LAW

Introducing Dog Bite Personal Injury Cases in Iowa

Published

12 months ago

August 13, 2024

When we think of Iowa personal injury cases, we tend to think of the many road accidents and workplace incidents across the state. Too many people are involved in collisions, slip-and-fall accidents, and other accidents at the hands of other parties. Residents may not realize that personal injury lawyers also work on cases regarding animal bites. These are primarily dog bites that place the blame on negligent owners of out-of-control and aggressive pets. Here’s an overview of these cases and how personal injury lawyers can help – just in case you find yourself dealing with this situation.

Dog Bite and Personal Injury Cases

Recent statistics show there are 4.5 million dog bites each year in America. A lot of these are going to be small nips and relatively inconsequential. Dogs in training and dogs startled by strangers may know no better way of expressing themselves when stressed out. Only 20% of reported cases led to the need for medical care. Skin punctures can require stitches and wound care in case of any bacterial infections. It’s also crucial that anyone bitten by a rabid dog gets immediate medical care. 568 Americans have died from dog attacks between 2005 and 2020. 67% of those deaths came from pitbull breeds and 10% from rottweilers. So, dog bite cases can be serious and can result in the need for legal representation. Dog bite victims deserve the chance to get compensation where it’s due. Dog owners may face criminal charges because of their negligence and will also need a defense if the victim sues.

What Are Iowa’s Dog Bite Laws?

Section 351.28 of the Iowa Code states that owners can face penalties if their dog “bites, attacks, worries, maims, or kills someone”. This could be the result of an animal getting out of a property or attacking a stranger at their home. There are also cases of neighbor dogs attacking residents in the community, including small children. Typically, these dogs are untrained or aggressive due to their upbringing. The high proportion of cases involving pitbull breeds has led to additional laws in some areas. 40 counties in Iowa and more than 1,000 cities have brought in breed-specific ordinances, and 97% of them ban pit bulls. Critics will argue that any dog bite and aggressive dog is down to the negligence of the owner, not the breed of the dog. However, the weight of pitbulls and related breeds, along with the powerful bite, can lead to some serious injuries and fatalities.

There are some exceptions to these Iowa dog bite laws that must be taken into account. The first is if the dog was rabid. Rabid dogs are highly dangerous and need to be controlled at all times, ideally under quarantine. However, accidents can happen, and if the animal was handled under control at the time, such as during transfer between facilities, the handler and owner aren’t liable. The other exemption relates to the dog bite victim. Anyone bitten by a dog because of their own unlawful actions has no case. For example, you could have the case of a family dog protecting its people from an intruder in the home. Or, a bite may have been retaliation after physical aggression.

Making A Personal Injury Dog Bite Claim

If you ever find yourself on the receiving end of a dog bite and wish to claim compensation for your injuries, you can call on a Des Moines personal injury lawyer to help you with your case. They will be able to help you compile evidence and bring a satisfactory case to court, providing the incident is within the Iowa statute of limitations. You may have assumed that there wasn’t much to gain from suing owners when dog bites are misdemeanor crimes. However, it’s still a legitimate personal injury inflicted due to the potential negligence of someone else. Therefore, it’s worth making a claim.

Personal injury compensation claims focus on monetary values in two distinct areas. The first is the chance for economic damages. These are the direct financial losses that come as a result of the dog bite. Typically, these relate to medical expenses as there won’t be much in the way of damaged property to claim for. The extent of this depends on the severity of the injury. Did it require time in the hospital, stitches, follow-up care, or anything else paid for out of pocket? Was the injury so severe that it caused you to lose time at work?

The other factor is non-economic damages. This is what lawyers refer to as pain and suffering and refers to the physical and mental toll the injury had. For example, the bite may not be physically severe, but maybe it left you with a phobia of dogs, and you struggle to be around them. Maybe the family experienced the stress of dealing with the potential of rabies.

Defending A Personal Injury Dog Bite Case

Of course, you can also call on the best dog bite personal injury lawyers to defend yourself as a dog owner. You may not have had much to deal with as far as criminal charges go because your dog didn’t cause much harm and there were other circumstances at play. Yet, the supposed victim may feel justice wasn’t served and decide to go for unjust compensation. A good lawyer will create a compelling case that dives deep into the situation and what really happened between the dog and the victim. If they can prove the victim provoked the dog or meant you physical harm, they have no case. They can use witness testimony and character statements as defense and clear you and your dog at the same time.

