If a dog bites or injures a person, one of the first questions to ask is whether the state in which the attack occurred is a strict liability state. Strict liability generally means that a dog owner is responsible for injuries caused by their dog--regardless of the dog having bitten on an earlier occasion. If the state in which the dog bite occurred does not have strict liability, then the victim must prove that the dog owner knew that the dog was dangerous before the victim can collect damages.

Another important question is whether the dog owner has insurance. Usually homeowner’s insurance or renter’s insurance will provide insurance coverage for the dog owner.

Unfortunately, dog attacks frequently involve children because of a child’s size in relationship to the dog. Because of a child’s size, dog bites are often in highly visible areas such as the hands, arms, and face. I enjoy helping the families of dog bite victims; and, being a father myself, I particularly enjoy helping the families of children.

I have represented many families of dog bite victims in Iowa, Nebraska, and in Minnesota. If you, a friend, or a family member has been injured by a dog, I would be happy to meet with you and discuss your legal rights at a place most convenient for you. “I still make house calls”.