What is the likelihood of getting bitten by a dog?
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), one in five people bitten by dogs requires medical attention. Dog bites are common and can lead to serious injuries, such as lacerations, broken bones, and psychological trauma. If you or someone you love is hurt by a dog bite, it’s important to protect yourself by hiring a personal injury attorney. Here’s a brief guide to help you navigate a dog bite situation.
What Is a Dog Bite Attorney?
Many personal injury attorneys have expertise in seeking compensation for people who have been harmed by dog bites. While the laws vary from state to state, Iowa and Nebraska follow what’s known as a “strict liability” law. This means that a dog’s owner is responsible for damages caused by a dog bite, regardless of whether they knew or had reason to suspect that their dog could potentially inflict harm on someone.
In contrast, states such as Arkansas, Kansas, and Nevada follow the “one bite” rule, which holds dog owners liable only if they were aware or should have been aware that their pet might act in a harmful way.
How Can a Dog Bite Attorney Help?
Despite the fact that Iowa is a strict liability state, it can still be hard to prove negligence for a personal injury claim if you’re hurt by a dog bite. Having an experienced lawyer by your side can make all the difference in ensuring you receive compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages.
For example, Iowa law specifies that a dog owner will not be held responsible if the person was bitten while “doing an unlawful act, directly contributing to the injury.” For this reason, trespassing is often used as a defense against liability in personal injury cases.
In addition, dog bites are often covered under a homeowner’s insurance policy. If this is the case, it’s wise to have an experienced attorney help you deal with the insurance company and maximize the settlement.
If you’ve sustained a dog bite injury, reach out to The Law Offices of Gallner and Pattermann, P.C. Since 1974, the skilled personal injury attorneys at this firm have been helping accident victims throughout the Council Bluffs, IA, and Omaha, NE, areas win the compensation they deserve for injuries, accidents, and illnesses.
Visit their website to learn more about dog bite injury claims or call (712) 323-0999 to schedule a free consultation with an attorney.