Iowa Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help

The important thing to takeaway here is that not only are dog bite cases part of the personal injury service list, but you can also get skilled lawyers who specialize in these cases. Whether you’re a dog owner defending yourself from a lawsuit or a victim struggling after a dog bite, help is available.

LAW

Child Custody Challenges: Understanding Your Rights and Options

Published

1 week ago

July 17, 2025

Sting Fellows

Navigating child custody can feel overwhelming, especially during an emotional time. Understanding your rights and options is the first step to making confident, informed decisions.

Whether facing a divorce, separation, or a change in family circumstances, knowing what to expect helps reduce stress and protect your child’s best interests. Custody challenges vary, but you don’t have to face them alone.

With the right knowledge and support, you can work toward a solution that ensures stability and care for your child. Let’s break down the key points so you can move forward with clarity.

The Impact of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence can have a serious effect on child custody decisions. Courts always prioritize the child’s safety and well-being, so any history of abuse is taken very seriously.

A parent accused of violence may face limited or supervised visitation, or in some cases, lose custody altogether. Even if the child wasn’t directly harmed, witnessing violence can impact their emotional health.

That’s why it’s important to bring all facts forward. If you or your child is in danger, seeking legal and protective help right away is key to keeping everyone safe and ensuring a fair custody arrangement.

Geographic Relocation and Custody Changes

If one parent wants to relocate, they often need permission from the other parent or the court. The court will consider how the move affects the child’s schooling, family relationships, and overall stability.

Even if the move is for a job or a better life, it must still support the child’s best interests. If parents can’t agree, a judge will decide based on the facts.

Planning and communicating openly can help avoid unnecessary conflict and stress for everyone involved.

Substance Abuse Issues

Courts are careful to protect children from unsafe or unstable environments. If there’s evidence of drug or alcohol misuse, the court may limit custody or require supervised visits.

But it’s not always permanent. A parent who seeks help and shows improvement may regain custody rights over time. The focus is always on what’s best for the child.

Support from counselors, treatment programs, and legal professionals can make a big difference in moving forward in a healthy, safe direction.

The Role of Mediation in Custody Disputes

Mediation offers a peaceful way to handle custody disagreements without going to court. A trained mediator helps parents talk through their concerns and find workable solutions together.

This process is often quicker, less expensive, and less stressful than a court battle. Mediation focuses on cooperation and puts the child’s needs first.

With guidance from trusted professionals like this Springdale car accident lawyer, parents can find fair agreements that work for both sides.

Choosing mediation can help families move forward with less conflict and more understanding, which is important when children are involved.

Protecting Your Child’s Best Interests

Protecting your child’s best interests is the heart of every custody decision. By staying informed and seeking the right support, you can make choices that lead to a brighter, more stable future.

Don’t face custody challenges alone. Reach out to trusted legal professionals who can guide you every step of the way. Your child deserves security, care, and a plan that puts them first.

Did you find this article helpful? Check out the rest of our blog now!

LAW

Legal Representation for Auto and Personal Injury Accidents

Published

2 weeks ago

July 11, 2025

Sting Fellows

Accidents can happen at any time. Whether it’s a car crash or a slip and fall, injuries from these events can turn your life upside down. When you’re hurt due to someone else’s mistake, getting legal help is important.

A lawyer can guide you through the process, help you understand your rights, and make sure you get the compensation you deserve.

This article explains why legal representation matters and how it can help you after an auto or personal injury accident.

Why Legal Help Is Important After an Accident

After an accident, many people feel confused or overwhelmed. Medical bills may pile up, and you might not be able to work. Insurance companies might call you quickly, offering a settlement. But their offer may not cover all your losses.

Having a lawyer on your side protects your interests. A lawyer understands the laws and how insurance companies operate. They know how to deal with adjusters and can stop you from accepting an unfair offer. With legal help, you’re more likely to get full compensation for your injuries, lost income, and pain.

