Dog bites do more than simply tear skin. They may result in pain, fear and even lasting scars, emotionally and physically. If you have sustained a dog bite in Kansas City, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. An experienced and affordable Kansas City personal injury lawyer can help you begin your claim. This page discusses how an attorney can assist you with your claim – what to do after the bite, how the law applies, and how to find justice.
Dog Bites Are Common and Serious
Dog bites happen more than people think. The Centers for Disease Control say about 4.5 million dog bites occur in the U.S. every year. Many lead to doctor visits or worse. Some bites cause deep wounds. Others lead to infections or nerve damage. In Kansas City, both Kansas and Missouri laws apply. Each state handles dog bite claims in a different way.
What Missouri Law Says About Dog Bites
Missouri is a “strict liability” state. That means the dog owner is often responsible—even if the dog never bit before.
To file a claim, you must show:
- The dog bit you.
- You were in a public place or lawfully on private land.
- You didn’t provoke the dog.
If all three apply, the owner may owe you money.
What Kansas Law Says About Dog Bites
Kansas uses a “one-bite rule.” That means the owner is liable only if they knew the dog was dangerous. You must prove:
- The dog had shown aggression before.
- The owner knew about it.
- The owner failed to keep the dog under control.
It’s harder to win in Kansas, but not impossible. A good lawyer can help gather proof that will help in the legal process.
What a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Do
A personal injury lawyer makes a big difference in dog bite cases. Here’s how they help:
1. Check if You Have a Case
The lawyer will look at the facts. Did the dog bite break the law? Were you where you had a right to be? Were you hurt?
2. Collect Proof
A strong case needs proof. Your lawyer will:
- Talk to witnesses
- Get medical records
- Find out if the dog bit before
- Get animal control reports
3. Talk to the Insurance Company
Most dog bite claims go through the dog owner’s home insurance. Your lawyer will handle this for you. They’ll keep the company from lowballing your payout.
4. Get You Paid
Your lawyer will fight for money for:
- Medical bills
- Lost work time
- Pain and fear
- Scars and lasting harm
They work to get the most you deserve.
5. File a Lawsuit If Needed
If the insurance won’t pay fairly, your lawyer may sue. They’ll handle court papers, court dates, and trial steps.
When Should You Call a Lawyer?
Right away. The sooner you act, the better your chance. Fast action helps protect proof and avoids missed deadlines. In Missouri, you have five years to file. In Kansas, it’s two years. But don’t wait. Time can erase key facts.
What If the Dog Belongs to a Friend or Family?
This is common. People feel bad suing someone they know. But most claims don’t cost the dog owner. The insurance company pays. You can still be kind and fair—while taking care of yourself.
What If a Dog Bit Your Child?
Kids are common victims. They’re small, fast, and often don’t see warning signs. A bite to a child may lead to more damage—both in the body and the mind.
A lawyer can help parents get fair pay for:
- Medical care
- Counseling
- Missed school
- Scars
- Pain and fear
What About Dangerous Dogs in the Neighborhood?
If a dog has a history of bites or attacks, call animal control. You can file a report. If you or someone else gets hurt, that report helps prove the dog was a danger. A lawyer can use that report in your case.
How Much Money Can You Get in a Dog Bite Case?
Each case is different. Some people get a few thousand dollars. Others may get six figures.
What affects the amount:
- How bad the bite is
- Where the bite is on your body
- If you miss work
- If the dog owner was careless
- Past behavior of the dog
A lawyer can give you a better idea after reviewing your case.
Do You Have to Go to Court?
Not always. Many claims settle outside court. But if the other side won’t pay, your lawyer may file a lawsuit. Most cases still settle before trial.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Kansas City
Act fast. These steps help your case:
- Get medical help
Even small bites can get infected. - Report the bite
Call animal control. They may know the dog. - Take photos
Capture your injuries, the scene, and the dog if you can. - Get names and contacts
Witnesses can help prove what happened. - Call a lawyer
They’ll guide your next move.
Why Waiting Hurts Your Claim
Waiting can lead to:
- Lost proof
- Faded memories
- Missed deadlines
- Weak claims
The sooner a lawyer gets involved, the better your chance of winning.
Don’t Let Fear Stop You
You may feel bad. You may fear upsetting the dog owner. But your health, money, and future matter. You didn’t choose to get hurt. You have a right to get help.
A Local Lawyer Knows Kansas City
A local personal injury lawyer understands the courts, laws, and process in Kansas City. They know how to speak to local judges and juries. That gives your case more power.
FAQs
1. Can I still file a claim if the dog has never bitten anyone before?
Yes. In Missouri, the owner is liable even if the dog has no past bites.
2. What if I was partly at fault—can I still get paid?
Maybe. Missouri uses “pure comparative fault.” You may still get money, even if you’re partly to blame.
3. Can I sue if the dog just scared me but didn’t bite?
Sometimes. If the dog knocked you down or caused harm another way, you may still have a case.
4. How long does a dog bite claim take to settle?
It varies. Some settle in months. Others may take over a year. Your lawyer can give a timeline.
5. What if the dog owner has no insurance?
You may still sue. A lawyer can check for other ways to get paid, like personal assets or renters insurance.
Get Legal Help for a Kansas City Dog Bite Today
A dog bite can leave deep wounds—both inside and out. You don’t have to face it alone. A personal injury lawyer can help you take the next step. Call a local skilled Kansas City dog bite lawyer today. Get answers. Get support. Get justice.