Dog Bite Laws

While dogs can be “man’s best friend” & are one of the most common types of household pets, they can pose a risk. Injuries from dog bites are common in Missouri and thousands of cases are reported each year. These incidents can permanently impact the health & well-being of those involved. Missouri holds liable all dog owners, those in control of a dog, (like a dogwalker or pet sitter) & a landlord or property owner that knew their tenant’s dog was dangerous if the dog bites someone. There is no “one bite rule” in Missouri – even if it’s the first time a dog has bitten someone, liability is clear.

Injuries from dog bites can be small- like minor cuts or scrapes- or they can be severe, requiring surgery. It is common for victims of dog bites to also suffer from infections, nerve damage, scarring, etc. Dog bites can require extensive medical treatment, which can result in large medical bills, lost wages, & other financial hardships. The trauma caused by the event can also cause emotional distress can impact the victim for years to come. All these damages are potentially recoverable in a lawsuit against the dog owner.

Physical injuries from a dog bite could include puncture wounds, cuts, scrapes, infections, broken bones and/or nerve damage. Unfortunately, almost 20% of dog bite victims end up with an infection from the wound, which can create major complications in their recovery. Emotional trauma from a dog bite may express in fear, anxiety and even PTSD for the victim. They often develop a fear of all dogs, which can create struggles in their daily lives.

Seeking immediate medical attention is paramount if you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite. Even injuries that appear small could become major problems if they are not properly treated and disinfected. You should also report the bite to your local animal control agency. They may be able to determine if the dog is up-to-date on its vaccinations or if the dog has a history of biting. Document the attack by taking photos of injuries, the location of the bite & the dog if possible. If you are able, get the contact information of the dog owner & any witnesses to the dog bite. Finally, you will need to keep track of your medical treatments and expenses as well to prove your damages.

Unfortunately, two of the most common places dog bites happen are at parks and in neighborhoods. Many people do not properly train their dogs, so when they are in close proximity to people, they can feel threatened or territorial. In other instances, the dog owner may neglect their dog or train them to be aggressive. You should always be on guard & aware of your surroundings when walking in a park or neighborhood. Never approach dogs that are unknown to you- especially if they appear scared or aggressive. The most common dog breeds involved in dog bite cases are Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, & Rottweilers.

If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Missouri, you must act quickly to protect your potential claim. Missouri has strict laws that hold dog owners liable for injuries caused by their pets. Through the legal process, you may be able to collect compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain & suffering, & other damages.

Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC is an experienced litigator that has represented numerous dog bite victims. He understands the challenges they often face and knows how to navigate the legal system to get his clients justice and fair compensation. He is understanding of the emotional distress involved and will compassionately walk you through the process. His aggressive representation will help you get the best possible outcome.

Call us today to schedule a consultation.