Sioux Center Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

In cases of dog-inflicted injuries, dog bite injury lawyers serve as crucial advocates for the victims. With expertise in animal law, they manage liability and compensation complexities to ensure justice and proper support.

When You Need a Dog Bite Lawyer in Iowa

After a serious dog attack, you may face hospitalization, surgery, and extensive time off from work. While you focus on recovering, a dog bite lawyer in Iowa can fight for your rights. A knowledgeable lawyer should understand Iowa dog bite laws and explain your legal options clearly.

Attempting to handle a dog attack case on your own can lead to resentment and missteps, as you may not know the necessary legal language for a fair settlement. Victims often make unnecessary accusations, which a seasoned lawyer can avoid. Your lawyer can manage accusations and negotiations, making the process less stressful for you.

A skilled attorney won’t confront the dog’s owners or make them feel guilty unless absolutely necessary and with your consent. If you prefer a gentle approach, especially if the dog belongs to a neighbor, your lawyer will respect that. Maintaining relationships while seeking justice is possible with the right legal representation.

Benefits of Hiring an Iowa Dog Bite Attorney

An Iowa dog bite attorney can ensure all your medical needs are addressed, including future care for scarring or disfigurement. Severe injuries may require multiple surgeries and long-term therapy. A lawyer will account for these potential expenses and ensure they are included in your claim.

Missed work due to injuries can also be compensated. An attorney will help calculate these financial losses under Iowa dog bite law. Emotional trauma from visible scarring can be devastating, and compensation for this should be part of your claim. A good attorney will ensure your case's full value is addressed.

Choose a lawyer with experience in dog bite claims and a good understanding of Iowa dog bite law. References can help you find the right fit for your case.

After Your Dog Bite Case Has Been Settled

Once your claim is paid, the dog's owners may be relieved that their insurance company handled everything, and any initial anger may dissipate. They may understand that hiring an attorney was about getting a fair settlement, not hurting anyone.

Hiring a dog bite lawyer in Iowa doesn’t mean you are filing a lawsuit. Often, an attorney can resolve your case with the insurance company outside of court. With a lawyer, you have a better chance of obtaining a fair and full settlement.

Will the Dog Be Put Down if I File a Dog Bite Claim?

A dog bite claim, either with an insurance company (homeowner’s insurance) or in a civil case for damages, does not automatically result in an order for the dog to be euthanized. Iowa is a strict liability dog bite state, meaning the dog’s owner is almost always held liable for the bite under Iowa Code Section 351.28.

A dog bite claim is not meant to penalize the dog or the owner but to ensure that the owner pays for the victim's damages, including medical expenses and noneconomic costs like pain and suffering.

Laws Surrounding Euthanizing Animals in Iowa

Animal control officers can seize a dog considered vicious under Section 18.59 of the city ordinances. The chief humane officer can act on a complaint by notifying the owner, who then has three business days to contest the claim. If not disputed, the dog can be seized and impounded for seven days. If the owner takes no action, the dog may be euthanized.

Should I File a Claim for Damages if a Dog Has Bitten Me?

If you suffered injuries from a dog bite, filing a claim is in your best interest to recover the necessary financial damages for treatment. If you have questions about filing a claim or how it affects the dog or its owner, talk to an attorney.

Dog Safety for Kids in Iowa

Teaching dog safety to children is essential to prevent injuries. Parents should educate their children on how to behave around dogs:

- Be Calm Around Dogs: Stressful environments can provoke dogs. Encourage children to use an inside voice and be gentle.
- Leave Sleeping and Eating Dogs Alone: Disturbing a dog while eating or sleeping can trigger aggression.
- Ask the Owner Before Petting: Children should always ask a dog's owner for permission before approaching or petting the dog.
- How to Pet Nicely: Teach children to pet dogs gently, avoiding the top of the head for unfamiliar dogs.
- Avoid Eye Contact: Direct eye contact can be seen as a threat by dogs.
- What to Do When Approached by an Unknown Dog: Children should remain still if approached by a strange dog and avoid playing with dogs without adult supervision. If knocked down, they should roll into a ball and stay still.

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.