In Need of a Dog Bite Injury Lawyer?
At Wallentine Injury Law, LLC, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, results-driven legal representation for victims of dog bites and other personal injuries throughout Missouri. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a dog bite injury can cause, and our goal is to ensure that every client feels supported and empowered throughout the legal process. By focusing on clear communication and aggressive advocacy, we work tirelessly to help our clients recover the maximum compensation they deserve.
Missouri law holds dog owners accountable for the harm their pets cause. Under Missouri’s strict liability statute, dog owners are legally responsible for injuries caused by their dog, regardless of the animal’s prior behavior or history of aggression. This means that even if the dog has never bitten anyone, the owner can still be held liable if their pet attacks someone lawfully present on public or private property. Liability is based on the negligence in the specific situation.
Many dog bite claims are resolved through the dog owner’s homeowners’ or renters’ insurance, which can cover damages such as medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. However, navigating the insurance claims process can be challenging without experienced legal guidance. Unfortunately, under Missouri statute and case precedence, the homeowner (landlord) renting out to a renter (tenant) has protection from liability. Potentially, they could be included in a lawsuit, but Missouri law makes it harder to receive a money or judgement from the landlord and instead places the liability primarily with the tenant, and actual dog owners.
At Wallentine Injury Law, our skilled attorneys have handled numerous dog bite cases in Missouri. We are here to handle the complexities of your case, ensuring that you receive the fair compensation you are entitled to without unnecessary stress or delays. You Need Jerry. Our Missouri dog bite lawyers have the experience to get you the money you need.
We work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we recover compensation on your behalf. Your path to justice begins with a single call—contact our skilled Missouri bicycle accident and injury attorneys and let us help you take the next steps.
With decades of experience and a proven track record of success, our legal team is prepared to stand by your side every step of the way. Whether your case involves a settlement negotiation or courtroom litigation, we are committed to pursuing justice with integrity and tenacity.
What If the Missouri Dog Owner Denies Their Dog Bit Me?
If the Missouri dog owner denies that their dog bit you, it can complicate your case, but it does not prevent you from pursuing compensation. Proving the attack and holding the dog owner accountable requires collecting strong evidence and building a compelling case.
Here’s what you can do if the dog owner denies their dog bit you:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Medical records are crucial evidence in dog bite cases. A doctor’s documentation of your injuries will establish that the injuries are consistent with a dog bite, which can help counter the dog owner’s denial.
- Gather Evidence at the Scene
If possible, collect as much evidence as you can at the time of the incident.
This includes:
- Photos or videos of your injuries, the dog, and the location of the attack.
- Witness statements from anyone who saw the attack occur or can confirm the dog’s involvement.
- Police or animal control reports documenting the incident and any prior complaints about the dog.
If the owner denies responsibility or claims the attack didn’t happen, verifying that the dog belongs to them is essential. Neighbors or other witnesses may be able to confirm the dog’s ownership. Records such as veterinary documents or city licensing may also establish ownership.
- Consult an Experienced Attorney
The dog owner’s homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policy will cover the claim in many dog bite cases. The insurance company has a process for verifying the facts of the case, which can include contacting witnesses, reviewing evidence, and interviewing the dog owner.
Our skilled Missouri dog bite attorneys can help gather evidence, conduct investigations, and subpoena records to prove the dog owner’s liability. We can also handle communication with the dog owner or their insurance company to ensure your claim is taken seriously, starting with a free consultation.
Why Acting Quickly Is Crucial After a Dog Bite Occurs in Missouri
The longer you wait to pursue your case, the harder it becomes to collect evidence and verify details. Witness memories may fade, and physical evidence may no longer be available. Contacting an attorney promptly ensures that your case is built on solid evidence, even if the dog owner denies responsibility.
At Wallentine Injury Law, LLC, our Missouri dog bite attorneys are experienced in overcoming disputes and building strong cases for our clients. If you’re facing a denial from the dog owner, we can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Are There Special Legal Considerations for Dog Bites Involving Children in Missouri?
Dog bites involving children in Missouri often come with special legal considerations due to the unique vulnerabilities of children and the potential for severe physical and emotional injuries.
Here are the key aspects to keep in mind when handling a dog bite case involving a child:
- Increased Severity of Injuries
Children, especially younger ones, are more likely to suffer severe injuries in dog attacks due to their smaller size and inability to defend themselves effectively.
Common injuries include:
- Deep lacerations and puncture wounds.
- Facial injuries, which may require reconstructive surgery.
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement.
- Emotional trauma, such as a lasting fear of dogs or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
These factors often result in higher medical costs and a greater need for long-term care.
Dog owners may claim that the child provoked the dog to avoid liability. However, Missouri courts often recognize that children, especially very young ones, may not fully understand the consequences of their actions. This makes it harder for a dog owner to use a provocation defense against a child victim successfully.
- Legal Guardians and Filing the Claim
Since minors cannot file lawsuits independently, a parent or legal guardian must file the claim on the child’s behalf.
This includes pursuing compensation for:
- Medical expenses (current and future).
- Pain and suffering.
- Counseling or therapy costs.
- Lost earning capacity if the injuries result in long-term disabilities.
Any compensation awarded will typically be held in a trust or a court-supervised account until the child reaches adulthood.
- Statute of Limitations for Minors
Missouri’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally five years. However, the clock doesn’t start running for minors until their 18th birthday. This provides additional time to file a claim, but waiting too long can make it harder to gather evidence and build a strong case.
Why You Need an Experienced Missouri Dog Bite Attorney
Dog bite cases involving children require special care to account for the injury’s immediate and long-term impacts.
Our experienced Missouri dog bite attorneys will:
- Investigate the incident thoroughly.
- Collect evidence to counter claims of provocation or shared liability.
- Work with medical and psychological experts to assess long-term damages.
- Negotiate with insurance companies or litigate in court to ensure full compensation.
At Wallentine Injury Law, LLC, we understand the unique challenges families face when a child is injured in a dog attack. Our compassionate team is here to guide you through the legal process and fight for the justice your child deserves.
We Also Focus on the Following Areas in Missouri:
Contact Our Dedicated Dog Bite Injury Attorneys in Missouri
Missouri residents deserve personal injury attorneys who treat every case with care and respect. We provide compassionate, experienced representation tailored to your needs at Wallentine Injury Law. During your free consultation, we’ll evaluate your case, offer honest advice, and explain your options. You won’t pay anything upfront—our contingency model means you only pay if we win compensation for you.
Don’t navigate this difficult time alone. Contact our skilled Missouri personal injury lawyers today for a free consultation. Call us at (816)-934-6333 or reach out online—your path to recovery starts now.
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