Dog Bite Lawyers in St. Louis, Missouri

If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in St. Louis, Missouri, you have legal rights under Missouri's strict liability law. At Bollwerk Law, our experienced dog bite attorneys understand the physical, emotional, and financial trauma that dog bites can cause. We fight aggressively to ensure victims receive maximum compensation for their injuries.

Missouri Strict Liability Dog Bite Law

Missouri Revised Statute 273.036 makes dog owners strictly liable for injuries caused when their dog bites another person, regardless of the animal's past behavior or the owner's knowledge of dangerous tendencies. This means you don't need to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous or that the dog had bitten someone before.

Missouri's strict liability law applies specifically to dog bite injuries. However, the amount of compensation you receive may be reduced if you contributed to causing the incident through actions such as:

• Trespassing on the owner's property
• Committing a crime at the time of the bite
• Teasing, tormenting, or abusing the dog

This makes Missouri one of the most victim-friendly states for dog bite cases, as the strict liability standard eliminates the need to prove the owner's negligence or knowledge of the dog's dangerous propensities.

Common Dog Bite Injuries in St. Louis

Dog bites can result in serious physical and psychological injuries. Our St. Louis dog bite lawyers have successfully handled cases involving:

Physical Injuries

• Puncture wounds and lacerations requiring stitches or surgery
• Facial injuries and disfigurement often requiring reconstructive surgery
• Broken bones from being knocked down or the force of the bite
• Nerve damage that can cause permanent numbness or weakness
• Infections including dangerous bacterial infections
• Scarring and permanent disfigurement

Psychological Injuries

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Anxiety and fear of dogs
• Depression and emotional distress
• Sleep disorders and nightmares

Dog Bite Statistics in Missouri

Dog bite incidents are more common than many people realize:

• Over 4.5 million dog bites occur annually in the United States
• Children are most vulnerable - 50% of dog bite victims are children
• Facial injuries are common in children due to their height relative to dogs
• Most attacks involve familiar dogs - 77% of bites are from family or friends' dogs
• Home settings are most common - many attacks occur on the owner's property

Compensation Available for Dog Bite Victims in Missouri

Missouri law allows dog bite victims to recover both economic and non-economic damages. Our St. Louis dog bite attorneys work to ensure you receive maximum compensation for all your losses.

Economic Damages

• Medical expenses - emergency room treatment, surgery, medications
• Future medical costs - reconstructive surgery, physical therapy, counseling
• Lost wages - time off work for treatment and recovery
• Lost earning capacity - if injuries affect your ability to work

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering - physical pain from injuries
• Emotional distress - psychological trauma from the attack
• Scarring and disfigurement - compensation for permanent marks
• Loss of quality of life - impact on daily activities and relationships

What to Do After a Dog Bite in St. Louis

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even minor dog bites can lead to serious infections. Get medical treatment immediately, even if the wound appears small. Dog mouths contain dangerous bacteria that can cause severe infections.

2. Report the Incident

Report the dog bite to St. Louis Animal Control Services and local police. This creates an official record of the incident and may help protect others from future attacks.

3. Document Everything

• Take photos of your injuries, torn clothing, and the location
• Get contact information from the dog owner
• Obtain witness contact information
• Keep all medical records and bills

4. Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer

Speak with an experienced St. Louis dog bite attorney before talking to insurance companies. Contact our firm for a free consultation to protect your rights.

Why Choose Bollwerk Law for Your Dog Bite Case?

Attorney Jill S. Bollwerk and our legal team have extensive experience handling dog bite cases throughout Missouri. We understand the unique challenges these cases present and know how to maximize compensation for our clients.

Our Dog Bite Case Results

While every case is different, we have successfully recovered substantial settlements and verdicts for dog bite victims, including compensation for:

• Facial reconstruction surgery costs
• Long-term psychological counseling
• Lost wages during recovery
• Pain and suffering from permanent scarring

Dog Bite Prevention in St. Louis Communities

While we fight for victims' rights, we also believe in preventing future attacks through education:

For Dog Owners

• Properly socialize your dog from an early age
• Keep your dog on a leash in public areas
• Ensure your property is securely fenced
• Never leave small children unsupervised with dogs
• Train your dog using positive reinforcement methods

For the Public

• Never approach unfamiliar dogs
• Ask permission before petting someone's dog
• Avoid disturbing dogs that are eating, sleeping, or caring for puppies
• If confronted by an aggressive dog, remain calm and avoid direct eye contact

Serving St. Louis and Surrounding Missouri Communities

Bollwerk Law represents dog bite victims throughout Missouri, including:

• St. Louis City and County
• St. Charles County - St. Charles, O'Fallon, St. Peters
• Jefferson County - Arnold, Festus, Hillsboro
• Franklin County - Washington, Union
• Warren County - Warrenton

We understand local animal control procedures and court systems throughout the region.

Frequently Asked Questions About Missouri Dog Bite Law

Is Missouri a strict liability state for dog bites?

Yes. Missouri follows strict liability for dog bites under Missouri Revised Statute 273.036. Dog owners are liable for bite injuries regardless of the animal's past behavior or the owner's knowledge of dangerous tendencies.

What if the dog has never bitten anyone before?

It doesn't matter. Missouri does not follow the "one bite rule" that some states use. Even if this is the dog's first bite, the owner is still strictly liable for your injuries under the dog bite statute.

Can I sue if I was bitten on the owner's property?

Yes, you can still recover compensation even if bitten on the owner's property. However, if you were trespassing or engaged in other wrongful conduct, this may reduce your compensation under Missouri's comparative fault rules.

How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Missouri?

Missouri has a 5-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including dog bites. However, it's important to act quickly as evidence can disappear and witnesses' memories fade.

What damages can I recover from a dog bite in Missouri?

You can recover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, scarring and disfigurement compensation, and future medical costs. 

Will the dog be put down after an attack?

This depends on various factors including the severity of the attack, the dog's history, and local animal control policies. This is separate from your civil claim for damages.

What if the dog owner doesn't have insurance?

Many homeowner's and renter's insurance policies cover dog bite liability. If the owner has no insurance, we can explore other options for recovery through their insurance coverage or other available resources.

Why Choose Bollwerk Law for Your Dog Bite Case?

• Extensive experience with Missouri strict liability law
• No fees unless we win your case
• Free initial consultation and case evaluation
• Personal attention from experienced trial attorneys
• Understanding of local animal control and court procedures

Awards & Recognition

• Martindale-Hubbell AV Rating
• Super Lawyers Selection
• Millions recovered for injury victims

Don't Let Insurance Companies Minimize Your Dog Bite Claim

Insurance companies often try to downplay dog bite injuries or shift blame to the victim. Our experienced St. Louis dog bite lawyers know their tactics and fight back aggressively.