Dog Bite & Attack Lawyers in St. Louis

Who Can Be Held Liable? 

Though liability in a dog bite case is typically straightforward, certain circumstances (were you bitten on rented property?) could complicate matters. Additionally, the dog owner themself might not be the person who pays your final settlement. We can help you understand the context of your claim and use all possible means to pursue the compensation you deserve.

Liability in a dog bite case is usually straightforward, but some cases—such as those involving rented property—require more complex analysis. The dog owner may not be the party who ultimately pays your settlement. We can explain the nuances of your claim and pursue every available path for compensation.

Our St. Louis dog bite attorneys can help you understand what types of damages may be recoverable and guide you based on your unique situation. For example, if you were bitten in an apartment complex, liability might be shared or shift between a landlord, a property management company, and the dog owner. We review lease documents, local ordinances, and incident reports to determine if anyone else could be responsible beyond the immediate dog owner. These complex cases require a team that understands how Missouri and St. Louis city laws interact, and our familiarity with local statutes is invaluable.

Common Injuries in a Dog Bite Accident

• Puncture Wounds: Puncture wounds are one of the most common injuries in dog bite cases. These deep, narrow wounds may not bleed much but can introduce bacteria into the body, creating a high risk of infection.
• Lacerations: A dog’s teeth can tear through the skin, creating jagged cuts that often require stitches. Severe lacerations may lead to scarring and may require surgical repair.
• Infection: Dog bites frequently lead to infections due to bacteria in the animal’s mouth. Infections can develop quickly and may cause redness, swelling, fever, and spreading inflammation.
• Nerve Damage: If a bite is deep enough, it can damage nerves, resulting in numbness, tingling, or loss of movement in the affected area. Some nerve injuries may require surgical intervention.
• Broken Bones: Larger or powerful dogs can cause fractures during an attack, especially in the hands, arms, legs, or face.
• Soft Tissue Damage: Muscles, tendons, and ligaments can be torn or damaged during a bite or attack. Recovery from soft tissue injuries could take weeks or months and may involve physical therapy.
• Facial Injuries: Children are especially at risk of facial injuries because of their height relative to a dog’s mouth. Facial wounds can result in significant scarring and may require reconstructive or cosmetic surgery.
• Psychological Trauma: Dog bite victims may experience anxiety, fear of animals, nightmares, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Blood Loss: Severe bites can damage blood vessels, leading to significant bleeding. Immediate medical care is often necessary to control blood loss and prevent complications.
• Scarring and Disfigurement: Even after wounds heal, many victims are left with noticeable scars. In serious cases, long-term scar management or additional surgery may be required.

What Damages Can I Recover?

After a dog bite, you can seek compensation for all medical bills related to the attack. Depending on the severity, you might need several doctor visits to fully address your injuries. Some victims also experience post-traumatic stress, and counseling fees may be covered if you need psychological support to recover.

Depending on the location and seriousness of the bite, you may also be able to recover non-economic damages. Dog attacks can leave serious scars, sometimes on highly visible areas like the hands, arms, or face. If this has happened to you, you may qualify for damages for pain, suffering, and permanent disfigurement. Our team can evaluate your case and determine the appropriate damages to request.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do Immediately After a Dog Bite?

After a dog bite, focus on your safety and move to a safe place. Clean the wound thoroughly and get medical care if needed. Collect contact details for the dog’s owner and any witnesses, and report the incident to St. Louis Animal Control. Take photos of your injuries and speak with a doctor about possible treatments and rabies prevention.

How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in Missouri?

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including dog bites, in Missouri is generally five years from the date of the incident. However, details may vary based on individual circumstances. Consulting a dog bite attorney in St. Louis promptly helps ensure you do not miss important deadlines and allows you to better preserve evidence for your claim.

Can a Landlord Be Held Responsible for a Tenant’s Dog Bite?

In some situations, a landlord may be liable if they knew the dog was dangerous or allowed a dog in violation of local ordinances or lease rules. Every case depends on its details. Reviewing lease agreements, incident reports, and prior complaints is key to determining possible liability under Missouri law.

Are Dog Bites Covered by Homeowner’s or Renter’s Insurance?

Before deciding not to pursue compensation from a dog owner, know that their insurance may pay your claim in full. Personal injury claims against individuals do not always result in the recovery victims hope for. However, if the responsible party is properly insured, you have a stronger chance of obtaining the full amount you request.

Contact Our St. Louis Dog Bite Attorney Today

When arguing a dog bite case in court, you’ll need a strong representative on your side. Especially in situations where jurors may be tempted to empathize with the other party, the story you present must be complete and compelling to counteract any inclinations to downplay your struggles. With over 30+ Years of experience, our team can present a strong narrative that illustrates why you deserve full compensation after a dog bite.

We will put in the work ahead of time so we’re prepared for any challenges the other side might bring. Reach out to our firm today for a free consultation to learn about your legal options if you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog.

We’re available 24/7 at (314) 500-6000. Work with our experienced St. Louis dog bite lawyers today.