Need a Dog Bite Injury Lawyer in St. Louis?
Dog bites are not only immediately painful, but they create a high risk of infection that can leave the victim struggling with long-term implications. After a St. Louis dog attack, victims naturally wonder what options they have for seeking compensation for medical treatment and other expenses they have incurred because of the attack.
At The Bruning Law Firm, we can help answer your questions. If you suffered injuries in a dog attack, a St. Louis dog bite lawyer can help you understand your right to compensation and aid in the pursuit of those funds. Contact The Bruning Law Firm today for your free consultation.
Bruning Law Firm: St. Louis Dog Bite Attorneys Who Can Help
At The Bruning Law Firm, we are experienced in a wide range of St. Louis claims, from birth injury claims to defective smoke detector claims. Our experienced team of attorneys has many years of combined legal experience to help victims of many kinds of traumas recover the compensation they deserve.
With its experience and knowledge, The Bruning Law Firm can provide valuable services in your St. Louis dog bite claim, including:
Investigation of a dog's history
While you may deserve compensation regardless of how many times a dog has bitten in the past, knowing the dog's history can establish the negligence of an owner. By investigating a dog's history we can determine whether an owner has taken adequate steps to ensure their dog is safe to be around others. If there were signs a dog posed a danger and didn't take any steps to address it, they should be held accountable for compensating you for your injuries. Indeed, keeping a "dangerous dog" may result in criminal sanctions, in addition to civil liability. It's important to know all the facts of your dog bit case to ensure you are fairly compensated and to ensure careless owners are held accountable.
We can help you determine the compensation you deserve.
Do you know how much compensation you deserve for a dog bite? If the insurance company that covers the liable party, usually a property insurance company, issues a settlement offer, do you know whether you should take it? At The Bruning Law Firm, we see a wide range of cases, from minor to severe, and we know the types of impacts and expenses a dog bite victim can claim. We thus can readily determine how much your dog bite case is worth.
We'll fight on your behalf.
Dealing with the aftermath of a dog attack can be trauma enough, especially if you have found yourself with severe injuries. In many cases, victims may develop a phobia of dogs to go along with it. At The Bruning Firm, we can fight on your behalf as you focus on your health recovery. Don't go it alone—get an experienced dog bite attorney on your side. Get Bruning Law Firm on your side.
How Much Compensation Do You Deserve In a St. Louis Dog Bite?
In St. Louis, dog owners are held strictly liable for any damage their dogs cause to property or persons—regardless of any precautions they may or may not have taken, or whether they had any signs beforehand that their dogs could be dangerous, such as having a history of being vicious around people. Simply put—your dog breaks it, you pay for it. Dog owners whose dogs bite or cause other damage can be fined up to $1,000, and they may be subject to a lawsuit for damages by a victim.
This means that if you suffer injuries in a St. Louis dog attack, where the dog has an owner, you can sue the owner for damages. Because owners are held strictly liable for their dog's damages, the trickier part is often determining what expenses and impacts they may be held liable for. Typically, liability extends to compensation in a few key areas.
Medical expenses you sustain as the result of a dog attack.
Dog attacks can result in serious injuries, especially if the dog attacks near the head or face. You may spend a considerable amount of time recovering from those injuries and need numerous medical services, from immediate emergency medical attention after the attack to the cost of plastic surgery if the dog caused disfiguring injuries. You can recover compensation for all such expenses, though you must keep clear medical records to show the dog attack caused them.
Property damage you sustained in the dog attack.
A dog attack can result in considerable property damage, depending on the circumstances. You may drop any device you have on your person, such as a smartphone or music player, as you attempt to get away from the dog. A dangerous dog may break onto your property and cause all kinds of damage to your property on its way to attacking you. Even if you are lucky and avoid physical injury, you should be compensated for any property damage a dog causes. Though, that will not stop a defendant or their insurer from trying to find ways to pin the blame for the damage on you. Make sure, after a dog attack, to run through the accident in your mind and record for yourself how it occurred, so that you can establish how the dog caused damage to your property.
