Dog Bite Attorney Jefferson City

A dog attack can turn a normal day into a traumatic experience in an instant. Suddenly, you’re faced with physical pain, emotional distress and the stress of mounting medical bills. The aftermath of a dog bite isn’t just about the immediate injury; it’s also about managing the ripple effects, such as lost income from being unable to work and significant changes to your daily life. If you or a loved one has been bitten by someone’s dog, you may feel unsure of what to do next. Brydon, Swearengen & England P.C. is here to help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Liability and Legal Aspects of Dog Bites in Missouri

In Missouri, dog owners are legally accountable for bites inflicted by their pets. Grasping these fundamental legal principles is crucial for pursuing justice. Missouri’s dog bite statute imposes strict liability on dog owners. A dog owner is automatically considered responsible for any damages if their dog bites someone unprovoked, irrespective of whether they were aware of the dog’s aggressive nature.

For the strict liability statute to apply, the bite must have occurred:

• On public property, or
• On private property, while the victim was lawfully present (including the dog owner’s property).

Should a dog bite occur under these circumstances, the owner can be held liable for both the physical and emotional repercussions of the injury. These can range from puncture wounds and infections to long-term emotional trauma and disfigurement.

Compensation and the Claims Process

After being injured by a dog, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses, often referred to as “damages.” The legal process for obtaining this compensation is known as a personal injury claim.

Recoverable Damages

Victims of dog bites in Missouri may be able to recover several types of damages. These can include:

• Economic Damages: These are tangible financial losses, such as current and future medical bills, lost wages from time off work, and costs for rehabilitation or therapy.
• Non-Economic Damages: These compensate for intangible losses, including pain and suffering, emotional stress and loss of enjoyment of life.

Our attorneys carefully investigate your case to prove liability and calculate the full extent of your damages, accounting for every aspect of your suffering.

The Claims Process

The claims process usually begins with filing a claim against the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance policy. While many cases resolve through settlement, insurance companies often aggressively seek to minimize their payouts. Our experienced attorneys carefully navigate these discussions, fiercely advocating for a just settlement that covers your losses. Should an equitable agreement prove elusive, we are fully prepared to vigorously litigate your case in court.

Let Us Help You Protect Your Future

A dog bite injury can drastically alter your life, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. The legal system provides a path to hold negligent owners accountable and secure the resources you need for your recovery. At Brydon, Swearengen & England P.C., we offer dedicated assistance for your case. We are committed to shedding light on your legal options and relentlessly pursuing justice for you. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your case.