Iowa has one of the more protective dog-bite laws in the country. When a dog injures someone, the owner is generally strictly liable — meaning a victim usually does not have to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous.
Iowa's Strict-Liability Dog Bite Law
Under Iowa Code § 351.28, a dog owner is liable for damages when their dog attacks or injures a person, with limited exceptions (such as when the injured person was unlawfully doing something to provoke the dog). Unlike some states, Iowa does not give owners a 'one free bite' before liability attaches.
This means victims often have a strong claim, with the owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance frequently providing coverage.
Serious Injuries, Especially to Children
Dog attacks cause puncture wounds, lacerations, infections, nerve damage, scarring and disfigurement, and emotional trauma. Children are especially vulnerable and often suffer facial injuries that require reconstructive surgery and leave lasting scars.
Compensation may include medical care, future surgeries, scarring and disfigurement, lost income, and pain and suffering, including psychological harm.
After a Dog Bite in Iowa
Seek medical care, report the bite to animal control, identify the dog and its owner, and photograph the injuries. Preserve any witness information.
Call 973-566-5599 for a free, confidential review of your Iowa dog bite claim. No fee unless you win.
Injured in Iowa? Get a free, confidential case review today. There's no obligation, and you pay no fee unless you win. Call 973-566-5599.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nothing upfront. The attorneys in our network work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no attorney fee unless they recover compensation for you. Your case review is always free and completely confidential.
No. Iowa applies strict liability under Iowa Code § 351.28, so an owner can be liable for a dog bite even if the dog had never shown aggression before, subject to limited exceptions.
Iowa's statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of injury under Iowa Code § 614.1(2). Claims against a city, county, or the state are governed by separate notice rules and shorter deadlines, so it is important to act quickly before evidence disappears.
Iowa uses a modified comparative fault rule under Iowa Code § 668.3. You can still recover compensation as long as you were not more than 50% at fault, though your award is reduced by your own percentage of fault. Many people who assume they have no case are surprised to learn they can still recover.
This page is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult a licensed Iowa attorney.