Mount Vernon Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

Dog bite injury lawyers serve as trusted partners for victims when a dog causes harm. They specialize in the complex legal landscape of animal attacks, expertly managing issues of liability and compensation to ensure justice and proper support.

Long-term Dog Attack Effects

Dog attacks can have severe and long-lasting effects on victims, both physically and mentally. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2012, more than 27,000 people required reconstructive surgery due to dog attacks. Additionally, one in five people bitten by a dog, or approximately 885,000 individuals annually, need medical attention. Understanding the potential long-term consequences of dog attacks is crucial for victims seeking to recover damages.

Physical Disfigurement

Not all dog bites result in permanent injury, but severe attacks can lead to lasting physical disfigurement. Common injuries include:
- Permanent scars
- Paralysis or partial paralysis
- Mobility problems
- Amputation

In some cases, plastic or reconstructive surgery can alleviate disfigurement. However, certain types of physical injuries, such as paralysis, cannot always be corrected, leaving victims to cope with lifelong disabilities.

Mental and Emotional Trauma

The mental and emotional effects of dog attacks can be equally devastating. Victims, especially children, may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). According to the VA National Center for PTSD, trauma in children and adolescents can manifest as:
- Acting out the incident during play
- Fear, worry, stress, and anger
- Feelings of loneliness
- Aggression
- Inappropriate or unusual sexual behavior
- Self-harm
- Substance abuse
- Impulsive behavior

Children attacked by dogs may also develop attachment disorders, displaying extreme withdrawal or disruptive behavior, nightmares, flashbacks, and depression. Adults can experience similar symptoms following a dog attack.

Infections and Disease

Though rare, dog attacks can lead to dangerous or deadly infections. Some dogs carry diseases like rabies, which can be fatal if untreated. Additionally, untreated wound infections can spread, causing severe health issues such as:
- Disfigurement
- Sepsis
- Amputation
- Loss of function
- Death

Should I Call the Police and/or Animal Control to Report a Dog Attack?

Yes, you should report a dog attack, particularly if it results in serious injury, the dog is not contained, or the animal appears sick and poses a continued danger. Reporting the incident can help in collecting evidence and presenting a claim for damages against the dog’s owner.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite or Attack

1. Ensure Safety: Separate yourself from the animal and move to a safe place.
2. Clean the Wound: Wash the area thoroughly with soap and water.
3. Seek Medical Attention: Visit a doctor or emergency room if necessary.
4. Report the Attack: Call animal control or the local police department.
5. Collect Information: Gather details about the dog, its owner, the accident, and any eyewitnesses.

Consulting a personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal options and collect the necessary evidence to support your claim. Under Iowa Code 351.28, the dog owner is liable for damages caused by the dog.

Trespassing and Dog Owner Liability

In Iowa, dog owners are typically liable for bites unless the victim was engaged in unlawful conduct, such as trespassing. Iowa law states: "The owner of a dog shall be liable to an injured party for all damages done by the dog, when…the dog is attacking or attempting to bite a person, except when the party damaged is doing an unlawful act, directly contributing to the injury" (Iowa Code Sec. 351.28).

Understanding Trespassing

Trespassing involves entering a property without justification or after being notified not to enter. There are gray areas, such as implied invitations to enter for common errands or retrieving personal property. For example, a child retrieving a stray ball has the legal right to enter someone’s yard briefly.

Liability Exceptions

Dog owners may not be liable if the bite victim was trespassing or engaged in unlawful behavior, such as assaulting the owner. Each case is unique, and consulting an attorney can help clarify the specifics of your situation.

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.