Dog Bite Lawyer in Independence

Local and Loyal Representation with 32 Years of Combined Experience

Who is liable in a dog bite incident? How does Missouri’s “strict liability” rule come in? Wrabec Law, P.C. advocates for injured individuals throughout Independence, Missouri and the surrounding areas. We have 32 years of combined professional experience, including 17 years of trial work. Dog bite accidents are generally straightforward to handle, as the owner of the dog is almost always liable. Our attorneys have a deep understanding of Missouri law and the interests of the community, so you can trust that we will craft a lawsuit for you that accurately meets your needs and goals. 

Strict Liability in Dog Bite Cases

To retain damages for a dog bite injury, the injured party must prove the dog owner’s liability for the incident. This is fairly straightforward in dog bite cases, as Missouri law establishes that a dog owner is liable for the injuries their dog inflicts if:

• the injured individual did not provoke the dog;
• the injury resulted directly from the dog bite;
• the injured individual was on public property or lawfully on private property.

While the above refers specifically to dog bites, other dog-related injuries and conduct (e.g., jumping on a person) can also result in civil claims. However, recovering damages for a dog-related injury that is not a dog bite will require the injured person who is suing (the plaintiff) to show the dog owner’s negligence, or their failure to use reasonable care that consequently led to the injuries.

Criminal Dog Bite Cases

In some situations, a dog bite or other dog-related case can result in criminal as well as civil penalties. For one, keeping a dangerous dog that has a history of biting other people or animals without provocation is a crime in Missouri. Keeping a dangerous dog is a Class B misdemeanor, and the offense may rise to a Class A misdemeanor if the bite results in serious injury or a Class E felony if a second attack causing serious injury occurs. If the dog causes the death of another person, the crime is a Class D felony.