Dog bites frequently happen when owners fail to restrain or supervise their pets. However, some bites happen even when owners do everything right and least expect their dog to attack. Dogs are unpredictable, and Missouri law provides bite victims with legal relief, even if owners are not negligent.
The dog owner or their insurance company may be liable if you recently suffered injuries in a dog attack. The experienced Kansas City dog bite attorneys at Bruning Law Firm can swiftly evaluate your claim, determine your legal options, and pursue the compensation you need.
For a free case evaluation with our skilled Kansas City dog bite lawyers, please call (816) 370-5384 or contact us online. Time is short, and we are ready to help.
Table of Contents
- Why Choose Us for Your Kansas City Dog Bite Legal Needs?
- How Much Is My Kansas City Dog Bite Case Worth?
- Where Do Dog Bites Frequently Happen in Kansas City?
- What Are the Applicable Dog Bite Laws in Kansas City, Missouri?
- Common Kansas City Dog Bite Injuries
- Fighting the Insurance Company after a Kansas City Dog Bite
- Important Steps to Take after a Dog Bite Incident in Kansas City
- Discuss Your Case With Our Knowledgeable Kansas City Dog Bite Lawyers Today
Why Choose Us for Your Kansas City Dog Bite Legal Needs?
If you sustained injuries from a recent dog bite, you want a skilled legal team in your corner fighting for your rights and interests.
At Bruning Law Firm, we have over 35 years of experience favorably settling and litigating personal injury cases on behalf of injured victims. You can view some of our most recent case results by clicking here.
Our Kansas City office is conveniently located at 4420 Madison Avenue, Suite 104, Kansas City, MO 64105. Let us begin seeking the compensation you need for your dog bite injuries right away.
How Much Is My Kansas City Dog Bite Case Worth?
The value of your dog bite case in Kansas City depends on several factors. Generally, the compensation you may receive can cover various damages related to your injuries.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Medical Expenses – First, you can recover the costs of medical treatments related to the dog bite. This includes emergency medical care, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and follow-up visits. If you need ongoing treatment or therapy, those costs are also considered.
- Lost Income – If your dog bite injuries caused you to miss work, you can claim compensation for lost income. This includes any time you were out of work – and possibly future earnings if your ability to work is affected long-term.
- Pain and Suffering – This type of damage compensates for the physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the dog bite. It can be challenging to quantify, but it reflects the effects of the injury on your quality of life.
- Permanent Disfigurement or Disability – If the bite left you with permanent scars or a disability, you may receive additional compensation for these long-term effects.
- Property Damage – If any personal property, like clothing, was damaged during the incident, you may be compensated for those losses as well.
Factors like the severity of your injuries, the overall effects on your life, and the dog owner’s insurance coverage will be important considerations when determining how much your case is worth.
At Bruning Law Firm, we can get a clear estimate and ensure that you receive fair compensation for all of your damages.
Where Do Dog Bites Frequently Happen in Kansas City?
In Kansas City, Missouri, dog bites can happen in various locations, but some places are more common than others.
Some of the most common locations for these incidents include:
- Residential Areas – Many dog bites occur in residential neighborhoods. This often happens when dogs are roaming freely or when visiting friends or neighbors. The bite may occur during a casual interaction, such as when the dog feels threatened in its own home.
- Dog Parks and Recreational Areas – Parks – especially those where dogs are allowed to run off-leash – are common sites for dog bites. Dogs interacting with each other or playing can sometimes lead to aggressive behavior or accidents.
- Dog Parks – Dedicated dog parks are designed for dogs to socialize and play. However, the high number of dogs and the potential for rough play can sometimes lead to bite incidents.
- Public Spaces – Areas such as sidewalks, shopping centers, and outdoor cafes can also be sites for dog bites. Dogs in these locations may be on a leash, but they can still react unpredictably, especially if they feel cornered or threatened.
- Local Veterinary Clinics and Pet Stores – Dog bites can also occur in places like veterinary clinics or pet stores where many animals are present. Dogs may be nervous or stressed in these environments, sometimes triggering aggressive behavior.
What Are the Applicable Dog Bite Laws in Kansas City, Missouri?
In Kansas City, Missouri, several important dog bite laws protect residents and ensure public safety.
Understanding these laws can help you know your rights and responsibilities if a dog bites you.
- Leash Laws – Kansas City has strict leash laws requiring dogs to be restrained with a leash or a physical barrier when in public places. This helps prevent dogs from running loose and potentially attacking or biting someone. Owners must keep their dogs under control, especially in parks and on sidewalks.
- Dangerous Dog Ordinance – Kansas City also has regulations defining what constitutes a “dangerous dog.” A dog may be classified as dangerous if it has bitten or attacked a person or another animal without provocation or if it displays aggressive behavior. Owners of dangerous dogs may face legal consequences, including fines or requirements to muzzle the dog when in public.
- Reporting Requirements – You must report a dog bite to local animal control authorities. The law requires dog bite reports to help track the dog’s behavior and ensure authorities can take proper measures to prevent future incidents. This helps investigate the circumstances of the bite and check the dog’s vaccination history.
- Owner Liability – Missouri follows a one-bite rule in dog bite cases. This means that a dog owner can be liable if the dog has previously shown aggressive behavior or if the owner knew or should have known about the dog’s dangerous tendencies. However, even without prior incidents, you can hold an owner liable if they negligently failed to control their dog.