Wages you lost, if the dog attack prevented you from returning to work.
Injuries from a dog attack can make it difficult, if not impossible, to return to your usual job. Many people with severe injuries from a dog attack need to spend time recovering before they can go back to work, especially if their work is more physically oriented. If you can't go back to work because of your injuries, you will necessarily lose wages. You can demand compensation for these lost wages in your dog bite claim.
Pain and suffering resulting from the accident.
In addition to the tangible expenses you have immediately after the dog bite, you may be forced to endure considerable pain and suffering in your recovery. A dog bite can result in ongoing traumas: direct physical pain and limitations, in addition to the emotional trauma often associated with an attack from a vicious dog. While these don't have a price tag with them, they are impacts that debilitate your life, and you have the right to seek compensation for them.
Who Bears Liability for a Dog Bite in St. Louis?
In St. Louis dog owners are strictly liable for the damages their dogs cause. If a dog bites, the owner bears liability for the expenses that may result from that attack.
However, under Missouri law, an injured party also may share liability for a St. Louis dog bite attack. For instance, while dog bite victims who are legally on someone's private property are typically not at all liable for an attack, someone who is trespassing on the property might bear liability of their own. In the latter case, the victim contributed to the accident by their own unlawful behavior. Likewise, a dog bite victim who deliberately antagonized a dog in any way might not receive compensation for injuries received during the dog attack.
If you believe that you may bear liability for the attack based on your own actions at the time of the incident, you should consult a personal injury attorney to determine whether or not, or to what extent, you may share liability. Even if you are partially responsible, you might recover compensation.
Dog Bite Statistics: How Common Are Dog Attacks?
Dog bites are far more common than most people realize, and the financial and physical toll they take on victims is staggering. Understanding the scope of this problem helps illustrate why dog bite claims are taken so seriously by courts and insurance companies across Missouri and the nation.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur every year in the United States. Of those, roughly 800,000 require medical attention, according to data from the CDC and AVMA. That means more than 2,000 people per day visit emergency rooms, urgent care centers, or their primary care physicians for dog bite injuries.
The financial impact of dog bite claims continues to rise. In 2024, the average dog bite insurance claim was $69,272, according to the Insurance Information Institute and State Farm. Nationwide, insurance companies paid out a total of $1.57 billion in dog bite liability claims in 2024 alone. These figures reflect the serious nature of the injuries involved—including emergency room visits, surgeries, ongoing rehabilitation, and the psychological trauma that often accompanies a dog attack.
Children are the most common victims of dog bites, with over half of all dog bite injuries occurring in children. Young children are particularly vulnerable because they are closer to a dog's eye level, may not recognize warning signs of aggression, and are less able to defend themselves during an attack. Dog bites to children frequently involve the face, head, and neck—areas that can result in permanent scarring and emotional trauma.
Tragically, some dog attacks are fatal. According to CDC data, an average of 43 dog bite fatalities occur per year in the United States (based on data from 2011 to 2021). While fatal attacks are relatively rare, they underscore the potentially life-threatening danger that aggressive or uncontrolled dogs can pose, particularly to children, elderly individuals, and those who are unable to escape an attack.
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in St. Louis, these statistics make clear that you are not alone—and that the law provides avenues for recovering compensation for your injuries. A St. Louis dog bite attorney at The Bruning Law Firm can help you understand the full value of your claim.
Missouri's Strict Liability Dog Bite Law: RSMo 273.036
Missouri is a strict liability state when it comes to dog bites, which significantly benefits victims seeking compensation. Under RSMo Section 273.036, the owner of a dog that bites a person is strictly liable for any damages suffered by the victim, regardless of whether the dog had a history of aggressive behavior or whether the owner had any prior knowledge that the dog could be dangerous.
