Dog Bite Injuries Go Beyond Stitches
Dogs can be wonderful companions and a great source of loyalty and affection. Unfortunately, not all dogs fit this mold. Some dogs, for whatever reason, bite or attack people. Children are often victims of serious dog bites, due to their size and lack of familiarity with animals.
Physical Harm And Psychological Impacts
Sadly, dog bites often leave a victim scarred and disfigured. Painful surgical procedures and cosmetic repairs are not uncommon. In some instances, amputation is necessary.
Psychological trauma, particularly for children, is also common. The insecurities of disfigurement coupled with the post-traumatic stress of the incident and a potential lifelong fear of dogs lead many people to seek counseling or therapy.
A Skilled Advocate On Your Side
If you or your child has been bitten or injured by a dog, it is important that you have an experienced lawyer on your side to make certain that you receive full compensation for your injuries – both physical and emotional.
I am personal injury attorney Michael Culp. Located in Des Moines, at Culp Law Office P.L.C., I help those throughout central Iowa who are injured from dog bites to recover the compensation they deserve.
Do I Have To Sue My Neighbor?
Many dog bite cases involve neighbors. As a result, many people who come to my office after a dog bite are concerned about filing a personal injury claim against their neighbor. I fully understand these concerns.
However, homeowners’ insurance policies cover dog bites. Therefore, in the vast majority of dog bite claims, your neighbor’s homeowners insurance policy will cover your medical expenses, any lost income, and pain and suffering. These claims will not come out of your neighbor’s pocket directly.
Iowa Is A Strict Liability State For Dog Bites. What Does This Mean?
Many of my clients are also concerned about going to trial. Iowa’s laws are actually very favorable for people who have been bitten by dogs. Iowa is a “strict liability” state, which means that the person who has been bitten or otherwise injured by a dog cannot be at fault. As a result, most dog attack claims are simply a matter of proving your damages.
I will fight to recover the compensation you deserve, however, if the insurance carrier is failing to provide the adequate amount of compensation I believe you should recover, then we may need to go to trial to fight for your recovery.
Contact My Office Today To Discuss Your Options
If you or your child was bitten by a dog in Iowa, call to schedule a free consultation to talk about the incident and what you could potentially recover.
Call 515-288-3333 or email my office.
Free consultations. Evening and weekend appointments are available. No fees unless I win.
