Dog bites can result in serious physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in St. Louis, Missouri, it’s essential to understand your legal rights and options for seeking compensation. This article provides an overview of Missouri’s dog bite laws, the steps to take after a dog bite, and how to find a qualified dog bite lawyer in St. Louis.
Understanding Missouri’s Dog Bite Laws
Missouri operates under a strict liability statute concerning dog bites. According to Missouri Revised Statutes Section 273.036, a dog owner is liable for injuries caused by their dog if the bite occurs while the victim is lawfully on public or private property, regardless of the dog’s prior behavior or the owner’s knowledge of the dog’s viciousness. This means that even if the dog has never shown aggressive behavior before, the owner can still be held responsible for any injuries the dog causes.
However, there are exceptions to this rule. If the victim was trespassing on the property or provoking the dog at the time of the attack, the owner’s liability may be reduced or eliminated. Additionally, Missouri follows a comparative negligence standard, meaning that if the victim is partially at fault for the incident, their compensation may be reduced proportionally.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in St. Louis
If you or someone you know is bitten by a dog in St. Louis, it’s essential to take immediate action to protect your health and legal rights:
Seek Medical Attention: Even if the bite seems minor, it’s important to get medical care promptly. Dog bites can lead to infections and other complications.
Report the Incident: Notify local animal control or law enforcement about the bite. This helps ensure the dog is properly quarantined and its vaccination status is verified.
Gather Information: Obtain the dog’s owner’s contact details, vaccination records, and any witness information. This information will be vital for your case.
Document Injuries: Take photographs of your injuries and keep records of all medical treatments and expenses related to the bite.
Consult a Dog Bite Lawyer: Contact an experienced dog bite attorney to discuss your case and understand your legal options.
Compensation Available for Dog Bite Victims
Victims of dog bites in St. Louis may be entitled to various forms of compensation, depending on the severity of their injuries and the circumstances of the attack:
Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation costs.
Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to the injury.
Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the attack.
Disfigurement: Compensation for permanent scarring or loss of bodily function.
Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence, additional damages may be awarded to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct.
Finding a Qualified Dog Bite Lawyer in St. Louis
When seeking legal representation for a dog bite case, it’s important to choose a lawyer with experience in handling such claims. Here are a few reputable law firms in St. Louis specializing in dog bite cases:
Brown & Brown Law Firm: Offers free consultations and has a track record of successful outcomes in dog bite cases across Missouri. They operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless they win your case.
Brown & Crouppen Law Firm: Known for their aggressive representation and commitment to client satisfaction, Brown & Crouppen offers free consultations and operates on a no-win, no-fee basis.
The Bruning Law Firm: Provides free consultations and has extensive experience in personal injury cases, including dog bites. They offer personalized attention and work diligently to achieve favorable outcomes for their clients.
Mandel & Mandel, LLP: Specializing in dog bite cases, Mandel & Mandel offers free consultations and has a team experienced in handling such claims. They focus on maximizing compensation for their clients.
Miller & Hine Law: Offers free consultations and has a team experienced in handling dog bite claims. They focus on maximizing compensation for their clients.
Conclusion
Suffering a dog bite can be a traumatic experience, but Missouri law provides avenues for victims to seek justice and compensation. By understanding your legal rights, taking immediate action after an incident, and consulting with a qualified dog bite lawyer, you can navigate the legal process and work towards obtaining the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in St. Louis, consider reaching out to one of the reputable law firms mentioned above to discuss your case.