St. Louis Dog Bite Lawyer

A dog bite can be more serious than it first appears, and the insurance process starts before you’re ready for it. Thompson Law handles that side so you can focus on getting better.

Why Choose Thompson Law for Your St. Louis Dog Bite Case

Mastery of Missouri Strict Liability Law

Under §273.036 RSMo, dog owners are strictly liable regardless of the animal’s prior history. We use this standard to establish fault and prevent insurers from shifting blame.

Inside Knowledge of Insurance Claims

Most dog bite claims involve homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. Tyler’s insurance background gives him insight into how adjusters evaluate these claims and how to challenge low offers.

Every Case Is Built for Trial

Most cases resolve before trial. But insurers negotiate more seriously when they know the other side is prepared to go to court. We approach every case with that preparation.

No Upfront Costs

Thompson Law works on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Our interests are fully aligned with yours throughout the process.

What To Do After a Dog Bite in St. Louis

A dog attack can leave you shaken. Your health comes first, everything else can wait. When you’re ready, these steps can help protect your recovery and clai

1. Get Medical Care

Dog bites carry a risk of infection, including bacterial infections and rabies exposure. Get medical treatment even if the wound appears minor, and follow your doctor’s care instructions.

2. Report the Attack

File a report with St. Louis Animal Control and request a police report. An official record can document the attack, the dog, and its owner.

3. Document Your Injuries

Photograph your injuries immediately and throughout your recovery. Photos can help document how wounds and scarring progress over time.

4. Identify the Dog and Owner

Get the owner’s name, contact information, and the dog’s vaccination history. Note whether the dog was leashed, enclosed, or supervised during the attack.

5. Get Witness Information

Collect contact information for anyone who witnessed the attack or knows about the dog’s prior behavior. Witnesses can be especially important if the owner disputes what happened.

6. Keep Your Records

Keep records of medical visits, prescriptions, bills, and income lost during your recovery. These documents can help support your claim.

7. Talk to an Attorney

The dog owner’s insurer may contact you quickly after the attack. Avoid giving a recorded statement before speaking with an attorney, as early statements may be used to minimize your claim.

How Thompson Law Handles Your Dog Bite Claim

Investigating What Happened

We examine where the attack happened, how the dog was restrained or supervised, and whether prior incidents or complaints involving the animal exist. These details can help establish liability.

Finding Everyone Who May Be Responsible

The dog’s owner is often the primary defendant, but liability may also extend to a landlord, handler, or another party depending on the circumstances.

Preserving Important Evidence

Surveillance footage can be overwritten, animal control records may not be kept indefinitely, and witness memories can fade. We move quickly to preserve available evidence.

Addressing Fault and Provocation Claims

Insurers may argue that the victim provoked the dog or was not lawfully present. We address these arguments with evidence, witness statements, and the specific facts of the case.

Documenting Your Full Losses

Dog bite injuries can have lasting physical and emotional effects. We document medical costs, lost income, permanent scarring, and the psychological impact of the attack.

Handling the Insurance Company

We handle communication with the owner’s insurer, including recorded statements and settlement offers. You don’t have to deal with the insurance company on your own.

Preparing for Court

We approach every case with litigation in mind. If the insurer will not offer fair compensation, we are ready to pursue your claim in court.

Common Reasons Dog Bites Occur in St. Louis

Missouri law does not require a victim to prove the dog has bitten someone before. Several situations can lead to a dog bite claim, including:

Failure to Restrain or Leash

Allowing a dog to roam freely around guests, children, or strangers can increase the risk of a bite or attack.

Inadequate Containment

An open gate, broken fence, or unsecured enclosure can allow a dog to escape and injure someone.

Known Aggressive Behavior

A history of lunging, snapping, or biting may be important when determining whether the owner took reasonable precautions.

Violation of Local Leash Laws

St. Louis leash requirements may be relevant when a dog is allowed to run loose and injures someone.

Unsupervised Children Near Dogs

When a child is injured by a dog, the circumstances of the child’s supervision may be relevant to the claim.

