In Need of a Dog Bite Injury Lawyer?
At Wallentine Injury Law, LLC, our skilled Kansas City personal injury lawyers and support staff know dog bites can create much confusion about liability. Many victims may not fully understand Missouri’s strict liability laws and how they apply to their cases.
In some situations, victims might believe that the owner is only responsible if the dog has shown prior signs of aggression, which is not true. Additionally, victims may feel uncertain about pursuing a claim if the owner is a friend, family member, or neighbor.
These misconceptions, combined with the immediate physical and emotional trauma of the attack, can make it challenging to know how to proceed.
You need an injury lawyer who has handled numerous dangerous dog case. You need Jerry.
Our Jackson County dog bite injury law firm helps Missouri residents separate fact from fiction, providing clear guidance through each step of the personal injury process. We thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the attack, gather evidence to support your claim, and navigate insurance policies to maximize your compensation.
Whether your injuries are severe or catastrophic, we focus on achieving the best possible results—covering medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any necessary psychological support. With decades of combined experience and over 1,000 clients represented in jury trials, bench trials, motion hearings, mediations, and settlements, our commitment is to provide clarity, compassion, and aggressive representation, helping you secure the justice you deserve.
Contact us today to tell your story during a free consultation.
Who is Liable for Dog Bite Injuries in Missouri?
In Missouri, the dog’s owner is generally liable for injuries resulting from a dog bite. Missouri follows a strict liability rule, meaning that the owner can be held responsible for injuries caused by their dog, regardless of whether the dog had a history of aggression or whether the owner knew the dog was likely to bite.
Here’s how liability works and the common injuries that victims can suffer from dog attacks:
- Strict Liability in Missouri
Under Missouri law (RSMo § 273.036), the owner of a dog is liable if their dog bites someone who is lawfully on private property or in a public space. This means that even if the dog never showed signs of aggression, the owner can still be held responsible for any injuries caused.
- Homeowners’ or Renters’ Insurance
In many cases, the dog owner’s homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policy will cover the damages from a dog bite, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Victims can often recover compensation without directly pursuing the dog owner’s assets.
Our team at Wallentine Injury Law can help you navigate the insurance claims process to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Dog attacks can result in many injuries, many of which can be severe and have long-term consequences. Some of the most common injuries from dog bites include:
- Lacerations and Puncture Wounds: Dog bites often cause deep puncture wounds and lacerations, leading to significant blood loss, scarring, and nerve damage. These injuries may require stitches, wound care, or even surgical intervention.
- Infections: Dog bites can lead to infections like cellulitis, MRSA, or even rabies, especially if the wound is not treated immediately. Infections can complicate the healing process and may require extended medical treatment.
- Nerve Damage: Severe bites can cause nerve damage, potentially leading to loss of sensation or function in the affected area. This is particularly common when the bite involves the hands, arms, or legs.
- Facial Injuries: Dog attacks often result in facial injuries, which can include severe lacerations, broken bones, or disfigurement. Facial injuries are prevalent in children who may be at the dog’s height level.
- Fractures and Crush Injuries: Larger dogs can exert significant force when they bite, leading to fractures or crush injuries, particularly in the hands, wrists, or arms, as victims try to defend themselves.
- Psychological Trauma: Dog attacks often leave victims with lasting psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or a fear of dogs. Emotional distress is a compensable injury, and we take it seriously in pursuing your claim.
- Scarring and Disfigurement: Bites that result in scarring or permanent disfigurement can have lasting physical and emotional effects. Victims may need plastic surgery or other medical treatments to minimize scarring.
At Wallentine Injury Law, we have extensive experience handling dog bite cases in Missouri. We’ll conduct a thorough investigation, gather evidence like medical records, witness statements, and photos of the injuries, and work to prove the dog owner’s liability.
We also handle communication with insurance companies and pursue fair compensation for all your damages, including medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and any necessary reconstructive surgery or psychological counseling.
Missouri’s strict liability law clarifies that dog owners are responsible for controlling their pets and preventing harm. If you’ve been injured in a dog attack, we are here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact our Kansas City dog bite attorneys today to learn more.
What If the Dog’s Owner is a Friend or Family Member?
It’s understandable to feel conflicted if the dog owner is someone you know. However, most dog bite claims are covered by homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policies, meaning the claim is generally against the insurance company, not the individual. We can handle your case with discretion and professionalism to help maintain personal relationships while pursuing the compensation you deserve.
Do I Need Medical Evidence to Prove My Dog Bite Claim?
Medical records are critical in proving your Missouri dog bite claim, as they document the extent of your injuries, treatments, and recovery process. We can help you gather and organize this evidence to build a strong case reflecting the attack’s impact on your life.
Can I File a Claim If My Child Was Bitten by a Dog in Missouri?
Yes, you can file a claim on behalf of your child if they were injured in a dog attack. Children are especially vulnerable to dog bites, and their injuries may require specialized medical care. We will work to protect your child’s rights and pursue compensation for medical expenses, trauma, and any long-term impacts.
How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in Missouri?
In Missouri, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including dog bites, is generally five years from the date of the injury. However, acting as soon as possible is best, as evidence and witness recollections can fade. We can ensure that your claim is filed promptly and accurately.
We Also Focus on the Following Areas:
- Car Accident
- DUI Accident
- Bicycle Accident
- Motorcycle Accident
- Truck Accident
- Neck and Spinal Cord Injury
- Gun Injury
- Uber, Lyft, and Rideshare Accident
- Wrongful Death
Contact Our Trusted Dog Bite Attorneys in Kansas City, Missouri
Don’t wait to take action if you or a loved one has suffered from a dog bite. Contact our trusted dog bite attorneys in Kansas City today for a free, no-obligation consultation by calling (816)-934-6333 or online. We’re here to listen, answer your questions, and provide the dedicated representation you need to pursue maximum compensation. Let us fight for your recovery and hold negligent dog owners accountable—contact us now to get started.
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