What a Personal Injury Lawyer Does

A personal injury lawyer handles all the legal steps so you can focus on recovery. First, they will gather facts and evidence. This includes medical records, police reports, witness statements, and photos from the accident.

Next, the lawyer builds a strong case. They may speak with medical experts to understand the full impact of your injuries. They also calculate how much money you should receive. This can include current medical costs, future treatment, missed wages, and even emotional stress.

How Auto Accident Claims Are Handled

Auto accident cases often involve dealing with several parties: the other driver, their insurance company, your insurance company, and sometimes the police. It can get complicated fast.

Your lawyer will talk with all parties on your behalf. They’ll also file any necessary paperwork and make sure you meet all deadlines. If the other driver was clearly at fault, your lawyer will collect proof to show that. If the fault is unclear, they will work to protect your side of the story.

Staten Island accident lawyers often deal with serious car accident cases and understand the unique laws in New York. They can help you deal with no-fault insurance rules and ensure you get the coverage you’re owed.

Choosing the Right Lawyer for Your Case

Not all lawyers are the same. Look for someone who has experience with injury and accident cases. They should be able to explain things in a simple way and make you feel comfortable.

Check reviews and ask about past results. A good lawyer will not promise a certain outcome, but they will fight hard for your rights. Most personal injury lawyers work on a “no win, no fee” basis, which means you pay nothing unless they win your case.

All About Auto and Personal Injury Accidents

Getting legal help after an auto or personal injury accident can make a big difference. It takes the pressure off you and helps ensure you’re treated fairly. If you’ve been hurt in an accident, don’t face the process alone.

A skilled lawyer can guide you every step of the way and help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.

Looking for more tips and ideas? We’ve got you covered. Check out some of our other posts now.

LAW

Steps to Take After an Accident: Legal and Practical Advice

Published

3 weeks ago

July 4, 2025

Sting Fellows

Were you just in an accident and unsure of what to do next? It’s easy to feel scared or confused in that moment. Taking the right steps right away can protect your health and your rights.

Simple actions like calling for help, gathering info, and talking to a lawyer can make a big difference. You don’t have to face it all alone. Knowing what to do can save time, money, and stress.

Want to stay safe and protect yourself legally? Keep reading for clear steps to follow after an accident.

Ensure Safety

The first thing to do after an accident is to stay calm. Check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call emergency services right away. Move to a safe area if the location is dangerous.

Turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers. Do not stand in traffic or near moving vehicles. If your car can be moved, pull it to the side of the road. Stay inside the car if it’s safer than being outside. Keeping yourself and others safe should be your top priority.

Call for Help

Right after an accident, call 911 as soon as you can. Even if the crash seems minor, it’s better to be safe. Emergency services can check for injuries and control the scene. The police will create an official report, which will help later. Stay calm and give clear details about the location.

Let them know if anyone is hurt or trapped. Do not leave the scene before help arrives. Follow any instructions given by the dispatcher. Getting help quickly can protect both your health and your legal rights.

Document the Scene

Take clear photos of the vehicles from different angles. Include any damage, license plates, and road conditions. Snap pictures of skid marks, debris, or traffic signs nearby. Write down the time and location of the accident. Get the names and contact info of any witnesses.

Ask for the other driver’s name, license number, and insurance details. Avoid arguments or admitting fault while gathering info. Note any weather or lighting conditions at the scene. The more details you collect, the stronger your case will be later.

Contact Insurance

After an accident, call your insurance company as soon as possible. Share basic details about what happened. Give them the date, time, and location of the crash. Tell them if there were any injuries or damage. Be honest, but avoid guessing or blaming anyone.

Send them photos and any documents you have. Ask what steps you need to follow next. Keep a record of who you speak with and what they say. Reporting the accident quickly helps protect your claim and speeds up the process.

Get Legal Advice

Talking to a lawyer after an accident can protect your rights. They can explain what to do and what to avoid. You might be owed money for injuries or damage. A lawyer can help you deal with insurance companies. They know how to handle tough questions and paperwork.

Look for trusted personal injury attorneys with good reviews. Many offer free consultations, so you can ask questions first. Don’t wait too long, as there are deadlines for filing claims. Getting legal help early can make the process less stressful.