Walcott Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

In cases of dog-related injuries, dog bite attorneys offer reliable advocacy for victims. Specializing in animal law, they navigate the complexities of liability and compensation to achieve justice and support for the injured.

Do I Need Evidence for a Dog Bite Claim? If So, What Kind?

The state of Iowa imposes a strict liability statute regarding dog bites. Strict liability means that the owner of a dog is liable for “all damages caused” by their dog unless the victim is performing an illegal act at the time of the attack. Under statutory law, the dog bite victim does not need to prove negligence. Under case law, however, more evidence will be required. Here’s an overview of the types of evidence you’ll need for a dog bite claim.

Evidence Necessary Under Statutory Law

If you’re pursuing a dog bite claim under statutory law, the type of evidence you’ll need is relatively straightforward. Mostly, you’ll need to prove the following:
- The dog in question was the dog that bit you.
- You suffered injuries as a result of the bite/attack.
- You were not doing anything illegal at the time of the bite/attack.

Other than these three items, there is relatively little else that you’ll need to establish.

Evidence Necessary Under Case Law

To recover damages under the common law, or case law, you’ll need to establish the negligence of the dog owner. If you can prove negligence, you may be able to recover a greater amount of damages, including for pain and suffering.

Courts consider a situation as dog owner negligence when the dog owner knows that the dog is dangerous but fails to restrain it. For example, if the dog had rabies and the owner knew or should have reasonably known about it but failed to control the dog, then the owner acted negligently. Or, if the dog had bitten someone in the past and the owner didn’t restrain the dog properly, then the owner acted negligently.

To recover damages under case law, you’ll need to prove the following:
- The owner knew or should have known of the dog’s dangerous nature.
- The owner failed to take action to prevent the dog bite/attack.
- The dangerous dog bit or attacked you.
- You suffered injuries as a result of the bite/attack.

If you can prove the above, then you’ll be eligible to recover damages for the full extent of injuries suffered.

Dog bite treatment can rack up huge medical costs, something our personal injury law firm in Walcott, Iowa has seen on numerous occasions. It goes without saying that cost is the last thing you want to worry about after a dog attack.

When either you or your child has experienced the trauma of a dog attack, finances won’t be the first thing on your mind. Securing your safety and getting medical attention will be the top priorities. Only after the medical crisis has been stabilized do financial worries start to creep in.

Injuries and Damage After a Dog Bite Attack in Walcott

A dog attack in Walcott can result in:
- Torn clothing
- Bloody clothing
- Scratches
- Bruises
- Deep cuts
- Puncture wounds
- Loss of tissue
- Loss of limbs
- Nerve damage
- Broken bones
- Crushed bones
- Disfigurement

Emotional distress may also play a role in your child's and family's life after a dog bite attack in Walcott. Emotional distress may require medications and psychological therapy to calm your child from his or her persisting fears from a dog bite attack. It could also be disheartening for you and your family to see your child go through these treatments and suffer post effects, which could cause relationship problems and affect the ability to concentrate.

Dealing with Medical Costs After a Dog Bite

When the medical bills start mounting, financial strain and frustration can quickly take root. This may especially be the case when prolonged, lengthy (and expensive) treatments for deep dog bites are required.

What Are the Estimated Dog Bite Treatment Costs?

It varies considerably, but costs could range in the tens of thousands of dollars. In 2011, the average cost of a dog bite claim was more than $64,555. Treatment costs begin escalating as numerous treatments are required, which may include:
- Ambulance and hospital services
- Sutures and staples
- Reconstructive surgeries
- Prescription medications
- Mental health services and counseling
- Follow-up appointments

Your costs will depend on the injury and necessary treatment. You may be able to file a claim for compensation to help cover the heavy costs of your dog bite treatment, as well as for lost wages and emotional damages.

Do Certain Dogs Bite More Often Than Others?

Every year, there are nearly 4.7 million injuries that happen in the United States when dogs bite. According to insurance companies, the five dog breeds most often associated with dog bite injuries are:

1. Presa Canario—This dog is a mix of a mastiff and a pit bull that is often used to herd cattle. These dogs weigh up to 125 pounds and are about 25 inches tall.
2. Doberman Pinscher—Dobermans are bred to guard their owners and respond immediately when they feel threatened. Avoid violent or aggressive play with this breed.
3. Husky—These dogs have very complex personalities and are sometimes dangerous in the hands of inexperienced owners.
4. German Shepherd—These large dogs have a brave and confident nature, which accounts for their use in police work. However, that confident nature can often make this breed aggressive.
5. Rottweiler—Rottweilers often dislike people and animals that they have never met. They have very strong jaws that make them extremely effective at defending their owners.

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.