Bitten by a Dog in Nebraska or Iowa?

Dog bites can lead to serious injuries, permanent scarring, and even long-term psychological trauma. Whether it’s a child attacked by a neighbor’s dog or an adult bitten while walking in a public park, these incidents are more common than many people realize—and they can be legally actionable.

If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in South Sioux City, Sioux City, or anywhere in Nebraska or Iowa, you may be entitled to financial compensation. At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm, we help victims hold negligent dog owners accountable and recover damages for medical expenses, emotional distress, and more.

Nebraska and Iowa Dog Bite Laws: What Makes a Case?

Both Nebraska and Iowa allow victims of dog bites to file injury claims—but the laws differ slightly in how they handle liability.

🟩 Nebraska: Strict Liability

Under Nebraska law, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets—even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. This means:

The dog’s past behavior does not matter

The victim does not need to prove negligence

The owner is responsible, even if the bite happened suddenly

This makes Nebraska one of the more victim-friendly states when it comes to pursuing dog bite claims.

🟨 Iowa: Modified Strict Liability

Iowa law also holds dog owners strictly liable for most bite injuries. However, there are some exceptions:

If the victim was trespassing, committing a crime, or provoking the dog

If the injury was caused by non-aggressive behavior (like a playful jump)

This is why it's essential to document the details of the attack immediately and speak with an experienced attorney who understands how to navigate these state-specific rules.

Common Injuries Caused by Dog Attacks

Dog bites aren’t always minor. They can lead to serious injuries, infections, and long-term physical or emotional damage. At Fitch & Stahle, we’ve represented victims who’ve suffered:

Deep puncture wounds

Facial injuries requiring plastic surgery

Nerve damage

Torn ligaments or tendons

Infections (e.g., rabies, MRSA)

Permanent scarring or disfigurement

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), especially in children

In some tragic cases, especially involving children or elderly victims, dog attacks can even result in fatalities.

What to Do Immediately After a Dog Bite

If you or your child has been bitten, here are the steps to take right away:

Seek Medical Attention
Even if the bite seems minor, see a doctor. Dog bites can cause infections or hidden internal injuries.

Identify the Dog and Owner
Get the dog owner’s name, address, and proof of rabies vaccination. If unknown, animal control should be contacted immediately.

Report the Incident
File a report with local authorities (e.g., animal control or the police department). This creates a legal record of the attack.

Document Your Injuries
Take clear photos of the wounds and any torn clothing or visible trauma. Keep medical bills and records organized.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Before speaking to the dog owner’s insurance company, call an attorney who can protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

If you were bitten by a dog due to the owner's negligence—or strict liability—you may be eligible to recover damages for:

Emergency room and medical bills

Surgery or plastic surgery

Lost wages from missed work

Pain and suffering

Emotional trauma or anxiety

Scarring or disfigurement

Loss of quality of life

At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm, we’ll calculate the full scope of your damages and fight to recover every dollar you’re entitled to.

Dog Bite Injuries in Children

Children are the most common victims of dog attacks—and they often suffer the most severe consequences. Injuries to the face, neck, and arms are common, and the psychological impact can last well into adulthood.

We handle dog bite cases involving minors with special care and sensitivity. Our team will work with pediatric specialists and mental health professionals to ensure your child’s physical and emotional needs are fully accounted for in your claim.

Statute of Limitations: How Long Do You Have to File?

Time is limited to pursue legal action. Some exceptions apply for cases involving minors or certain types of claims, but the bottom line is this: The sooner you act, the stronger your case.

Why Choose Fitch & Stahle Law Firm?

✅ Licensed in Both Nebraska and Iowa
✅ Experienced in handling dog bite and animal attack claims
✅ Aggressive with insurance companies—compassionate with clients
✅ No upfront fees—you only pay if we win
✅ Located in South Sioux City and serving all of Siouxland

Our team understands how traumatic dog attacks can be. We’re here to help you recover physically, emotionally, and financially.

Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation

You don’t have to deal with the aftermath of a dog bite alone. Let Fitch & Stahle Law Firm help you hold negligent pet owners accountable and pursue the justice you deserve.

📞 Call us now at 402-494-3012
🌐 Schedule your free consultation at fitch-stahlelaw.com
📍 Visit our office in South Sioux City, Nebraska

We’re ready to listen, guide you through your options, and fight for the compensation you deserve.