Columbia Dog Bite Lawyer

From Labradors to French Bulldogs, man’s best friend comes in all shapes and sizes, and many of us love our pets like a member of our family. As a result, you may be caught off guard when you encounter an attacking, aggressive dog.

If you or someone you love are injured from a dog bite and are considering legal action to hold the dog’s owner accountable, you should consult with a Columbia dog bite lawyer. Dog bites can leave traumatic and lifelong injuries that may be both medically expensive and psychologically damaging. Therefore, it may be advisable to seek the counsel of a practiced injury attorney who can pursue a favorable outcome to your situation.

Columbia, Mo. Animal Attack Attorney

Have you or a loved one been a victim of a dog bite? Were you on the property legally? If so, you could be entitled to compensation from the dog owner. As a dog owner, it is their responsibility to control the animal and ensure it is safe for you to be on the owner’s property. You could be compensated for a number of different damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

But what if the dog owner takes responsibility for the incident? You can still give us a call or come down to the office, as your Columbia, Mo. dog bite lawyer will be able to help you receive compensation for your expenses. Don’t go through this alone, getting in touch with an attorney allows you to recover from the event, while you focus on recovery.

Our team of dog-bite attorneys knows how to handle these types of cases, as we’ve assisted many clients in the past get the compensation they deserve. Get in touch with us to begin your case, and see why so many of our clients choose the Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers to handle their case.

Missouri Dog Attack Statistics

According to Dogs Bite, there are some surprising statistics surrounding dog bites throughout the state. In just Kansas City alone, there were 373 total dog bites in just one year. Several breeds are more prone to biting than others, which include pit bulls, rottweilers, and mixes of those two breeds.

Here are some staggering facts about dog bites throughout Missouri and the nation:

• Throughout the United States, there are up to 4.5 million dog bites each year. According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC)
• Someone is bitten by a dog every 75 seconds!
• Many victims are children under 10.
• The average settlement for a dog bite case is between $30,000-$40,000
• Almost 1 in 5 people bitten by dogs require medical attention, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association

These stats are surprising, especially when you consider how often dog bites occur. If you or a loved one have been the victim of a dog bite, get in touch with our Columbia, Mo. dog bite injury attorneys today!

Time Limit to Bring a Claim

In a personal injury lawsuit, the statute of limitations is a law that sets a legal timer that begins to run down from the moment an individual is injured. A plaintiff can bring a lawsuit within that statutory period. If a claim is brought after, the claim would expire and would be dismissed.

Under Miss. Stat. §516.0120, a plaintiff has five years from the day they were bitten by the dog to bring a claim against the owner. While this is a relatively long time, a plaintiff should keep in mind that over time, evidence can disappear, the dog can die, and witnesses’ memories can fade. Therefore, the sooner a Columbia dog bite lawyer can begin interviewing witnesses, taking depositions, and gathering other evidence, the better for the plaintiff’s chances with their case.

What to Do After a Dog Bite in Columbia, Mo.

If you have been bitten by a dog, there are a few important steps to take directly after the event occurs. These include identifying the dog that bit you, seeking immediate medical attention, and receiving treatment according to the plan set forth by the doctor, some additional steps to take include:

• Getting the name and contact information of the animal’s owner
• Take photo and video evidence of the incident
• Keep a record of any medical documents
• See if there were any witnesses, and get their side of the story
• Get in touch with the Mutrux Firm to begin filing suit.

As we’ve mentioned before, according to the statute of limitations in Missouri, you have five years from the date of the incident to file suit. However, it is critical you do not wait, get in touch with your attorney right away. Get in touch with your dog attack attorney in Columbia, Mo., as this will ensure that your case is filed before the statute expires and that there is enough time for your attorney to put together a compelling case, including eyewitness testimony, consulting experts, and other critical evidence.

What Are Some Common Dog Attack Injuries in Columbia, Mo.?

It is an unfortunate fact that many dog bite victims are small children under the age of ten years old. Many dog bite victims experience life-altering injuries and even infections from the dog’s saliva. Some of the most common types of dog bite injuries in Columbia include:

• Broken bones
• Puncture wounds
• Lacerations
• Torn tendons
• Nerve damage
• Emotional trauma

Being a victim of a dog bite in Columbia, Mo. can be a traumatizing experience for everyone involved. Get in touch with a Columbia, Mo. dog bite lawyer immediately so they can begin working on your case, and getting you the justice you deserve.

Who Could Be Held Liable for a Dog Attack?

Under Missouri Revised Statutes §273.036, a dog’s owner is generally liable for the resulting injuries from the bite. Plaintiffs are required to prove that their injuries were caused by an attack, were on public property or lawfully on private property at the time of the bite, and they did not provoke the dog to strike.

What is the Role of Strict Liability in Dog Bite Cases?

The Missouri dog bite statute is a strict liability standard, meaning that even if the dog’s owner is found to have reasonably restrained the animal, they are still responsible for the dog’s bite. If the owner is found to be liable for the attack, they generally must pay the plaintiff $1,000 in addition to any other damages that are proven, such as medical expenses.

Consult with a Columbia Dog Bite Attorney Today

A dog bite can leave significant can cause immediate physical trauma, cause infection, and result in long-term injury. These injuries generally result in substantial financial expenditures for the injured person. A Columbia dog bite lawyer may be able to advocate for your rights if you are injured from such an attack.

Call today to discuss your rights, legal strategies, and whether a favorable outcome to your situation can be pursued.

Columbia Mo. Dog Bite Lawyer FAQ

Do I need a lawyer for a dog bite case in Columbia?

While you’re not legally required to have a lawyer, consulting with one can help you understand your rights and options. An experienced dog bite lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.

What damages can I recover in a dog bite case?

• • Medical expenses, including current and future treatment costs.
  • Lost wages if you had to miss work due to the injury.
  • Pain and suffering.
  • Emotional distress.
  • Property damage (if applicable).

How can I prove the dog owner’s liability?

Evidence such as photos of the injuries, witness statements, and medical records can help establish liability. Proving negligence may involve showing that the owner knew or should have known that the dog had a history of aggression.

How much does it cost to hire a dog-bite lawyer in Columbia?

Many personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you receive compensation. Their fee is typically a percentage of the amount recovered.

What if the dog owner doesn’t have insurance?

Your lawyer may explore other avenues for compensation, such as pursuing the owner’s personal assets.