Saylorville Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

When a dog bite results in injury, dog bite attorneys offer invaluable assistance. They navigate the intricate legal landscape of animal attacks, expertly managing liability and compensation to ensure justice and support for victims.

Will My Settlement Cover Dog Bite Treatment Costs for Plastic Surgery to Repair Damage?

A settlement for a dog bite injury may cover treatment costs, including plastic surgery, if it can be proven that the surgery is necessary to repair damage caused by the bite. Future medical costs should also be considered in addition to those already incurred. Seeking legal counsel is crucial to ensure all forms of compensation available in a claim are addressed in the dog bite settlement.

Seeking Dog Bite Treatment Damages for Plastic Surgery

Puncture wounds, lacerations, and tears from a dog bite can cause significant scarring and disfigurement. Plastic surgery is often required, especially for injuries to highly visible areas such as the neck, face, and scalp. While stitches may suffice for some wounds, severe injuries might necessitate reconstructive surgery, such as skin grafting.

Plastic surgery can be particularly complex when dealing with significant damage, such as reconstructing a nose. In any event, damages in a dog bite settlement may cover the costs of plastic surgery. The emotional impact of serious dog bite injuries, resulting in disfigurement, can also be considered for compensation.

Even after plastic surgery, there may still be visible signs of scarring. Additional surgeries can sometimes help, but there are many circumstances in which no further aesthetic improvement can be achieved. This type of permanent disfigurement can exacerbate emotional trauma.

Compensation Available in a Dog Bite Settlement

Typically, all medical costs stemming from a dog bite are addressed in a claim. This may include initial treatment, such as emergency room visits, surgery, hospitalization, and medication. If the victim requires additional treatment later on, such as plastic surgery, it is important to consider these future costs before settling the claim.

The recovery period from plastic surgery or the initial dog bite could impact the injured person’s ability to work, so it is important to consider future lost wages. Due to the psychological impact, there may also be damages available for pain and suffering, mental anguish, disfigurement, disability, and more.

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

Yes, you should generally report a dog attack, especially if it results in serious injury, the dog is not contained, or the animal appears sick and poses a continued danger. Victims can also consult an Iowa personal injury attorney for help collecting evidence and presenting a claim for damages against the dog’s owner.

What to Do in the Case of a Dog Bite Injury

After a dog bite or attack, first secure your safety and that of others. Separate yourself from the animal and move to a safe place if necessary.

Steps to take after a dog bite or attack include:

- Washing the area thoroughly with soap and water if available
- Seeking medical attention from a doctor or emergency room if needed
- Calling animal control or the local police department to report the dog attack

Additionally, collect information about the dog, its owner, the accident, and any eyewitnesses to the attack. This information can be crucial if you decide to pursue a dog bite injury claim in Iowa. Under Iowa Code 351.28, the dog’s owner is liable for damages done by the dog.

Treatment for Deep Dog Bites: Stitches and Staples After a Dog Attack Injury

Treatment for deep dog bites may involve stitches or staples to close the wounds. If you or your child sustained a dog attack injury, consult a personal injury law firm in Iowa to discuss your legal options and protect your rights.

Types of Dog Bite Injuries

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 4.5 million Americans are bitten by dogs each year, and one in every five bites results in injuries that require medical attention. The CDC also reports that more than 30,000 people underwent reconstructive surgery after a dog attack in 2006.

Dog attack injuries can be severe, leading to health complications, disfigurement, and even death. Injuries may include tissue tears, deep lacerations, fractures, crushing injuries, and puncture wounds. Staples and sutures are commonly used for large wounds, but treatment varies based on the wound location and risk of infection.

Complications of Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bite wounds carry the risk of complications such as infection, scarring, disfigurement, and damage to structures like muscles or tendons. Emotional injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), can also result from a dog attack. Iowa dog bite victims may find Iowa Health a good starting point for locating suitable mental health providers.

Caring for Deep Dog Bite Wounds

Following aftercare instructions is crucial to prevent complications after receiving treatment for a deep dog bite. Your doctor will provide guidelines on keeping the wound clean, bandaging, icing, and elevating the injury. Treatment may include prescribed medications like antibiotics and pain medication, and some may need a tetanus shot.

Steps to Take After the Attack

After seeking medical attention, the next steps include:

- Contacting local authorities if the dog is loose or a danger to others
- Collecting information from the dog owner about rabies vaccinations
- Consulting a personal injury law firm that handles dog attack injuries

An attorney can advise on applicable dog bite laws and help plan to seek compensation for injuries and treatment costs.

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.