Vinton Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

Dog bite injury attorneys become dependable allies for victims when a dog causes harm. They navigate the intricate legal landscape of animal-related cases, focusing on achieving justice and fair compensation for the injured.

Can a Dog Bite Cause Nerve Damage?

Dog bites can result in severe injuries, including nerve damage, which can lead to long-term complications. Understanding the types of nerve damage, symptoms, and legal implications can help victims seek appropriate medical care and compensation. Here's a comprehensive overview of the impact of dog bites on nerves and the necessary steps for treatment and legal recourse.

Types of Nerve Damage from Dog Bites

A dog's powerful jaws can injure nerves, tendons, muscles, and bones. The extent of nerve damage varies, ranging from mild to severe.

1. Neuropraxia: This is the least serious type of nerve damage, where nerves are stretched but not severed. It can occur from crushing injuries or dislocations caused by a bite. Recovery can take a few hours to several months.
   
2. Axonotmesis: A more severe injury that damages nerves and affects muscle and motor functions. Recovery can take months to years.
   
3. Neurotmesis: The most severe type, where the nerve is severed. If the cut is clean, it may be possible to repair the nerve through procedures aimed at regenerating it. However, recovery is slow and often incomplete, potentially leading to permanent damage and abnormal sensations or movements.

Signs of Nerve Damage

Nerve damage from a dog bite can impact both motor and sensory nerves.

- Motor Nerve Damage: Controls actions and movements by transmitting information from the brain and spinal cord to the muscles.
  - Signs include weakness, paralysis, muscle twitching (fasciculation), and muscle wasting (atrophy).

- Sensory Nerve Damage: Affects sensations such as pain by transmitting information from the muscles and skin to the brain and spinal cord.
  - Signs include burning, numbness, pain, prickling/tingling, and difficulties with positional awareness.

Psychological Impact of Dog Bites

The trauma from a dog bite isn't limited to physical injuries. Victims often experience significant psychological effects, especially if the bite results in permanent scars or disfigurement.

- Psychological Treatment: Victims may require treatment for fear, anxiety, embarrassment, and conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This might involve seeing a psychologist or psychiatrist, and sometimes medication for anxiety or depression is prescribed.
  
- Costs and Compensation: Psychological treatment adds to the overall expenses of recovering from a dog bite. Victims may seek compensation not only for physical and psychological treatment but also for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.

Legal Considerations in Dog Bite Claims

Understanding the legal landscape is crucial for victims seeking compensation for their injuries. In Iowa, dog owners are generally liable for damages caused by their dogs, with exceptions for unlawful acts by the victim (e.g., trespassing).

- Recoverable Damages: Include medical costs, lost earnings, and compensation for pain and suffering. Severe cases might also allow for claims related to permanent scarring and disfigurement.
  
- Challenges with Insurance: It's important to note that insurance adjusters work for the insurance company, not the victim. They may not provide all necessary information or act in the victim's best interest. Therefore, it is often advisable to seek legal representation.

Myths and Misconceptions

There are several common misconceptions about handling dog bite claims:

1. Insurance Adjusters Are Helpful: Adjusters work for the insurance company and aim to minimize payouts. They may frustrate claimants into accepting lower settlements.
   
2. Recorded Statements: Victims are not legally required to give recorded statements to the other party's insurance adjuster, as it can be used against them.
   
3. Choosing an Attorney: Not all personal injury attorneys have experience with dog bite cases. It’s essential to choose a qualified attorney with a proven track record in similar cases.

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.