This means there is no "one bite rule" in Missouri. Unlike some states that require proof that the dog owner knew or should have known about the dog's dangerous tendencies, Missouri law holds dog owners accountable from the very first incident. If a dog bites you while you are on public property or while you are lawfully present on private property—including the dog owner's own property—the owner is liable for your damages.
However, Missouri does apply the principle of comparative fault. If the victim's own actions contributed to the incident—such as provoking the dog or trespassing on private property—the victim's recoverable damages may be reduced in proportion to their degree of fault. For example, if a court determines that the victim was 20% at fault for provoking the dog, the compensation award would be reduced by 20%. But even in cases where the victim bears partial responsibility, they may still recover a significant portion of their damages.
RSMo 273.036, which took effect on August 28, 2009, strengthened protections for dog bite victims in Missouri. If you have been bitten by a dog in St. Louis or anywhere in Missouri, this law is a powerful tool in pursuing the compensation you deserve. Contact The Bruning Law Firm to discuss how Missouri's strict liability statute applies to your case.
Dog Bite Complications and Challenges
Dog bites can cause immense pain and damage. A typical dog bite injury involves puncture wounds that cause immense pain and bleeding. In some cases, it can be difficult to stitch those wounds, since the wounds usually go straight down, rather than tearing flesh in a way that doctors can easily repair.
Serious dog bite attacks can result in other severe injuries, which require victims to go through ongoing medical treatment.
Broken Bones
Big dogs have powerful jaws that can clamp around a victim's limbs. If the dog bites down hard enough, it may cause broken bones, which are painful and take a long time to heal. A dog that bites more than once may even cause multiple broken bones, lengthening healing time. Victims with broken bones may have their leisure activities limited while they recover, or they may require assistance with basic self-care tasks. Broken bones can also, in some cases, prevent the injured victim from completing their usual job tasks, which can take away a vital source of income to pay for the hefty medical bills that often follow a dog bite.
Infection
A dog's mouth contains bacteria. When the dog breaks through the skin during an attack, that bacteria can transfer into the victim's body. From there, victims may develop serious infections, which can lead to redness, swelling, and increased pain. In extreme cases, infections following a dog bite can lead to high fevers, sepsis, or other diseases.
Rabies
Dog owners are required to vaccinate their dogs for rabies—but that doesn't always happen. Rabies is a particularly dangerous injury dog bite victims may experience. A dog that bites while infected with the rabies virus can pass the virus on to the victim. If not treated promptly, rabies can even lead to death. Sometimes, a dog may be quarantined after a dog bite incident while animal control offers work to determine whether the animal has rabies. Victims may need to begin treatment with the assumption that the dog had rabies until animal control officers can confirm whether or not the dog has rabies.
Tetanus
By way of serious infections, dogs can also pass on tetanus, also known as lockjaw. The bacteria that causes tetanus may cause tight muscles, including locking the muscles of the jaw and neck, which can make it difficult or impossible for the person to open their mouth or to swallow. Tetanus may also cause painful muscle contractions. Without treatment, it may result in death. While a tetanus shot promptly after the attack can reduce the risk of serious illness, many people do not realize that they need to seek treatment, especially after a relatively minor dog bite. You should always get medical attention after a dog bite, even if it doesn't seem serious. A medical professional is the best fit to evaluate your wounds and make sure you get any necessary treatments.
Scarring
Dogs often bite deep into the skin of the victim, leaving wounds far below the surface of the skin and into the victim's flesh. This may result in severe, lifelong scarring. When a bite creates scars on the face or other visible areas of the body, it can cause considerable psychological trauma to the victim. Sometimes, victims can turn to plastic surgery to restore normal appearance. But plastic surgery is expensive, and may not completely restore the scarred area.
Death
In some cases, dog attacks can result in the victim's death, especially when a child is a victim. Sometimes, dogs attack more than once. Other times, a bite in the wrong place can cause the victim to bleed out or contract a fatal infection. Children and older adults, in particular, may be especially vulnerable in a dog attack and more likely to die because of that attack, especially if they are alone.
