Columbia Dog Bite Attorney

Protecting Your Rights and Seeking Justice

A dog bite can leave lasting physical injuries, emotional trauma, and unexpected financial burdens. If you or your child has been bitten or attacked by a dog in Columbia, MO, you may be entitled to compensation. At Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C., our experienced legal team understands the challenges dog bite victims face and is committed to protecting your rights. Our Columbia dog bite lawyer can guide you through the claims process, hold negligent owners accountable, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Need help with a dog bite injury in Columbia? Call Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C. today at (888) 287-1046 or contact us online to learn how we can protect your rights and get you the compensation you deserve!

Missouri Dog Bite Law

Dog bite laws vary from state to state. In Missouri, the law favors victims by applying what is known as a strict liability rule.

• Strict Liability for Dog Owners: Under Missouri Revised Statutes § 273.036, a dog owner is held strictly liable if their dog bites someone—regardless of whether the dog had previously shown aggressive behavior or whether the owner had knowledge of potential danger. This means that unlike in some states, victims in Missouri do not have to prove that the dog had a history of violence.
• Conditions for Liability: To establish a valid claim, the victim must show:
  • The bite occurred while the victim was in a public place or lawfully on private property.
  • The victim did not provoke the dog.
• Criminal and Civil Liability: In addition to civil liability for damages, dog owners may also face criminal consequences if their negligence leads to a serious injury.

Recovering Compensation After a Dog Bite in MO

Dog bites can cause far more than minor cuts or scratches. Victims often experience:

• Physical Injuries: puncture wounds, broken bones, nerve damage, disfigurement, and infections.
• Emotional Trauma: anxiety, PTSD, and lasting fear of animals.
• Financial Burdens: costly medical treatment, missed work, and long-term rehabilitation.

At Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C., we fight to recover full and fair compensation for these damages. Potential compensation may include:

• Medical Expenses: hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and ongoing care.
• Lost Wages: if the injury prevents you from working temporarily or permanently.
• Pain and Suffering: physical pain and emotional distress caused by the attack.
• Scarring and Disfigurement: compensation for permanent visible injuries.
• Loss of Quality of Life: damages for reduced ability to enjoy life as before the incident.

In some cases, a dog bite may also lead to punitive damages if the owner’s conduct was particularly reckless or intentional.

Because every case is unique, it’s crucial to have a lawyer review the circumstances of your claim. An experienced Columbia dog bite attorney will know how to negotiate with insurers and, if necessary, present a strong case in court.

Dog Bite Claim FAQs

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

Missouri’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including dog bites, is five years from the date of the injury. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to compensation.

Can I file a claim if my child was bitten by a dog?

Yes. Children are some of the most common victims of dog bites. Parents or guardians can bring claims on behalf of their children, and the law generally provides strong protections for minors.

What if the dog belongs to a friend, family member, or neighbor?

Many people are hesitant to file claims against someone they know. However, in most cases, compensation comes from the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy—not directly from their personal finances.

What if I was partially at fault?

Missouri follows a pure comparative fault system. If you were found to have provoked the dog or contributed to the incident in some way, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault, but you can still recover damages.

What should I do immediately after a dog bite?

• Seek medical attention right away.
• Report the incident to local authorities or animal control.
• Take photos of your injuries and the location of the attack.
• Gather contact information for the dog’s owner and any witnesses.
• Contact a lawyer as soon as possible.

Contact Our Columbia Dog Bite Lawyer Today 

Every dog bite incident is unique, but the consequences can be significant. Victims may suffer from considerable injuries such as infections, nerve damage, or permanent disfigurement. Understanding the full extent of the impact requires legal insight, which is why consulting a dog bite attorney in Columbia is crucial. Our team prioritizes the well-being and recovery of our clients, ensuring they have the strong legal support necessary to build their cases.

Dog bite injuries often require long-term medical care and rehabilitation, which can be financially burdensome. Victims may face weeks, if not months, of recovery time. Additionally, emotional trauma and fear of animals can linger long after physical scars have healed. At Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C., we understand these challenges and are committed to securing just compensation to cover medical expenses, therapy, and any other losses resulting from your incident.

If you’ve been injured by a dog bite in Columbia, don’t face the legal process alone. Reach out by calling (888) 287-1046 today to discuss your case with a trusted Columbia dog bite lawyer!