Bitten by a Dog in Kansas City? A Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help You Sue for Damages
Dog bites hurt more than your skin. They leave scars, fear, and bills behind. If a dog bit you in Kansas City, you can take legal action. You don’t have to handle this alone. An experienced personal injury lawyer in Kansas City can help you get paid for your pain, costs, and stress.
Dog Bite Laws in Kansas City
Missouri has a strict law for dog bites. The law says a dog owner is responsible if their dog bites someone. You don’t have to prove the dog bit someone before. You only need to show:
- You were on public property or had a right to be on private land.
- You did not tease, harm, or scare the dog.
- The dog bit you.
If these things are true, you may sue. And you may get money for medical care, lost pay, or pain.
Common Injuries from Dog Bites
Dog bites don’t just cause cuts. They can cause serious harm:
- Deep wounds
- Torn skin
- Infections
- Broken bones
- Nerve damage
- Scars
In some cases, you may need surgery. You might need shots, stitches, or therapy. Some people even face trauma or fear after a bite. You should not carry these costs alone.
What To Do After a Dog Bite
Act fast after a dog bite. What you do next can affect your case. Follow these steps:
- Get medical help. Clean the bite. Go to a doctor right away. Save your records.
- Report the bite. Call Kansas City Animal Control. Make an official report.
- Take photos. Snap pictures of your wound, the scene, and the dog (if possible).
- Get contact info. If others saw it, get their names and numbers.
- Avoid speaking to the dog owner’s insurance. They may try to pay you less.
- Call a personal injury lawyer. They will guide you and protect your rights.
Why You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer
A lawyer knows the law and how to use it for you. They can:
- Collect proof
- Talk to witnesses
- Deal with the insurance company
- File your lawsuit
- Fight for the most money you can get
Many lawyers take dog bite cases for free unless you win. That means no upfront cost.
How Much Can You Sue For?
Every case is different. Your payout depends on many things:
- Medical bills
- Time missed from work
- Pain and stress
- Scars or disfigurement
- Ongoing treatment
Some cases end in a few thousand dollars. Others go into six figures. A good lawyer can give you an idea after reviewing your case.
Who Can Be Held Responsible?
The dog owner is often the first person to blame. But others might share fault:
- A landlord who knew the dog was dangerous
- A dog sitter or walker
- A business where the bite took place
A lawyer can look at all sides and find every person who should pay.
Time Limit to Sue in Missouri
Missouri gives you five years from the date of the bite to sue. Don’t wait. Witnesses forget. Proof fades. Waiting could cost you your case.
What If the Dog Belonged to a Friend or Family Member?
Many people worry about suing someone they know. But most dog bite payouts come from home insurance. You won’t be taking money from their pocket. You’ll be filing a claim with their insurance. This helps with the legal process to cover your costs without ruining your relationship.
Children and Dog Bites
Kids get bitten more often than adults. They’re smaller and can’t protect themselves. Injuries may be worse. If your child was hurt by a dog, you can sue on their behalf. Money can cover treatment now and later.
Will You Have to Go to Court?
Most dog bite cases settle out of court. That means your lawyer and the other side agree on a payment. You get paid, and there’s no trial. But if the other side won’t be fair, your lawyer may take the case to court. That’s rare, but it’s your right.
How Long Does It Take to Settle?
It could take weeks or months. Some take longer if the case is complex. Your lawyer will try to settle fast but won’t rush you into a bad deal. They want what’s best for you.
Choosing the Right Lawyer in Kansas City
Pick a lawyer who:
- Has experience with dog bite cases
- Knows Missouri law
- Will meet you and hear your story
- Has a track record of winning fair payouts
- Works on a no-win, no-pay basis
Read reviews. Ask questions. Trust your gut.
Call a Kansas City Dog Bite Lawyer Today
Don’t let fear or guilt stop you. If a dog bit you in Kansas City, you may be owed money. A Kansas City Dog Bite Lawyer can handle the stress so you can heal. You don’t pay unless you win.
Common Questions
- Can I bring a lawsuit if the dog has never bitten anyone?
Yes. Missouri law does not consider the dog’s prior history. If you are bitten and not at fault, you can sue the dog owner.
- What happens if I was bitten in a park or on the street?
You can sue. If you are in a public place or entitled to be where you are, you have a case.
- What happens if the dog owner does not have insurance?
You can still sue. An attorney may find other collectible assets (personal bank account, umbrella policies) available to you.
- How much will I have to pay for a lawyer?
Most personal injury attorneys are on a contingency basis. Basically, you don’t pay anything until they recover for you.
- What evidence do I need to prevail?
Med. records, photos, ocular witness information, and the dog owner’s identity. An attorney may help get those records.
Endnote
If you have been bitten by a dog don’t wait. Kansas City injury attorneys want to help you piece your life back together. You did not intend on being injured. Let the profession help you get your life back to where it was, physically, emotionally, and financially.
