Nevada Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

When a dog inflicts injury, dog bite injury lawyers offer reliable support to the victims. Specializing in the complex legalities of animal incidents, they manage liability and compensation to secure justice and adequate support.

What to Do If You Think a Dog is Going to Attack You

Being confronted by an aggressive dog can be a terrifying experience, potentially leading to severe injuries and lasting trauma. Understanding how to react if you suspect a dog might attack can help mitigate the danger. Here’s what you need to know and do if faced with such a situation.

Preempt the Attack by Giving the Dog Space

Recognizing the signs that a dog is feeling angry, scared, or territorial can help you avoid an attack. Some common warning signs include:
- Tensing its body
- Raising the hair on its neck and back (raising its hackles)
- Opening its eyes wide so that you can see the whites (whale eye)
- Backing away
- Flattening its ears against its head

If you notice these signs, calmly and slowly distance yourself from the dog. Giving it enough space can often prevent an attack.

Remain Motionless

If the dog is close and appears ready to attack, standing still can be your best option. Do not attempt to run away, as dogs are much faster and may chase. Remaining calm and motionless may reduce the threat.

Avoid Eye Contact

Direct eye contact can be interpreted by dogs as a challenge or threat. Instead, turn your head slightly and use your peripheral vision to keep an eye on the dog. This shows submissive behavior and may help de-escalate the situation.

Resist Your Impulses

Your natural reaction might be to scream, run, or fight back. However, these actions can provoke the dog further. Instead, remain quiet and still, and if possible, put something between you and the dog (like a coat or purse). Even if the dog attacks, covering your face and remaining still might prevent further aggression.

Know Your Rights as a Dog Bite Victim

If a dog attacks you in Iowa, you are protected by the state's strict liability dog bite law (Section 351.28 of the Iowa Code). This means the dog’s owner is liable for damages even if they were not negligent, except in cases where the victim provoked the dog or if the dog had rabies.

Recovering Damages and Liability after a Dog Bite in Iowa

Victims of dog bites in Iowa can suffer from severe injuries and emotional trauma. Understanding how to recover damages is crucial for ensuring proper compensation.

Liability of Dog Owners under Iowa Law

Iowa’s strict liability law holds dog owners responsible for injuries their dogs cause, regardless of the owner’s negligence. Exceptions include provocation by the victim or if the dog had rabies.

Types of Dog Bite Compensation

Victims may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:

- Medical Expenses: Covering past and future medical costs.
- Lost Wages: Compensating for income lost due to injury.
- Future Loss of Earnings: Addressing reduced earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensating for physical pain and mental anguish.
- Loss of Full Mind and Body: Reimbursing for loss of bodily or mental functions.
- Disfigurement: Compensating for scarring and associated emotional impact.
- Damage to Relationships: Addressing loss of companionship and support.
- Wrongful Death: Providing for beneficiaries in the event of a fatality.

Effects of Dog Bite Disfigurement

Disfigurement from a dog bite can lead to significant psychological and social challenges, such as negative self-perception and social anxiety. These effects can necessitate long-term psychological treatment.

Treatments for Emotional Injuries

Emotional injuries from disfigurement can require various treatments, including cognitive therapy, psychotherapy, physiotherapy, and medication. Survivors need comprehensive support to rebuild their self-identity and resilience.

Benefits of Hiring a Dog Bite Lawyer

An experienced lawyer will:
- Present your case effectively to the insurance company.
- Ensure all aspects of your claim, including future medical costs and lost earnings, are covered.
- Handle interactions with the dog’s owner diplomatically, especially if a neighbor’s pet attacked you.
- Help you avoid making unnecessary accusations, keeping the process less stressful.

After Your Dog Bite Case Is Settled

Once your claim is resolved, the dog’s owners might understand that your goal was fair compensation, not revenge. Hiring an attorney doesn't necessarily mean litigation; it can often lead to a settlement outside of court.

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.