At the Law Office of Tyler Brown, our dog bite injury lawyer in Kansas City, MO, is committed to ensuring you receive total and fair compensation. We understand the law, the local community, and how to handle insurance companies and other potentially liable parties effectively.
Dog Bite Statistics
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are an estimated 4.5 million dog bites each year. However, the severity of these bites varies, with only about one in five, roughly 885,000, requiring medical attention. While fatalities from dog bites are rare, they occur occasionally.
Why Do Dogs Bite and Who Is At Fault?
In most cases, dog owners are at fault for their dog's behavior and are therefore liable for any injuries caused by their dogs. Two legal theories help determine responsibility and liability for a dog attack: strict liability and the one-bite rule.
Strict Liability
This theory holds that the dog owner is always responsible for an attack, regardless of preventive measures or attempts to mitigate dog bites or attacks. The owners may defend themselves if they can prove that the plaintiff somehow provoked the dog into attacking.
One-Bite Rule
This is based on prior knowledge that the owner's dog may bite or attack someone. It may be due to the dog's breed or personality or if the dog has a history of aggression or previous attacks.
It's important to note that these theories may vary based on local regulations, so it is crucial to consult with a personal injury attorney to understand the specific laws and rules that apply to your situation.
Provocation and Dog Bites
Please understand that you are not at fault for a dog bite unless the dog is provoked. Provocation can include acts that cause an immediate and radical change in the dog's behavior, such as hitting the dog, trapping it in a confined space, pulling on its tail or fur, or stepping on its tail.
If you provoked the other party's dog, they may attempt to blame you for the attack. However, specific actions are not considered provocation, even if the defendant claims they are. These include walking towards a dog, addressing the owner, reaching out to pet the dog, playing with or feeding the dog, and other non-threatening behaviors.
Determining provocation may depend on the overall circumstances, so it is crucial to seek the expertise of a personal injury attorney in Kansas City, MO, as the case outcome may depend on how the facts and circumstances are presented.
What to Do If Attacked by a Dog
If you are attacked or bitten by a dog, it is essential to take specific steps to protect yourself:
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Obtain the dog owner's contact information, homeowner's or renter's insurance information, and proof of rabies vaccination.
- Collect the names and contact information of any witnesses to the attack.
- Take photos of the scene and your injury.
- Contact the police or your local animal control agency.
The most crucial thing in a dog attack is your safety. Take all necessary precautions to seek help as soon as possible.
Common Injuries from Dog Attacks
Victims of dog attacks can suffer severe and life-changing injuries. Some of the most severe injuries may include:
- Deep Lacerations
- Serious Infections
- Nerve Damage
- Loss of Fingers
- Partial Paralysis
- Chronic Pain
- Scarring
In addition to physical symptoms, victims often experience emotional distress and mental anguish, in some cases even leading to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Children are the Most Vulnerable
Children, particularly those under the age of four, are the most vulnerable to dog attacks. It is common for young children to approach unfamiliar dogs without the awareness of their parents or the dog's owner, leading to tragic consequences.
Unfortunately, young children are also likely to face the most severe consequences from dog attacks. The mental and emotional impact is often more intense, and the physical injuries can have long-term effects on their growth and development.
Contact a Reliable Dog Bite Injury Lawyer in Kansas City, MO
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury from someone else's dog, the owner may be held accountable and liable for compensation. We are dedicated to ensuring that all community members who have been injured or lost a loved one due to a dog attack receive full compensation for all damages, including wage loss, medical bills, pain and suffering, and more.
Don't hesitate to get in touch with our personal injury attorney online or call 816-673-7567 to schedule a free consultation with our dog bite injury lawyer. We will help you better understand your specific dog bite injury case.