Dog Bite Injury Attorney in Mexico, MO

Dog Bites Can Cause Lifelong Trauma or Even Death

For millions of Americans, their pet dogs are like family. Unfortunately, millions of Americans also suffer dog bites each year. The majority of people who are bit by dogs are children. If you or a loved one was bit by a dog, you may be able to receive compensation for your injuries. In Mexico, MO, Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer is the dog bite injury attorney you need to recover damages from a traumatic dog bite.

Most dog bite victims know the dog that bites them. Earn compensation for a dog bite in Mexico, MO with Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer’s personal injury attorneys by your side.

Many of us interact with friendly, well-socialized dogs every day so it may come as a surprise to learn the majority of dog bites occur between humans and dogs they are familiar with. More than half of all dog bites are caused by a close relative’s dog. While it may seem awkward to seek compensation from a family member, their negligence is often what causes a dog bite.

Why do dogs bite people?

There are many reasons for a dog to bite. They could feel endangered or stressed, leading them to believe they must fight their way out of a situation. Some dogs lack proper manners and training. While educated adults may be able to avoid a dog bite because they understand canine body language, children are less capable. A child may see a dog’s low to the ground stance and pinned ears and think the dog wants to play. It is cases like these where a child could be injured or even killed by a dog bite. 

Even friendly dogs can lash out if provoked or afraid. Family dogs are more prone to biting if they are highly stressed or agitated. Situations like these can arise when the dog is placed in an unfamiliar environment or is forced to interact with people it is not familiar with. The easiest way to prevent dog attacks is to understand your dog’s signs of distress and to watch other dogs for signs of aggression or distress. Always keep your child a safe distance from unfamiliar dogs and do not allow them to engage with any dog without express permission from the owner. Dog safety is one of the most important things you can teach a child to prevent injuries.

Dog bites in Missouri fall under strict liability laws & victims only have five years to file a personal injury claim with a dog bite lawyer

The state of Missouri takes dog bites very seriously. While many states have “one bite laws” that give owners legal protection from a first offense, Missouri allows victims of dog bites to file a suit even if it is the first time the dog has ever injured someone. This is known as strict liability. Dogs who are known to be vicious and have shown aggression such as growling, lunging, or even attacking someone previously are a huge liability. Even calm, trustworthy dogs can attack if provoked.

The dog owner’s liability in an attack will depend on the location where the attack took place. On public property like parks, the owner is liable if the dog attacks unprovoked. If the dog bites you when you are on the owner’s property legally and you have not provoked the dog, the owner would then be liable for the injury. Provocation can include throwing objects, taunting, or being aggressive with a dog. However, if you or your loved one is on private property illegally, liability may change. This also applies if the owner had reasonable signage and warnings, including no trespassing or beware of dog signs. You must consult with an experienced dog bite attorney to see if you have a case. You only have five years to do so. 

Start your personal injury case today. Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer is your Mexico, MO dog bite lawyer

After you or your child has been bit by a dog, you need an attorney who understands the nuances of dog bite cases in Mexico, MO. Missouri’s dog bite laws are strict but a seasoned personal injury attorney can help you file a dog bite claim. Reach out to us today to begin your case.