Oakland 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.

Seeking Compensation for Permanent Disfigurement from a Dog Bite

Understanding the Impact of Dog Bites

Dog bites can cause a range of injuries, from superficial wounds to severe, permanent disfigurement. For individuals in Iowa, pursuing a dog bite claim against a negligent owner may be crucial for recovering damages related to medical expenses and emotional trauma. Consulting an Iowa personal injury attorney can provide insight into your legal options.

Disfiguring Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bites can result in various types of injuries, some of which may lead to significant disfigurement:

- Superficial Wounds: Minor bites may only require cleansing.
- Severe Lacerations: Deep bites can puncture or tear the skin, leading to raised, jagged scars.
- Skin Grafting: In cases where skin damage is extensive, skin grafts may be needed. This involves taking skin from another body part to repair the damaged area.
- Orthopedic Surgery: Sometimes, dog bites result in broken bones requiring orthopedic surgery.
- Reconstructive/Cosmetic Surgery: Severe disfigurement may necessitate multiple surgeries to restore appearance and function.

In addition to the immediate physical damage, infections are a common concern, and preventive treatments or vaccinations may be necessary.

Recovering Damages from Disfiguring Injuries

Victims of disfiguring dog bites may be eligible for both economic and noneconomic damages:

Economic Damages

- Medical Expenses: This includes current and future costs for treatments such as surgeries, skin grafts, and psychological care.
- Lost Income: Compensation for wages lost during recovery and for any future time off needed for additional treatments.

Noneconomic Damages

- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury.
- Emotional Trauma: Severe disfigurement can lead to significant emotional harm, including embarrassment and social difficulties.
- Diminished Quality of Life: Impact on the victim’s ability to engage in normal social and work activities.

Circumstances Leading to Dog Attacks

Understanding what might cause a dog to bite can be essential for both prevention and legal claims. Certain situations can increase the likelihood of a dog attack:

Fear

A scared dog might display fear aggression, attacking if it cannot escape from what it perceives as a threat.

Territoriality

Dogs can be territorial over their property, possessions, or even their owners, leading to aggressive behavior towards perceived intruders.

Protection

Dogs may attack to protect their owners, their puppies, or other animals they see as part of their pack.

Provocation

Dogs might respond aggressively if they feel taunted, teased, or attacked. It’s crucial to avoid behaviors that can provoke a dog.

Legal Rights and Emotional Recovery for Children

Dog attacks can have profound emotional effects, especially on children. Depending on their age, children might exhibit various reactions:

- Under 5 Years Old: Fear, excessive clinging, and regressive behaviors such as bedwetting.
- Ages 6-11: Withdrawal, nightmares, irrational fears, and emotional numbing.
- Ages 12-17: Nightmares, substance abuse, depression, and isolation.

Children may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) if symptoms persist. Signs include re-experiencing the attack, avoiding reminders, and sleep disturbances.

Contacting a Personal Injury Attorney

Given the complexities involved in dog bite claims, especially those involving permanent disfigurement or severe emotional trauma, seeking legal counsel is advisable. An experienced attorney can help:

- Prove Liability: Gather evidence to establish that the dog owner was negligent.
- Maximize Compensation: Ensure all current and future expenses are considered in the claim.
- Handle Insurance: Deal with insurance companies and legal proceedings.

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.