Damages in Boonville Dog Bite Cases

Many state residents have dogs and consider them part of the family. While dogs make excellent pets, millions of people sustain damages, including bodily injuries from dog bites and attacks each year.

Civil laws protect the public by allowing you to seek legal action to collect a settlement from the dog owner, and understanding your rights to defend yourself in the aftermath is essential. Contact a qualified dog bite attorney from A.W. Smith Law Firm for more information about damages in Boonville dog bite cases when you need help with a claim.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Some examples of catastrophic injuries people sustain from dog bites include the following:

Deep puncture wounds that cause tissue damage and permanent scarring
Severe lacerations, which may require stitches
Broken or fractured bones, including extremities and limbs
Bruising, contusions, torn muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissue injuries
Temporary or permanent nerve damage, leading to weakness and loss of sensation
Dogs carry many types of dangerous bacteria in their mouths, such as Pasteurella and Staphylococcus, which may cause severe infections
Permanent scarring and disfigurement, especially involving the face, hands, and limbs
Severe and lasting psychological scars and emotional trauma, such as anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder

Prompt medical care is critical after a dog bite or attack that leaves you or a loved one with severe injuries.

Owner Liability for Dog Bites and Attacks

The state’s civil laws follow a strict liability rule for cases resulting from dog bites and animal attacks. Under Missouri Revised Statutes § 273.036, the animal’s owner is financially responsible for damages their dog causes regardless of a history of aggression. Those who are harmed may be eligible to collect compensation for medical care and other expenses.

There are two exceptions to the statute. If the court determines the injured person was taunting or abusing the dog to provoke it before the attack, or if it occurs after someone trespasses, they may be ineligible to collect a settlement for damages in Boonville dog bite cases. A seasoned attorney at A.W. Smith Law could review the statutes and answer specific questions during the free consultation.

Recoverable Damages

Settlement amounts in dog bite lawsuits can vary substantially, depending on the circumstances and severity of injuries and other losses. Some examples of recoverable damages in Boonville dog bite injury cases include:

The cost of medical care, including all expenses related to emergency care and medical treatment, such as surgical procedures and prescriptions
Medical devices, equipment, physical and psychological therapy, and transportation costs for medical appointments
Lost pay, including overtime, benefits, and earning potential for cases where the injured party must take time off work to recover from their injuries at home or in a medical facility
Payment for pain and suffering, including physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish
Compensation for permanent scarring and disfigurement
Loss of consortium, companionship, intimacy, and support

Every dog bite action is different, and the court calculates the award for damages based on the severity of bodily harm and how it will continue to affect the victim in the future. They will also consider the circumstances leading up to the attack. One of our seasoned lawyers could help collect the vital evidence to establish liability and recover a fair settlement.

Insurance Company Negotiations

Many lawsuits resulting from dog bites settle through the liable party’s homeowner insurance. The A.W. Smith Law Firm could help with insurance adjuster communication and negotiate for a just outcome in your case.

Call a Seasoned Attorney for Information About Damages for Dog Bite Cases in Boonville

Dog bites can be painful and traumatic experiences, leaving you with physical and emotional scars and a long road to recovery in the aftermath. When you are harmed in an unprovoked attack, you have the right to pursue monetary damages from the dog’s owner.

Contact one of our compassionate and skilled lawyers today for more information about damages in Boonville dog bite cases. A.W. Smith Law Firm works on a contingency basis, meaning you will only be responsible for paying legal representation and fees if you win your case.