Dog Bite Victim in Missouri? Know Your Rights With a Lawyer
A dog attack can leave you scared, hurt, and unsure of what to do next. In Missouri, the law protects dog bite victims. You have the right to seek money for your injuries and losses. A skilled dog bite lawyer in Kansas City can guide you through each step. This page will help you learn your rights, what steps to take, and how a lawyer can fight for you.
Missouri utilizes a rule of strict liability concerning dog bites stating that the dog owner shall be liable to anyone bitten by their dog when that dog has been nonaggressive prior to the bite. The law (Missouri Revised Statutes Section 273.036) states that the victim does not have to prove the dog was dangerous, you only have to prove:
The bite happened without you provoking the dog.
You were in a place you could legally be.
The dog’s owner may try to blame you, but the law is clear. You can still get help for your injuries.
Common Injuries From Dog Bites
Dog bites can cause serious harm. Some wounds heal fast. Others lead to lifelong damage. Here are common injuries victims suffer:
Deep cuts or puncture wounds
Nerve damage
Torn muscles or tendons
Broken bones
Scars or disfigurement
Infections
Emotional trauma, such as anxiety or fear
These wounds typically require medical attention, surgery, or therapy, and that can add up very quickly.
What To Do Following A Dog Bit
If you get bitten, try to remain calm and follow these steps as soon as possible:
Get Medical Care Even if the wound looks small, see a doctor. Dog bites can lead to infection.
Report the Bite Tell your local animal control or police. They will create a report you can use later.
Gather Evidence Take photos of the wound, the dog, and the area where it happened.
Collect Information Get the dog owner’s name and contact details. Also gather witness names if you can.
Avoid Speaking to Insurance Do not give a recorded statement to the dog owner’s insurance before talking to a lawyer.
How a Dog Bite Lawyer Helps You
Many people try to handle dog bite claims alone. They soon find the process confusing and stressful. A lawyer helps by:
Investigating your case and gathering evidence
Dealing with the insurance company
Proving the dog owner is liable
Calculating the full cost of your losses
Filing a lawsuit if needed
With a lawyer, you do not have to face the legal system alone.
What Compensation Can You Get?
A dog bite claim can cover many losses. You may get money for:
Medical bills
Lost income if you miss work
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Plastic surgery for scars
Other out-of-pocket costs
Every case is unique. Your lawyer will review the details to fight for fair payment.
Time Limits to File a Claim
Missouri law gives you five years to file a dog bite lawsuit. The time starts on the date of the bite. Waiting too long can cost you the right to recover any money. That is why you should speak to a lawyer soon after the attack.
How Insurance Works in Dog Bite Cases
Many dog bite claims are paid through the dog owner’s homeowners insurance. But insurance companies may try to:
Blame you for provoking the dog
Downplay your injuries
Offer a low settlement
A lawyer knows these tactics and how to fight back.
Why Victims Delay Getting Help
People often wait to call a lawyer because they:
Feel embarrassed about suing someone they know
Think they can’t afford a lawyer
Believe their injuries are not serious
Hope the insurance company will be fair
These delays may undermine your claim. Don’t forget most dog bite lawyers take on contingency fees, meaning that you do not pay anything up front, and the lawyer only gets paid if you win money.
When a dog owner claims that you provoked the bite
One common defense in dog bite cases is the argument that you provoked or injured the dog and then the dog bit you. If proven this defense may reduce or void your entitlement to compensation. Your lawyer will use evidence, witness statements, and expert opinions to fight these claims.
Emotional Impact of Dog Bites
Dog bites do more than break the skin. Many victims struggle with fear of dogs, nightmares, or anxiety in public. You deserve help for these emotional wounds too. A claim can include therapy costs and payment for your suffering.
What If the Dog Has No History of Aggression?
Under Missouri’s strict liability law, it does not matter if the dog never bit before. The owner is still responsible. Even if the dog seemed friendly in the past, you can file a claim.
The owner may still be liable even though leashed. No requirement exists under Missouri state law meaning, for you to pursue a claim, that the dog was running loose.
Q2: Can I sue if the dog that bit me is my child?
Yes. The parent or guardian can pursue a claim on behalf of the minor child. Children often accept settlement amounts that are higher than the average settlement because dog bites potentially leave marks/scars and trauma lasting a lifetime.
Q3: What if I was bit while on someone else’s property?
Again, if you were there legally, you can still pursue a claim. If you had an invitation or were allowed to be on the property, then you are legally there.
Q4: Do I have to have a police report to pursue a claim?
A police report, or animal control report, is nice to have to establish your case but not required. If deemed necessary, your attorney can obtain additional evidence.
Q5: How long does it take on average to settle a dog bite case?
There is no average answer to this question. Some claims settle a couple of months after being filed; some claims take a year or longer, especially if the insurance company is contesting the claim. Once a lawyer see’s your claim, they may have a better idea of how long it may take.
