dog’s aggression.

2. Legal Assistance:
- Navigating a dog bite lawsuit requires legal expertise. An attorney can help determine liability and handle the legal proceedings.

Dog Safety for Kids in Iowa

1. Be Calm Around Dogs:
- Children should approach dogs calmly and use gentle voices, avoiding rough behavior.

2. Leave Sleeping and Eating Dogs Alone:
- Teach children not to interrupt a dog while it is eating or sleeping to prevent aggression.

3. Ask Before Petting:
- Children should always ask the dog’s owner for permission before petting.

4. Pet Nicely:
- Teach children to pet dogs gently on the chest or side of the neck, avoiding actions like hugging or pulling tails.

5. Avoid Eye Contact:
- Direct eye contact can be perceived as a threat by dogs. Children should avoid staring into a dog's eyes.

6. What to Do When Approached by an Unknown Dog:
- Children should stay still if approached by an unknown dog and should not play with dogs unsupervised. Allow dogs to sniff them before petting.

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.