Landlord Negligence

A landlord may share responsibility in some cases if they knew about a dangerous dog and failed to take reasonable action.

Attacks on Service and Delivery Workers

Dog attacks can occur when mail carriers, delivery drivers, and service workers encounter dogs while working.

Types of Dog Bite Cases We Handle in St. Louis

Thompson Law handles cases involving dog attacks and dog bite injuries, including:

Dog bites on public property
Attacks on private property involving visitors or guests
Dog bites involving children at homes, parks, or schools
Attacks on postal workers, delivery drivers, and service workers
Injuries caused by unleashed or improperly contained dogs
Attacks involving dogs with a known history of aggressive behavior
Cases involving multiple dogs
Injuries caused by a dog knocking someone down or causing a fall
Bites resulting in infection, nerve damage, or surgery
Fatal dog attacks and wrongful death claims

Each case involves different evidence, liability considerations, and insurance coverage issues.

Common Injuries Caused by Dog Bites

A bite wound can look manageable at first. What follows-the risk of infection, scarring, nerve damage, and emotional distress-can have a lasting impact.

Deep Puncture Wounds

Dog bites can penetrate the skin and deeper tissue, creating wounds that carry a risk of infection and may require medical treatment beyond basic wound care.

Lacerations and Permanent Scarring

Tearing injuries can leave permanent scars, particularly on the face, neck, and arms. Some victims may require scar revision or reconstructive surgery.

Broken Bones and Joint Injuries

A dog attack can cause fractures, dislocations, and other joint injuries, either from the bite itself or from being knocked to the ground. These injuries may require casting, surgery, physical therapy, or other ongoing treatment.

Nerve Damage

Bites to the hands, arms, and face can damage underlying nerves, causing numbness, weakness, pain, or loss of function that may persist over time.

Soft Tissue and Muscle Damage

Severe bites can damage muscle and connective tissue, sometimes requiring surgery and extended rehabilitation.

Infection

Dog bites can introduce bacteria into the body and lead to infections such as cellulitis. Tetanus and, in some circumstances, rabies exposure may also need to be evaluated and treated promptly.

Facial and Eye Injuries

Attacks involving the face or eyes, particularly in children, can cause serious injuries that may require reconstructive surgery and leave lasting changes to appearance or vision.

Psychological Trauma

A serious dog attack can cause fear of dogs, anxiety, nightmares, or other emotional distress. These effects can be especially significant for children and may continue long after the physical wounds have healed.

Psychological Trauma

Serious crashes can lead to PTSD, anxiety, and emotional distress, which may be compensable under Missouri law.

Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Dog Bite?

The dog owner is not always the only person who may be responsible. In some cases, landlords, handlers, parents, or other parties may also be liable for a dog bite injury.

Dog Owner

Under §273.036 RSMo, a dog owner may be strictly liable for bite injuries when the victim was lawfully present and the attack was unprovoked, regardless of whether the dog had bitten anyone before.

Landlord or Property Owner

A landlord or property owner may share liability if they knew a tenant kept a dangerous dog and failed to take reasonable steps to address the risk.

Dog Keeper or Handler

A person who was caring for or controlling the dog at the time of the attack, such as a dog walker, pet sitter, or family member, may also be responsible depending on the circumstances.

Parents of a Minor

If a dog is owned or controlled by someone under 18, Missouri law may allow a claim against the minor’s parents for injuries caused by the animal.

Multiple Liable Parties

More than one person may share responsibility for a dog bite. Under §537.067 RSMo, Missouri law addresses how fault and liability may be allocated when multiple parties are involved in a tort claim.

Evidence That Can Support Your Dog Bite Claim

Dog bite cases don’t require the same physical reconstruction as a traffic crash – but the documentation that matters is still time-sensitive.

Medical Records

Documentation of the bite, treatment, and ongoing care is the foundation of a dog bite claim. Keep records of appointments, procedures, medications, and follow-up care.

Photographs of Injuries

Images taken immediately after the attack and throughout recovery document wound severity, healing, and scarring progression to evaluating damages.

Animal Control and Police Reports

Official records document the incident, the animal, and the owner. Prior complaints or citations involving the same dog may also be available through these channels.