- Vaccination Requirements – Dogs in Kansas City must be up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations. If a dog bites someone, the owner may need to prove that the dog is current on its rabies shots to prevent the risk of rabies transmission.
Common Kansas City Dog Bite Injuries
In a Kansas City, Missouri, dog bite incident, the injuries an individual may suffer can vary widely, depending on the severity of the bite and which body parts sustained injuries.
Some of the most common injuries that can result from a dog bite incident include:
- Deep Lacerations and Cuts – Dog bites often cause deep lacerations or cuts. These injuries can range from minor scratches to severe gashes that may require stitches. Deep cuts can also damage underlying tissues, leading to complications and requiring more extensive medical treatment.
- Infections – One of the major risks of dog bites is infection. Dogs’ mouths carry bacteria that can enter the wound and cause infections. Symptoms of an infection include redness, swelling, increased pain, and pus. Infections may require antibiotics and, in severe cases, additional medical procedures.
- Puncture Wounds—Dog bites often create puncture wounds, which are deeper than they appear on the surface. These wounds can be particularly dangerous because they may damage nerves, blood vessels, or other tissues. Due to their depth, puncture wounds are also more prone to infection.
- Nerve Damage – Nerve damage can also occur depending on the bite's location and severity. This can lead to numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected area. Nerve injuries can sometimes be permanent and may require physical therapy or other treatments.
- Scarring – Even after the initial injury heals, dog bites can leave lasting scars. Scarring can be both physical and emotional. The appearance of scars can affect a person’s self-esteem, and in some cases, reconstructive surgery may be necessary to improve the appearance of scars.
- Psychological Trauma – Beyond physical injuries, dog bites can also lead to psychological trauma. Victims may experience anxiety, fear, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) related to the incident. Counseling or therapy may also be necessary to help cope with these emotional effects.
Recognizing these potential injuries can ensure timely medical attention and proper treatment, underscoring the importance of seeking prompt legal and medical advice after a dog bite incident.
Fighting the Insurance Company after a Kansas City Dog Bite
In a Kansas City, Missouri, dog bite case, dealing with the insurance company can be challenging. At Bruning Law Firm, our lawyers are skilled at handling these situations and can fight on your behalf to ensure that you receive fair compensation.
Here’s how we can help:
- Gather Evidence – Our lawyers will collect all of the necessary evidence to support your dog bite claim. This includes medical records, photographs of the injuries, and witness statements. Strong evidence is crucial for proving the extent of your injuries and the effects on your life.
- Negotiate with the Insurance Company – Insurance companies often offer a low settlement to minimize costs. Our lawyers will negotiate with the insurance company to ensure that you receive a fair settlement that covers all of your expenses, including medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
- Understand Policy Details – Insurance policies can be complex. Our lawyers will review the policy details to determine what is covered and ensure that the insurance company honors its obligations. We can also spot any potential issues or loopholes affecting your claim.
- Advocate for Your Rights – Our lawyers have experience fighting for clients’ rights. We will aggressively advocate on your behalf to ensure the insurance company does not take advantage of you. We know insurance companies' tactics to deny or undervalue claims and can effectively counteract these strategies.
- Prepare for Litigation – If the insurance company refuses to offer you a fair settlement, our lawyers can take your case to court. We will build a strong case, present evidence, and argue on your behalf to seek the full compensation you deserve.
By handling these aspects of your case, our lawyers will work to ensure that you recover the compensation you need for your dog bite injuries.
Important Steps to Take after a Dog Bite Incident in Kansas City
After a dog bite incident in Kansas City, Missouri, take specific steps to protect your health and legal rights.
- Seek Ongoing Medical Attention for Your Injuries – Ongoing medical treatment helps document the extent of your injuries, which is essential for both medical and legal purposes.
- Notify the Dog’s Owner – Inform the dog’s owner about the incident. Obtain their contact information, including their name, address, and phone number. This step is vital for identifying the dog and ensuring that it’s up-to-date on vaccinations – particularly rabies. If the owner is uncooperative, document their refusal or any communication issues.
- Report the Incident – Notify local authorities, such as Kansas City Animal Control or the Health Department, about the bite. This report can help track the dog’s history and follow proper safety and health protocols.
- Gather Evidence – Collect evidence to support your case. Take clear photos of the bite and any visible injuries. Keep a detailed log of medical treatments, including dates, procedures, and costs. Also, if possible, get contact information for any witnesses who saw the incident.
- Consult with an Experienced Kansas City Dog Bite Attorney – At Bruning Law Firm, we can provide you with invaluable guidance, explain your rights, navigate the legal system, and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages. We can also deal with insurance companies on your behalf and negotiate settlements.
Taking these steps helps safeguard your health and legal standing following a dog bite incident in Kansas City.
Discuss Your Case With Our Knowledgeable Kansas City Dog Bite Lawyers Today
If you suffered injuries in a Kansas City dog bite or attack incident, you have legal options available. The skilled legal team at Bruning Law Firm will aggressively advocate for you and work to maximize the compensation award you receive.
For a free consultation with our skilled Kansas City dog bite attorneys, please call us at (816) 370-5384 or contact us online to learn more.
