Dog Bite claims
Legal Support for Dog Bite Victims
The St. Louis Dog Bite Law Experts
An estimated 4.5 million dog bites occur in the U.S. each year. Missouri’s strict dog bite laws protect victims—but insurers move fast. When a dog attack happens, you need compassionate guidance and a trial-tested team.
With 46+ years of advocacy and 7,500+ personal injury cases handled, Wolff Trial Lawyers fights for full and fair compensation while guiding families through a sensitive, stressful time.
Missouri Dog Bite Law: Strict Liability (No “One-Bite” Rule)
Missouri law (RSMo §273.036) makes owners (or possessors) strictly liable when their dog bites someone without provocation while the victim is on public property or lawfully on private property—even if the dog never bit before. Missouri does not follow a “one-bite” rule.
- Lawful presence: Public place or lawfully on private property.
- No provocation: Bite occurred without the victim provoking the dog.
- Owner responsibility: Liability can extend to certain property damage as well.
Note: Missouri’s strict liability focuses on bites. Separate negligence claims may apply for knock-downs or jumping injuries.
Comparative Fault, Trespass & Provocation
Comparative Fault
If the defense argues you share responsibility (e.g., ignoring warnings), any award can be reduced by that percentage. We move quickly to gather evidence and minimize unfair blame.
Trespass & Provocation
Owners may avoid liability if you were trespassing or provoked the dog. Our team documents lawful presence and lack of provocation using reports, photos, and witness statements.
Serious Dog Bite Injuries We See
- Puncture wounds, lacerations, crush injuries
- Nerve damage; loss of function in hands/face
- Infections (incl. rabies exposure), tetanus risk
- Scarring/disfigurement requiring revision surgery
- Fractures and avulsions
- Eye injuries and facial trauma
- Psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety, nightmares)
- Pediatric injuries with long-term impacts
Damages & Compensation
Economic Damages
- Ambulance, ER, hospitalization, surgery
- Specialists, antibiotics, vaccines, wound care
- Therapies (physical/occupational/psychological)
- In-home care and medical devices
- Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering; loss of normal life
- Emotional distress (fear of dogs, social anxiety)
- Disfigurement and scarring
- Loss of consortium (in qualifying cases)
In standard Missouri personal injury cases (like dog bites), non-economic damages are generally not capped. (Medical malpractice and some government cases have separate limits.) We calculate all present and future losses to maximize recovery.
What To Do After a Dog Bite in Missouri
- Seek medical care immediately; document wounds and treatment.
- Report the bite to animal control/police to create an official record.
- Document evidence: photos of injuries over time, location, dog (if safe), torn clothing.
- Identify the owner, insurance info, and witnesses.
- Avoid recorded statements to insurers until you have legal counsel.
- Call Wolff Trial Lawyers early—evidence can disappear quickly.
How Wolff Trial Lawyers Helps Dog Bite Victims
Investigation & Evidence
- Obtain animal control/police reports and medical records
- Interview witnesses; canvass for doorbell/CCTV video
- Track scarring progression for valuation
- Verify coverage (homeowners/renters/umbrella policies)
Building Your Claim
- Coordinate specialists (plastic surgery, psychology)
- Quantify future care and wage loss with experts
- Prepare a compelling, evidence-backed demand
- Negotiate aggressively; litigate when offers are unfair
Proudly Serving St. Louis & Surrounding Communities
Missouri: St. Louis City; St. Louis County (Clayton, Ladue, Kirkwood, Webster Groves, Brentwood, Ballwin, Chesterfield, Maryland Heights, Florissant, University City); St. Charles County (St. Charles, O’Fallon, St. Peters, Wentzville); Jefferson County (Arnold, Fenton); and nearby areas.
Dog Bite FAQ – St. Louis, MO
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Missouri?
In most Missouri personal injury cases (including dog bites), the statute of limitations is generally five (5) years from the date of injury. There are limited exceptions, so speak with an attorney promptly to preserve evidence and protect your rights.
Who pays for a dog bite—does homeowner’s insurance cover it?
Often,homeowners’ or renters’ liability insurance covers claims against the dog’s owner/possessor. Policies vary (exclusions, limits). We identify all available coverage—including umbrella policies—to maximize recovery.
What if it was a friend or neighbor’s dog? I don’t want to hurt them.
Most claims are paid by insurance, not the individual out of pocket. A claim helps cover your medical care, wage loss, and scarring treatment without jeopardizing personal relationships.
Free Consultation
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MEET St. LouiS'S Top Personal Injury Attorney
Alvin Wolff, J.D.
Alvin A. Wolff, Jr. is a distinguished St. Louis personal injury attorney with 46 years of experience handling more than 7,500 personal injury and medical malpractice cases, securing hundreds of millions of dollars in compensation for clients.
Known as “The St. Louis Personal Injury Law Firm,” Alvin and his team have earned Wolff Trial Lawyers a reputation for relentless advocacy, compassionate client care, and results-driven representation.
Relentless Advocacy = Real Results
Real World, Down-to-Earth Advice = No Jargon, No B.S.
Family Legacy of 100+ years in Personal Injury and Medical Malpractice Law
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have a case?
Every situation is different. If you were injured because of someone else’s negligence — whether in a car accident, on unsafe property, or from medical errors — you may have a case. The best way to know is a free consultation. Speak with an attorney from Wolff Trial Lawyers for free today.
What should I do right after an accident or injury?
Get medical care immediately, even if you feel fine. Then, document everything — photos, records, and witness names — and talk to a lawyer before speaking with insurance companies.
How long do I have to file a claim?
In Missouri, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is five years, but medical malpractice cases may have a shorter deadline. It’s important to act quickly so you don’t lose your right to file.
Do I need a lawyer, or can I handle it myself?
Insurance companies often try to settle for less than you deserve. Having an experienced attorney on your side levels the playing field and usually leads to a stronger outcome.
How much is my case worth?
Case value depends on your medical bills, lost wages, long-term impact, how the injury affects your life, and your quality of legal representation. While no lawyer can guarantee an amount, we fight relentlessly to get you the maximum compensation possible.
Our Areas of Expertise
Personal
Injury
Our team pursues compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering.
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We guide workers through claims for medical care, lost income, and disability benefits
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When doctors or hospitals fail in their duty of care, we hold providers accountable.
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Death
We provide compassionate support to families after the loss of a loved one.
Auto Accident
Need legal support after a car, truck or motorcycle crash? We secure your compensation.
Bicycle Accident
We stand up for injured cyclists suffering collisions and unsafe road conditions.
Dog Bite
We help victims of dog attacks, holding negligent owners responsible for serious injuries.
Premises Liability
We secure compensation for victims of unsafe property and slip-and-fall accidents..
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Important Disclosure:
The Missouri Bar requires a disclosure that contacting an attorney on this website does not constitute an attorney client relationship.
Legal advice is not given here and any past case results listed have no bearing on what your case might be worth. Every case rises and falls on its own particular merits.
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