Witness Statements

Anyone who witnessed the attack or can speak to the dog’s prior behavior may provide important supporting evidence, particularly when the owner disputes what happened.

Surveillance and Doorbell Camera Footage

Nearby cameras may capture the attack or what happened immediately before it. This footage can disappear quickly if it is not identified and preserved.

Homeowner or Renter's Insurance Information

Most dog bite claims are pursued through the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. Identifying available coverage, including umbrella policies, is an early priority.

Veterinary and Licensing Records

The dog’s vaccination history, licensing, and relevant veterinary records may help establish any documented history of aggressive behavior.

Some evidence becomes harder to obtain as time passes. We move quickly to secure what matters before it is disputed or lost.

Missouri Dog Bite Law: The One-Bite Rule and What Applies to Your Case

§273.036 RSMo – Strict Liability for Dog Bites

Missouri holds dog owners or possessors strictly liable when their dog bites someone without provocation while the victim is lawfully on public or private property. Prior knowledge of the dog’s viciousness is not required, and Missouri does not follow a one-bite rule.

Comparative Fault and Provocation

If the defense argues that the victim contributed to the attack, damages may be reduced based on the victim’s share of fault. Evidence from reports, photos, and witnesses can help establish what happened.

Trespass and Provocation

Strict liability may not apply when a victim was trespassing or provoked the dog. Evidence showing lawful presence and the circumstances of the encounter can be important to the claim.

Non-Economic Damages

Missouri does not cap non-economic damages in standard personal injury cases, including dog bites. These damages may include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and scarring.

Statute of Limitations

Missouri generally allows five years to file a personal injury lawsuit under §516.120 RSMo. Acting early can help preserve evidence and protect your legal options.

The information above is general in nature. Laws change and individual circumstances vary – consult an attorney for advice specific to your case.

Compensation You May Recover After a Dog Bite

The damages available depend on the severity of the injuries, the circumstances of the attack, and applicable law. Potential compensation may include:

Medical Expenses

Emergency treatment, wound care, surgery, hospitalization, antibiotics, vaccines, and other care related to the bite and any resulting infection.

Future Medical Care

Reconstructive surgery, ongoing therapy, psychological treatment, and long-term care for permanent scarring or nerve damage.

Lost Income

Documented wages lost while injuries prevent you from working.

Loss of Earning Capacity

Compensation if permanent nerve damage, disfigurement, or disability reduces your ability to work or earn income in the future.

Pain and Suffering

Compensation for the physical pain and emotional impact of the attack and the recovery process.

Permanent Scarring or Disfigurement

Lasting physical changes, particularly facial scarring, may be considered when determining damages under Missouri law.

Psychological Trauma

Anxiety, PTSD, fear responses, and changes in daily behavior following a serious attack may be considered as part of a personal injury claim.

Other Related Expenses

Other reasonable expenses related to the attack and recovery, such as transportation to medical appointments, medical supplies, or other necessary costs.

The damages available in a particular case depend on the specific facts, injuries, and applicable law. No attorney can guarantee a particular outcome or recovery amount.

How Much Is a St. Louis Dog Bite Case Worth?

If you’ve been bitten by a dog, you may be wondering what your claim could be worth and whether it can cover everything you’ve been through. There is no standard settlement amount, but the value of your claim depends on factors such as:

Severity and location of the bite
Immediate and future medical treatment
Permanent scarring or disfigurement
Nerve damage and loss of function
Psychological impact, particularly for children
Lost income and reduced earning capacity
Strength of liability evidence and documentation
Provocation or trespass arguments
Available homeowner’s, renter’s, or umbrella insurance coverage
Overall personal and financial impact

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16 yrs

of legal experience

$6M+

Recovered for clients

100+

Cases resolved

MO + IL

Licensed to practice

Client Reviews

After a very negative experience with our first personal injury lawyer, Tyler Thompson renewed our faith in the legal system and exceeded our expectations as our represention. Tyler was very communicative, compassionate, diligent in moving our case along, and found us the right specialist who finally was able to give us an accurate diagnosis and treatment options. We highly recommend Tyler and the Thompson Law STL Firm! “

After being unsatisfied with my initial representation, I contacted Tyler who was determined, informative and confident in my case from start to finish. Through the process, he offered updates and was able to get the matter resolved to satisfaction. Beyond this, he was personable and a pleasure to be represented by- after my case finally settled, he called me that day and offered to drop the check off to me at my work. I'll be sure to share his contact with anyone who may need representation. Thank you, Tyler!

