Kansas City Personal Injury Lawyer Explains Dog Bite Laws and Compensation

The Seriousness of Dog Bites

Dog bites can be serious injuries, as they are more than just a scratch. Dog bites can injure skin, nerves and can start deep fear. Such injuries almost always require more than a band aid. They may need stitches, shots and time away from work. Victims of dog bites have rights in Kansas City, and if the dog was not your dog and you were not at fault, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for your injury. This is a way to help recover money spent on medical expenses and lost time from work and other costs.

Missouri Law: Strict on Dog Owners

Missouri has strict liability for dog bites. This means the dog’s owner is almost always at fault. The dog doesn’t need to have been bitten before. It doesn’t matter if the dog looked friendly. If the bite happened without reason, the owner is likely liable.

You must prove three things:

The dog bit you.
You were not trespassing.
You did not provoke the dog.

If all are true, you may get compensation.

Don’t Miss the Deadline

Missouri gives you five years to file a dog bite lawsuit. This time starts on the day of the bite. If you miss the deadline, you lose your legal right to sue. It’s smart to speak to a skilled and affordable dog bite lawyer in Kansas City early so you don’t run out of time.

Dog Bites Can Leave Lasting Damage

Some dog bites need just a few stitches. Others lead to surgery, infections, or even nerve loss. Common bite injuries include:

Torn skin
Puncture wounds
Scars
Muscle damage
Infections
Broken fingers or arms

Many victims also suffer from emotional harm. This may include nightmares, fear of dogs, or stress in public places. Children are at higher risk. They often get bitten in the face or neck. These bites may cause lasting disfigurement or trauma.

What Costs Can You Recover?

If a dog bites you, you may get paid for more than just your medical bills. You may also ask for:

Doctor visits
Surgery or rehab
Lost pay from missing work
Pain and suffering
Scarring
Mental stress

A lawyer can help gather these costs and build a strong case.

Who Pays for the Dog Bite?

Most dog bite claims go through the dog owner’s home insurance. These policies often cover the cost of injuries. If the owner has no insurance, you may still sue them for damages. Sometimes, a landlord or property owner can be blamed. It depends on who has control over the dog and the property.

What If the Dog Is a Stray?

Stray dogs are a problem. If no one owns the dog, it’s harder to file a claim. But don’t give up. A lawyer can:

Help find witnesses
Check for video footage
Look at reports from Animal Control

If a city or shelter failed to control the dog, you may still have a case.

How Animal Control Helps

After a dog bite, always report it to Kansas City Animal Control. They will:

Create a bite report
Check for rabies shots
Track down the dog’s owner
Decide if the dog is dangerous

This report becomes key proof for your case. Don’t skip this step.

What If You Know the Dog’s Owner?

Most bites happen with dogs you know — maybe from a friend or neighbor. You may feel bad about filing a claim. But remember: insurance pays, not your friend. The money is there to help you heal, not hurt someone close to you.

What to Do After a Dog Bite

Right after the bite, take these steps:

Wash the wound.
Get medical help.
Take clear photos of your injuries.
Report the bite to Animal Control.
Write down names and numbers of any witnesses.
Talk to a personal injury lawyer.

Even if the wound seems small, always see a doctor. Dog mouths carry bacteria that can cause bad infections.

Dog Owner Defenses to Watch Out For

Some dog owners don’t accept blame. They may say:

You were trespassing.
You scared or teased the dog.
The bite didn’t happen.
Their dog didn’t bite you.

That’s why proof matters. Keep records, photos, and reports. A lawyer will know how to push back on false claims.

What If You Were Working When Bitten?

Many bites happen while working — delivery drivers, postal workers, or service techs. If this happens on the job, you may have two claims:

Workers’ comp from your employer
Personal injury claim against the dog owner

A personal injury lawyer can help with both claims at once.

What If You Were Bitten at an Apartment?

Landlords may be at fault if:

They knew about a dangerous dog
They allowed dogs when the lease banned them
They failed to act on complaints

If the landlord had control of the property, they might share the blame. Your lawyer can check lease terms, past reports, and complaints.

Dog Bite Laws Are Not the Same in Every State

If you were visiting Kansas City from out of state, don’t assume the laws are the same. Missouri laws may be more strict or more fair than where you live. A local lawyer understands the details.

How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help

Dog bite cases are not always simple. A lawyer helps by:

Proving the bite was not your fault
Talking to witnesses
Getting vet records for the dog
Dealing with insurance
Going to court if needed

Lawyers often work on a contingency fee, meaning no upfront costs. They only get paid if you do. Call a local experienced Kansas City personal injury lawyer right away.

FAQs

1. Can I sue if a dog just scared me, but didn’t bite?

Maybe. If you fell or got hurt while running from a dog, you may still have a case. It depends on the facts.

2. Can I file a claim if my child was bitten?

Yes. Parents can file for their child. Courts may hold the money in trust until the child turns 18.

3. Will the dog be taken away or put down?

Not always. That’s up to Animal Control. If the dog is dangerous, it may be removed. Your claim is separate from that.

4. Can I get money even if the bite was small?

Yes. You can still claim medical bills, lost time at work, and pain. Even small wounds can get infected.

5. How long does a dog bite claim take to settle?

Many settle in a few months. Some take longer if the case goes to court. Your lawyer can speed up the process.