Sheldon Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

When a dog inflicts injury, dog bite injury lawyers are dependable advocates for the victims. Their expertise in animal law allows them to manage the complexities of liability and compensation, ensuring justice and proper support.

Can a Dog Bite Cause Nerve Damage?

A dog bite can indeed cause nerve damage. The powerful jaws of a dog can injure not only nerves but also tendons, muscles, and bones. Understanding the extent and types of nerve damage is crucial for assessing the injury and seeking appropriate treatment.

Ways a Dog Bite Can Cause Nerve Damage

Neuropraxia: This is the least serious type of nerve damage, where the nerves are stretched but not severed. It can occur from crushing injuries caused by the bite or when an attack results in a dislocation or fracture. Recovery can take anywhere from a few hours to several months.

Axonotmesis: A more serious injury, axonotmesis damages nerves and affects muscle and motor function. Recovery is much longer, often taking from a few months to years.

Neurotmesis: The most severe type of injury, neurotmesis occurs when the nerve is severed. If it’s a clean cut, sometimes it's possible to repair the nerve through procedures that involve nerve regeneration. Recovery is a slow process, and in many cases, the damage may be irreparable, leading to permanent abnormal sensations or movements.

Signs of Nerve Damage after a Dog Bite

Motor Nerve Damage: Motor nerves control actions and movements by passing information from the spinal cord and brain to the muscles. Signs of motor nerve damage include:
- Weakness
- Paralysis
- Fasciculation (twitching)
- Muscle atrophy (muscle wasting)

Sensory Nerve Damage: Sensory nerves affect sensation and pass information from the muscles and skin to the brain and spinal cord. Signs of sensory nerve damage include:
- Burning
- Numbness
- Pain
- Prickling/tingling
- Difficulties with positional awareness

How Nerve Damage May Impact a Dog Bite Claim

Nerve damage can occur to the face, hands, or other body parts, potentially accompanied by additional injuries such as fractures. Open wounds from a bite are at risk of infection, and bites may cause disfigurement, all of which are crucial considerations when determining the value of a dog bite claim.

Dog owner liability varies by state laws. In Iowa, it's relatively easy to hold an owner liable for damages, with exceptions if the victim acted unlawfully and contributed to the injury. For example, breaking into someone’s home and being attacked by the family's dog would likely not result in owner liability.

Recoverable Damages

Recoverable damages from a dog bite claim include:
- Medical costs to treat the injury, which may include surgery for severe nerve damage or cosmetic surgery to improve appearance.
- Lost earnings, covering missed work while recovering and anticipated earnings if the injury leads to disability.
- Damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, reduced quality of life, and permanent scarring or disfigurement.

For guidance on filing a claim and understanding the types of compensation available, contacting a dog bite attorney is advisable.

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

A settlement for a dog bite can cover treatment costs such as plastic surgery, provided it's proven that the surgery is necessary due to the dog bite injuries.

Seeking Dog Bite Treatment Damages for Plastic Surgery

Dog bites can cause significant scarring and disfigurement, especially on visible areas like the face, neck, and scalp. Plastic surgery, including procedures like skin grafting, may be required to reduce the appearance of these injuries. Multiple procedures may be necessary for optimal results.

Even after plastic surgery, some visible signs of scarring may remain, potentially leading to or worsening emotional trauma. Thus, compensation for the emotional impact of a dog bite, including mental anguish and pain and suffering, may be available.

Compensation Available in a Dog Bite Settlement

All medical costs stemming from the dog bite should be addressed in a claim, including initial treatment, surgery, hospitalization, and medication. Future treatments, such as additional plastic surgeries, must also be considered. Lost wages due to time spent healing and the psychological impact of the injury are also compensable.

Iowa follows strict liability laws, holding owners responsible for dog bite injuries regardless of the dog's previous behavior. However, proving damages and showing the dog was not provoked can be challenging, necessitating legal assistance.

Treatment for Psychological Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bite injuries can cause significant psychological harm, particularly if they result in permanent scars or disfigurement. Victims may suffer from fear, anxiety, and embarrassment, requiring psychological treatment.

Types of Psychological Treatment Prescribed after a Dog Bite

Victims may need to see a psychologist or psychiatrist to cope with the social and emotional implications of their injuries. Treatment can include counseling to address emotional injuries such as post-traumatic stress disorder, and medication for anxiety or depression.

Compensation for Psychological Treatment

Costs for psychological treatment, in addition to physical injury treatment, may be recoverable in a dog bite claim. Compensation can cover expenses related to therapy, medication, and other treatments for emotional distress, pain, and suffering.

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.