Can't speak highly enough of Tyler! He always kept me up to date on the case and was able to get my settlement higher than what the other party wanted to pay. He was timely and all around a nice guy. He even picked me up on the way to mediation. He always listened to me and I really feel like at every step of the way had my best interest at heart. I wish I could give him 10 stars out of 5!

Tyler Thompson was my attorney during a car accident situation where I was injured. He worked for a different firm at the time I hired him originally, but I liked him so much and felt he had strong character and integrity, I made the decision to stick with him as my attorney when he no longer worked there. Well, I couldn't have made a better decision. Tyler is not just a good attorney who delivers when he says he will, he is also a good person.

Injured in a Dog Bite

You don’t have to handle the claim alone. Contact Thompson Law for support.

Meet Your Attorney

Choose an Attorney Who Understands the Insurance Claims Process From Both Sides

Meet Tyler Thompson, an experienced St. Louis personal injury attorney with more than 12 years of legal experience. Before focusing on representing injured individuals, Tyler worked in insurance defense, including serving as in-house counsel for a national insurance company.

That experience gives Tyler a firsthand understanding of how insurance companies evaluate personal injury claims. He knows the questions insurers may ask, the factors they consider, and the issues that can affect the value of a claim.

Today, Tyler uses that experience to build strong cases for injured clients and negotiate with insurance companies from a position of knowledge. His goal is to help clients understand their options and pursue the compensation they deserve.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About St. Louis Dog Bite Lawyer

Does the dog have to have bitten someone before for the owner to be liable?

No. Missouri no longer follows the one-bite rule. Under §273.036 RSMo, an owner can be strictly liable for a first bite if you were lawfully on the property and did not provoke the dog. A history of biting is not required.

What if the bite happened at the owner's home?

That does not automatically protect the owner from liability. Missouri law can still apply if you were lawfully on the property, whether you were visiting a friend, stopping by a neighbor’s home, or working there. Where the attack happened does not by itself eliminate liability.

What if the owner claims I provoked the dog?

That argument does not automatically make you responsible. What happened before the bite matters, so we look at your account, witness statements, and other evidence. We can then address the insurer’s argument based on the actual circumstances of the attack.

Who pays in a dog bite case?

In many cases, the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance handles the claim. We check the available coverage, including any umbrella policy, so you understand what insurance may be available. This can help you make informed decisions about your claim and next steps.

What if a friend or neighbor's dog bit me?

You may still be able to file a claim through the owner’s insurance. Homeowner’s and renter’s policies often cover dog bite claims. Pursuing compensation does not necessarily mean you have to pay out of your friend’s or neighbor’s personal finances.

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

Missouri generally gives you five years to file a personal injury claim under §516.120 RSMo. Even so, waiting can make your case harder. Security footage may be erased, records can become difficult to obtain, and witnesses may forget important details.

How much is my dog bite case worth?

There is no set amount. Your claim may depend on the severity of the bite, scarring, nerve damage, emotional impact, lost income, future medical care, and available insurance coverage. We look at your specific injuries and losses rather than applying a standard formula.

What if the owner doesn't have homeowner's insurance?

That does not necessarily mean you have no options. We look for other available insurance coverage, such as a landlord’s or property owner’s policy when applicable. If no insurance is available, a direct claim against the dog owner may still be possible.

What if my child was bitten?

Missouri generally gives minors additional time to bring a personal injury claim, with the statute of limitations tolled until they turn 18. Even so, it is important to act early. Photos, medical records, witness accounts, and animal control records are easier to preserve sooner.

Get Your Free Case Review with a St. Louis Dog Bite Lawyer

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