It is possible you are injured badly from a dog bite. Dog bites can result in scarring, infection and emotional trauma. If you were bitten in Kansas City, you may have legal rights. It is critical to be knowledgeable about those rights so you can get the medical care you deserve. Kansas and Missouri have different dog bite laws. Because Kansas City is located in two different states, it is very important you know which law applies to you. Hiring an experienced personal injury attorney in Kansas City will help you through the process.
Kansas City Dog Bite Laws
Kansas has a one bite rule, meaning the owner is typically not liable the first time a dog bites an individual. If the dog behaved aggressively before, then the owner can be liable. Missouri follows “strict liability,” meaning the owner is generally liable even if the dog had never bitten anyone. If the bite occurred in Missouri, there is usually no need to prove the dog was dangerous. If the bite occurred in Kansas, you will likely have to prove the owner knew or should have known (typically if they should have leashed the dog) the dog could have bitten. Each state has its own rules regarding negligence. For example, if the dog was in a public place and the owner did not at least keep the dog on a leash, it may be negligent. Negligence makes the case easier to prove, probably even proving the dog is dangerous, if there are witnesses or photos that can be provided.
What Counts as a Dog Bite Injury?
Not every bite breaks the skin. Some cause bruising or nerve damage. Others lead to infections. Any of these can be used in a legal case. You can also sue for emotional harm. Fear, anxiety, and nightmares count as damage. A lawyer can help you prove these in court. In some cases, the injury is permanent. Victims may lose feeling in a limb. Others need plastic surgery. Some suffer post-traumatic stress. These cases often lead to higher settlements.
Why Dog Bite Cases Are Complicated
Dog bite laws change by state and city. Some neighborhoods have extra rules. You may need to know if the dog was on a leash, behind a fence, or in public. Owners often deny their dog bit anyone. Some may claim you provoked the dog. Others might say you were trespassing. These claims can hurt your case. A personal injury lawyer knows how to fight back. They gather medical records, witness reports, and expert opinions. Also, insurance companies use delay tactics. They may ignore your calls. Or ask for documents you don’t have. A lawyer can handle all of this for you.
What a Personal Injury Lawyer Does
A lawyer can:
- Explain your rights
- Help gather proof
- Talk to insurance companies
- Take your case to court if needed
Many lawyers work on a “contingency fee.” This means they get paid only if you win.
Lawyers also know how to file paperwork. Courts often reject claims over small mistakes. A lawyer avoids that. They know court rules and deadlines.
Damages You Can Claim
You can ask for:
- Medical bills
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
- Therapy or counseling
Severe bites may need surgery. Kids often suffer worse injuries. Long-term treatment costs a lot. A lawyer makes sure all of that gets covered. Future costs can be part of your claim. If you need more treatment later, the settlement should include that. A lawyer helps in the legal process to estimate those future expenses.
What To Do After a Dog Bite
- Get medical help right away.
- Report the bite to animal control.
- Take photos of your injury.
- Get names of witnesses.
- Do not talk to the dog owner’s insurance alone.
- Call a lawyer.
The sooner you act, the better. Evidence fades. Witnesses forget. Acting fast helps your case. Also, keep all medical bills and records. Save receipts from every doctor visit. Write down how the injury affects your life. These notes help your case.
Common Defenses Dog Owners Use
Some dog owners try to avoid blame. Here’s what they may say:
- You were trespassing.
- You teased or hit the dog.
- You knew the dog was dangerous and still went near it.
- You didn’t need medical help.
A lawyer will prepare for these defenses. They’ll collect the facts to prove your side. Video footage from nearby homes or businesses can help. Witnesses who saw the dog bite can back up your story. Your lawyer will work to find this evidence.
What Makes a Strong Case?
To win, your case needs:
- Clear medical records
- Photos of the injury
- Proof of where the bite happened
- Witness reports
- A copy of the animal control report
Even better if the dog has a history of biting. That strengthens your case. Also, if the dog owner broke local leash or muzzle laws, that adds strength to your claim. It shows the owner was careless.
Local Rules That Matter
Kansas City has leash laws. Dogs must be on a leash in public. If the dog was loose, the owner could face extra fines. Some breeds must be muzzled in public. If the dog broke these rules, that helps your case. Dog owners must register their pets. If the dog was not registered, that may also work in your favor. Animal control reports can confirm these violations. A lawyer knows how to request and use these records.
When to Call a Lawyer
Right after a bite. Don’t wait. Early legal advice can save time and money.
If the bite caused:
- Deep wounds
- Scarring
- Surgery
- Missed work
- Panic or fear
You need a lawyer. They can file a claim before deadlines run out. Even if the injury seems small, talking to a lawyer helps. Some problems show up days later. The pain might get worse. Or you may need extra treatment.
Time Limits to File a Case
In Missouri, you have five years to file. In Kansas, the time limit is two years. These limits are strict. Once the time is up, you can’t file. A lawyer keeps track of these dates. Delays hurt your chances. Witnesses move away. Videos get deleted. Quick action gives you the best shot.
Insurance Companies Are Not On Your Side
Insurance adjusters work to protect the dog owner. They may offer a small payout. Or deny your claim. They might record your statement and use it against you. Let a lawyer handle those talks. Never sign anything without legal advice. You might lose your right to sue. One mistake can cost you the case.
Why You Shouldn’t Do This Alone
Dog bite cases are stressful. There’s pain, bills, and lost time. A lawyer gives you peace of mind. They handle the hard stuff while you heal. They fight for fair money. And they know how to win. Hiring a personal injury lawyer can make all the difference.
FAQs About Dog Bite Laws in Kansas City
- What should I do if a dog bites my child? Get medical help first. Then report the bite. Take photos. Call a personal injury lawyer right away.
- Can I sue if the dog didn’t break the skin? Yes. Bruising, fear, or emotional harm still count. A lawyer can explain your options.
- Will the dog be put down if I sue? Not always. That depends on the dog’s history and local laws. A lawsuit usually aims for payment, not punishment.
- How much money can I get for a dog bite? That depends on the injury, lost wages, and treatment. A lawyer will fight for a fair amount.
- Do I have to go to court? Not always. Many cases settle out of court. A lawyer helps with both options.
Final Thoughts
If a dog has bitten you or someone you love, don’t wait. Call a skilled Kansas City Dog Bite Lawyer today. Know your rights and get the help you need.