Dog bites can be painful and traumatic. In Kansas City, far too many people are ending up in the emergency department admitting a dog attack. If you or a loved one have been bitten by a dog, don’t go through this alone. An experienced Kansas City personal injury attorney can help you recover the money you need to recover. Below you will find specific information that you should read about what to do after a dog bite, how the law can protect you, and why it makes sense to hire an attorney.
What should I do if I am bitten by a dog?
Being bitten by a dog is an incredibly emotional experience. Therefore, one of the most important things you can do is take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your rights in the following action. If you have been bitten by a dog, here is what you should do: :
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Obtain Medical Attention
You are going to want to wash the wound with soap and water. However, you will probably want to take a clean cloth and apply pressure to the wound as well in order to stop any bleeding. You may want to call 911 and/or the ER and let them know you will be coming, or you may want to go directly to the ER, particularly if it was a very serious dog bite and is bleeding, etc. No matter how “bad” it was, there will always be the risk of infection whenA skilled lawyer provides expert legal advice, strong representation, and personalized solutions to protect your rights and resolve legal issues. you have been bitten by a dog.
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Report the Bite
You will want to report the bite to the local Police Department or local Animal Control. If you are in the Kansas City area, the Police and the Animal Control are required to report dog bites and identify the dogs. Reporting to the police and/or Animal Control will provide the opportunity to report the bite: what happened, when did it happen, where did it happen.
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Ask the Owner for Information
You should want to get the dog’s owner’s name, address and phone number, and any contact info from witnesses.
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Document The Incident
While you are there, you should document your injuries, the dog and the scene (if you can). If you can take pictures with a smart phone, do that. Pictures are a good way to show what “happened” to others.
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Call a Personal Injury Lawyer
Dog bite claims can be complex. A lawyer can guide you, talk to the insurance company, and fight for fair payment.
Kansas City Dog Bite Laws Protect You
Missouri has strict laws for dog bites. The owner is usually responsible if their dog bites someone, even if the dog has never bitten before. This rule is called “strict liability.”
In Kansas City, you can claim money for:
- Medical costs
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Scars or lasting injury
You have a time limit to file a claim. In Missouri, you must start your case within five years of the bite. Waiting too long means you could lose your right to seek payment.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bites are not all the same. Some cause minor cuts, while others lead to severe harm. Here are some common injuries:
- Deep cuts or tears in the skin
- Nerve damage
- Broken bones
- Infections like rabies or tetanus
- Emotional trauma and fear of dogs
A personal injury lawyer will review your injury and help you collect evidence. This proof shows how the bite has changed your life.
Why You Should Not Deal With Insurance Alone
After a bite, the dog owner’s insurance may offer you money. But these first offers are often too low. Insurance companies want to save money.
A lawyer knows how to:
- Review your case in detail
- Collect medical records and other evidence
- Talk to the insurance adjuster
- Demand fair payment for all your costs
When you have a lawyer, insurance companies take your claim more seriously.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Helps You
Hiring a lawyer does not have to be stressful. Many personal injury lawyers work on a “no win, no fee” basis. This means you pay nothing upfront. They only get paid if they win your case.
A Kansas City dog bite lawyer will:
- Explain your rights in plain words
- Gather proof that shows the owner is at fault
- Speak with witnesses and experts
- File all legal papers on time
- Handle calls with the insurance company
- Fight for the full amount you deserve
What Makes Kansas City Dog Bite Cases Unique?
Kansas City has local rules that may affect your case. For example, some breeds have extra rules. Also, if the dog has bitten before, the owner may face more penalties. Your lawyer will know how these local laws impact your claim. This is why working with someone who handles dog bite cases in Kansas City is so helpful.
How Long Does a Dog Bite Claim Take?
Every case is different. Some claims settle in a few months. Others take longer if there is serious injury or disagreement about who is at fault.
Factors that affect how long it takes include:
- How severe your injuries are
- Whether the dog owner admits fault
- How quickly the insurance company responds
Your lawyer will keep you informed and guide you through each step.
Get the Help You Need Today
If you or your child was bitten by a dog, you deserve help. Medical care, missed work, and pain can be overwhelming. A skilled and affordable Kansas City Dog Bite Lawyer can take on the legal fight while you focus on healing. Call today to schedule a free consultation. There is no cost to talk with a lawyer about your case. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
FAQs About Dog Bite Claims in Kansas City
Q1: Do I have to prove the dog was dangerous before the bite?
No. Under Missouri’s strict liability law, you do not have to prove the dog was known to be dangerous. The owner is usually responsible.
Q2: What if the dog bite happened at a friend’s house?
You can still file a claim. Most claims are paid by homeowners insurance, not your friend’s own money.
Q3: Can I file a claim if my child was bitten?
Yes. Children often suffer serious injuries from dog bites. You can file a claim on your child’s behalf.
Q4: What if I was partly at fault for the bite?
Missouri law may reduce your payment if you were partly at fault, but you can still recover some money.
Q5: How much money can I get for a dog bite?
It depends on your medical costs, lost wages, pain, and other factors. A lawyer can estimate what your claim may be worth.