Columbia Dog Bite Attorneys
Your Advocates for Justice Against Animal Attacks
We love dogs. In fact, dogs are the most common pet type in the United States. However, that doesn’t mean every dog owner should be one. Some owners don’t train or discipline their pets, which leads to aggressive and misbehaved dogs.
If you’ve been bitten by a dog and suffered serious injuries, talk to our Columbia, MO, dog bite lawyers. We’ll hold negligent dog owners accountable for not taking care of their dogs and seek the justice and compensation you deserve.
Tell us what happened over a free consultation. We operate on a contingency-fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win.
Call (573) 444-8888 or contact us online today for a free consultation.
Our Case Results
While most of us love dogs and want to show them affection, some dogs can cause us serious injuries. That’s why we hold negligent dog owners accountable for not taking care of their pets. Here are a few successful cases, including animal attacks:
- $300,000: Our client, a child, suffered multiple injuries from a neighbor’s uncontrolled dog.
- $10,000: Our client’s dog was attacked and injured by another dog. We were able to get the owner compensation to pay for their pet’s treatment.
Missouri Dog Bite Statistics
Dog bites are more common than you may realize, and with that, the stereotype of them attacking mall carriers. In fact, they are some of the most dangerous animals in the U.S. According to national data from the U.S. Postal Service, over 5,800 postal workers alone were victims of dog attacks in 2023.
Missouri ranks 10th in the country for dog bites, with 180 reported cases in 2023, an 8% increase from the previous year.
Missouri Dog Bite Laws
Missouri law requires that dog owners be responsible if their pet bites someone without being provoked. That means even if the dog does not have a history of aggression, dog owners are liable for damages when a dog wrongfully attacks someone.
You can file a claim if:
- You were lawfully on public or private property
- You did not provoke the dog
- The attack left injuries and other damages
Simply put, if a dog bites you without provocation, the owner is accountable. If a dog attack caused you to suffer serious injuries, contact our dog bite attorney in Columbia.
Call (573) 444-8888 or contact us online today for a free consultation.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
Under Missouri law, victims of dog bites have 5 years to file a personal injury claim. It’s important to speak to our attorneys so we can help you meet the appropriate deadlines and the maximum settlement possible.
- Important Note: The statute of limitations for filing a Missouri personal injury claim will be 2 years after August 28, 2025.
Learn More Here: Reducing Missouri Personal Injury Statute of Limitations
What to Do After an Animal Attack
If a dog has bitten you, you need to address your injuries immediately in case of any long-term effects:
- Get Medical Care: Address any visible injuries right away and get tested for rabies or other potential diseases the dog may have transmitted.
- Document the Incident: Take photos of your injuries and collect information about the dog and its owner. If there are any witnesses to the attack, ask if they’ll make a statement for you.
- Check the Dog’s Vaccination Records: Ask the owner if the dog is current on its shots and vaccinations.
- Consult a Lawyer: Reach out to a dog bite lawyer in Missouri for professional legal advice and representation. They can help you file a claim and, if necessary, represent your case in court.
Learn more about the timeline for settling a claim
What Compensation Can I Seek After a Bite in Columbia, Missouri?
Dog bite injuries can have lasting consequences, including physical pain, emotional distress, and financial losses. If you’re a victim of a dog attack, you may be able to secure compensation for the following:
- Medical Expenses (surgeries, physical therapy, medications)
- Lost Wages from time off work during recovery
- Pain and Suffering, including emotional trauma (e.g., PTSD or anxiety around dogs)
- Disfigurement and Scarring from bites or surgeries
Our lawyers and support staff of investigators, case managers, and medical records specialists will help you build a strong case so you can secure the compensation you need.
Mike’s Got This! Schedule Your Free Consultation!
You need help from our Columbia animal attack attorneys at DM Injury Law to help you secure the financial compensation you need to move forward. Let our team investigate your case and fight for your justice.
Tell us your story over a free consultation. You don’t pay us unless we win.
Call (573) 444-8888 or contact us online today for a free consultation.
Past results obtained on behalf of clients afford no guarantee of future results and every case is different and must be judged on its own merits.