Best Dog Bite Attorneys in Des Moines

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Des Moines, Iowa?

  The Non-Emergency Communication Center in Des Moines is reached at (515)-283-4811.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Des Moines, Iowa?

  The Records Section of the police in Des Moines is at 25 East 1st Street, Des Moines, IA 50309. The phone number is (515)-283-4896.

• Does a dog bite victim in Des Moines have to present evidence of negligence when suing the animal's owner?

  No, a dog bite victim in Des Moines does not have to present evidence of negligence when suing the animal's owner. The state is a strict liability jurisdiction, and any person who has a right to be in a specific location can demand damages from dog owners whose dogs attack. The existence of the bite itself sufficiently proves that the canine's master was careless.

• Does the strict liability rule in Des Moines apply when rabies is involved?

  No, the strict liability rule in Des Moines does not apply when rabies is involved. If a dog turns out to be rabid, the dog bite victim has to show proof that the owner was negligent. The claimant has to show that the master knew or should have known that the canine was rabid yet did nothing about the issue.

• May nonprofit shelters in Des Moines use the charitable immunity rule in Iowa to defend against dog bite suits?

  No, nonprofit shelters in Des Moines may not use the charitable immunity rule in Iowa to defend against dog bite suits. They are just as liable as regular individuals and entities. This is because a 1967 case, Sullivan v. First Presbyterian Church, expressly excluded nonprofit corporations and groups from immunity.

• What steps should a dog bite victim in Des Moines take after being bitten?

  A dog bite victim in Des Moines who has been attacked should stay away from the attacker and call a first responder once in a safe location. The animal's owner should be located and the personal information gathered. Animal control must be called, and if there are eyewitnesses, testimonies should be recorded for evidentiary purposes.

• May a chihuahua owner in Des Moines use the defense that the dog bite victim was attacked because the latter loudly clanged pots and pans in front of the animal?

  Yes, a chihuahua owner in Des Moines may use the defense that the dog bite victim was attacked because the latter loudly clanged kitchenware in front of the animal. A pet owner is not liable for animal attacks if there was provocation or trespassing involved. While there is no evidence of trespassing, there is an apparent provocation in the form of noisemaking.