In the United States, 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year, and 20% of these people subsequently require medical attention. 27,000 of these people must undergo reconstructive surgery, and in 2013 alone, thirty-one Americans died of a dog bite-related incident.
Dog Bite Liability in Iowa
In the state of Iowa, there are strict liability laws that require a dog owner to provide some form of compensation if their dog ever bites someone. In order to receive compensation from someone, first, the victim must prove that the person they are pursuing is in fact the owner of the dog that bit them. Next, they have to provide sufficient evidence that the dog caused the injury. Then, the injured party must not have been acting unlawfully at the time of the attack. For example, if the victim was trespassing on the dog owner’s property at the time they were bitten, they are not eligible to receive compensation. Finally, they must present their injuries as evidence. The amount and kind of compensation received depends on the type and severity of the injury.
Sometimes, dog owners can pay for a victim’s injuries through their car insurance. This option is not uncommon. In 2010, insurance companies paid a total of $413 million in dog bite claims. A lawyer can take a look at an insurance policy and easily determine whether or not a dog owner is eligible for this option.
Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer in Des Moines to Learn More
Sadly, dog bites and similar injuries happen far too regularly, with a disproportionate number of injury victims being young children. Dog bite injuries can result in devastating scarring, significant pain, and emotional trauma. If you or someone you love was bitten by a dog, the Des Moines dog bite lawyers at the LaMarca Law Group, P.C. believe that you should not be the one to pay for the resulting costs of this injury. Find out what we may be able to do to help you in this difficult time by calling us today at (515) 705-0233.