Bitten by a Dog in Missouri? Here are Your Legal Rights.
A tragic dog attack in St. Louis recently claimed the life of a woman after three pit bulls entered her fenced backyard and attacked her. Her husband was also injured while trying to save her and was hospitalized. After the attack, the dogs were seized by animal control, and authorities are investigating the case. It’s unclear what legal action the victims’ family may take, but Missouri has strict dog bite laws that hold owners accountable for attacks.
While we hope you and your loved ones never experience an event like this, it’s important to understand your rights in such a situation.
Missouri’s Dog Bite Laws
Missouri has a strict liability dog bite law, meaning a dog owner is automatically responsible if their dog bites someone, regardless of whether the dog has shown aggression before. Unlike states like Illinois that follow the “one-bite rule,” Missouri law does not require a victim to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous.
To hold a dog owner liable, the victim must simply show that:
- The dog bite occurred while they were lawfully on public or private property.
- They did not provoke the dog.
If these conditions are met, the owner is responsible for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. However, if a victim is found partially at fault (for example, by provoking the dog), their compensation may be reduced or entirely negated.
Beyond civil liability, dog owners in Missouri may also face criminal penalties if their negligence leads to severe injury or death. In fatal cases, families may pursue wrongful death claims against the owner.
Determining Fault for Dog Bites
Missouri dog bite laws state that fault typically falls on the dog’s owner due to the state’s strict liability law. If a dog bites someone without provocation, the owner is responsible—whether or not they knew the dog had aggressive tendencies. However, there are some exceptions that can impact liability:
- If the victim was trespassing, committing a crime, or provoking the dog at the time of the attack, the owner may not be fully liable.
- A landlord or property owner knew a dog on their property was dangerous, but failed to act. In that case, the landlord may share fault with the dog owner.
In cases like the recent St. Louis attack, investigators will likely examine whether the owner had taken reasonable steps to contain their dogs. The owner could be held accountable for negligence if the pit bulls escaped from an unsecured yard or a broken fence.
Potential Compensation for Dog Bite Victims in Missouri
Dog bite victims in Missouri may be entitled to compensation for the physical, financial, and emotional toll of an attack. Under the state’s strict liability law, dog owners are responsible for covering the victim’s damages, which can include:
- Medical Expenses – Includes emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and long-term care like physical therapy.
- Lost Wages – If the victim is unable to work due to their injuries, they can recover compensation for lost income and reduced future earning potential.
- Pain and Suffering – Compensation can be awarded for the physical pain and emotional trauma caused by the attack, including anxiety, PTSD, and lasting psychological effects.
- Disfigurement and Disability – Severe bites can cause permanent scarring or impair mobility, which may lead to higher compensation.
In the dog attack where one victim was fatally injured and another was hospitalized, the surviving family may be able to pursue wrongful death damages for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and the financial impact of losing a loved one, as well as compensation for hospital bills and any rehabilitation needed. In the event of a dog bite, victims must act quickly, as Missouri has a five-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, which includes injuries from dog bites.
Steps to Take Following a Dog Bite
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Missouri, taking the right steps immediately after the attack can strengthen your case and help secure compensation.
- Seek Medical Attention – Even minor bites can lead to infections or complications. Immediate medical treatment ensures injuries are properly documented and treated.
- Report the Attack – Contact local animal control or law enforcement to file an official report. This creates a record of the incident, which can be crucial in legal proceedings.
- Gather Evidence – Take photos of the injuries, the location of the attack, and any visible signs of negligence (e.g., a broken fence). If possible, get contact information from witnesses.
- Identify the Dog and Owner – Obtain the dog owner’s name, address, and proof of rabies vaccination. If the owner is unknown, authorities may need to investigate.
- Consult a Dog Bite Attorney – Legal guidance can help ensure you receive full and fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Missouri law protects dog bite victims, but navigating the legal process can be complex. An experienced attorney can help prove liability, negotiate settlements, and take legal action if necessary.
Holding Dog Owners Accountable for Your Injuries
A dog attack can be physically devastating and emotionally traumatic, leaving victims with costly medical bills, lost wages, and long-term pain. Missouri’s strict liability laws ensure that dog owners are held responsible for the harm their pets cause, but navigating the legal process can be challenging—especially while recovering from injuries. Whether you’re facing mounting hospital bills, permanent scarring, or emotional distress, you have the right to seek compensation.No amount of money can undo the trauma, but holding negligent owners accountable can provide justice and financial relief. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Missouri, don’t wait to take legal action to secure the best possible dog bite settlement. Our experienced dog bite attorneys have helped others fight for the compensation they deserve and can help you move forward with confidence.
Holding Dog Owners Accountable for Your Injuries
A dog attack can be physically devastating and emotionally traumatic, leaving victims with costly medical bills, lost wages, and long-term pain. Missouri’s strict liability laws ensure that dog owners are held responsible for the harm their pets cause, but navigating the legal process can be challenging—especially while recovering from injuries. Whether you’re facing mounting hospital bills, permanent scarring, or emotional distress, you have the right to seek compensation.No amount of money can undo the trauma, but holding negligent owners accountable can provide justice and financial relief. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Missouri, don’t wait to take legal action to secure the best possible dog bite settlement. Our experienced dog bite attorneys have helped others fight for the compensation they deserve and can help you move forward with confidence.
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