Wellman Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

Victims of dog bites can rely on dog bite injury lawyers for dependable support. These attorneys specialize in the complex legalities of animal incidents, ensuring proper management of liability and compensation to achieve justice.

The 4 Stages of Rabies After a Dog Bite

Rabies is a life-threatening virus that affects hundreds of people annually. If you've contracted rabies due to a dog bite, immediate medical attention is crucial. Additionally, discussing the incident with a dog bite attorney can help determine if you have the right to pursue a claim against the dog's owner.

Rabies is a zoonotic disease, meaning it is transmitted from animals to humans. It attacks the central nervous system and is fatal if left untreated. The progression of rabies occurs in four stages:

1. Attachment: The bullet-shaped virus attaches itself to a nerve cell.
2. Penetration: The virus penetrates the cell.
3. Replication: The rabies virus multiplies rapidly within the cell.
4. Budding: The virus spreads to other neurons and travels throughout the body.

If you or your child is bitten by a dog, immediately clean the area and seek medical attention. Untreated rabies can lead to paralysis, coma, and eventually death. However, with proper treatment, the rabies virus can almost always be eradicated.

Being attacked and bitten by a dog is not only dangerous but also frightening. The added risk of contracting rabies makes it a traumatic event. If you've suffered a dog bite in Iowa, consulting an Iowa dog bite attorney can help you determine if you can file a claim for your injuries, including compensation for psychological trauma and loss of earnings.

Circumstances That May Make a Dog More Likely to Attack or Bite

Aggression is the most common and serious behavior issue in dogs, often leading to bites. Certain circumstances can make a dog more prone to biting or attacking.

When a Dog is Scared

Dogs may display fear aggression when scared. Most animals, including dogs, will try to escape from what frightens them. If escape isn’t possible, they may resort to aggression as a defense mechanism. A fearful dog often attacks from behind, so always face a dog you sense may be scared of you.

When a Dog is Territorial

Territorial aggression is another common reason dogs bite. Dogs may bark, growl, or attack to protect what they perceive as their territory. This can include their home, toys, food, or even their owners. Both male and female dogs can exhibit territorial behavior.

To Protect an Owner

Dogs are naturally protective of their owners. If a dog senses that its owner is in danger, it may react aggressively to protect them. This behavior can extend to protecting puppies or other dogs in the household.

If the Dog is Being Taunted, Teased, or Attacked

Dogs may respond aggressively if they are taunted, teased, attacked, or feel endangered. This defensive aggression highlights the importance of not provoking dogs, as they can be unpredictable and dangerous.

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

Settlements for dog bite cases can cover treatment costs, including plastic surgery. It's crucial to prove that the surgery is necessary to repair damage from the dog bite. Future medical costs should also be considered, ensuring all forms of compensation are addressed in the settlement.

Seeking Dog Bite Treatment Damages for Plastic Surgery

Dog bites can cause significant scarring and disfigurement, often requiring plastic surgery for optimal results. Injuries to visible areas like the neck, face, and scalp may need multiple procedures. Plastic surgery can be complex, especially for severe injuries like reconstructing a nose. Even after surgery, there may be visible scarring, leading to emotional trauma.

Compensation Available in a Dog Bite Settlement

A dog bite claim typically covers all medical costs related to the injury, including emergency treatment, surgery, hospitalization, and medication. Future treatments, such as plastic surgery, should be considered before settling. The time needed to heal can affect the victim's ability to work, so future lost wages should also be included. Compensation for pain and suffering, mental anguish, disfigurement, and disability may be available.

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.