The Legal Process After a Dog Bite in St. Louis
If you have been bitten by a dog in St. Louis, understanding the legal process can help you protect your rights and maximize your compensation. While every case is different, most dog bite claims follow a general progression from the moment of the attack through resolution of your claim. Here is a step-by-step overview of what to expect.
Step 1: Seek Immediate Medical Care
Your health is the top priority. Even if a bite appears minor, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Dog bites carry a high risk of infection, and some injuries—such as nerve damage or deep puncture wounds—may not be immediately apparent. Medical records also serve as critical evidence in your claim, documenting the severity of your injuries and the treatment required.
Step 2: Report the Bite to Animal Control
Report the dog bite to your local animal control agency. In St. Louis, this creates an official record of the incident and may trigger a quarantine period for the dog to check for rabies. The animal control report can also serve as valuable evidence in your case, documenting the circumstances of the attack and identifying the dog and its owner.
Step 3: Document Everything
Gather as much evidence as possible while it is still fresh. Take photographs of your injuries, the location where the attack occurred, and the dog if possible. Write down a detailed account of what happened, including the date, time, and circumstances. Collect the names and contact information of any witnesses. This documentation can be invaluable when building your case.
Step 4: Identify the Owner's Homeowner's Insurance
Most dog bite claims are paid through the dog owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance policy. These policies typically include liability coverage that applies to dog bite injuries. Identifying the owner's insurance carrier early in the process is essential, as this is usually the source of compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Step 5: Consult a Dog Bite Attorney
Before speaking with the dog owner's insurance company, consult with an experienced St. Louis dog bite lawyer. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and having an attorney on your side ensures your rights are protected. At The Bruning Law Firm, we offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Step 6: Investigation and Demand
Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation of the incident, gathering evidence, reviewing medical records, and calculating the full extent of your damages. Once your treatment is complete or your condition has stabilized, your attorney will send a demand letter to the insurance company outlining your injuries, expenses, and the compensation you are seeking.
Step 7: Negotiation or Litigation
Most dog bite claims are resolved through negotiation with the insurance company without going to trial. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, your attorney can file a lawsuit and take your case to court. Missouri has a 5-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, meaning you have five years from the date of the dog bite to file a lawsuit. While this may seem like a long time, it is best to begin the process as soon as possible while evidence is fresh and witnesses are available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bites in Missouri
What Is the Average Dog Bite Settlement in Missouri?
While every dog bite case is unique, data from the Insurance Information Institute shows that the average dog bite insurance claim nationwide was $69,272 in 2024. However, settlements in Missouri can vary significantly depending on the severity of your injuries, the extent of your medical treatment, whether you lost income, and the degree of pain and suffering you experienced. Cases involving severe injuries such as facial scarring, broken bones, or infections can result in settlements well above the national average. An experienced St. Louis dog bite attorney can evaluate the specific facts of your case to help you understand its potential value.
Can I Sue if the Dog Has Never Bitten Anyone Before?
Yes. Missouri is a strict liability state under RSMo 273.036. This means the dog owner is liable for damages caused by their dog regardless of whether the dog has ever bitten anyone before. There is no "one bite rule" in Missouri. You do not need to prove that the owner knew the dog was dangerous—the fact that the dog bit you while you were lawfully present is sufficient to establish liability.
What if I Was Bitten by a Neighbor's Dog?
If you were bitten by a neighbor's dog, you have the same legal rights as any other dog bite victim. Under Missouri law, the dog owner is strictly liable for the bite as long as you were lawfully on their property or on public property at the time of the attack. Many people hesitate to pursue a claim against a neighbor, but it is important to understand that these claims are typically handled by the neighbor's homeowner's insurance company—not out of the neighbor's pocket. Your attorney can handle communications with the insurance company so you can focus on your recovery while preserving your relationship with your neighbor.
Who Pays for Dog Bite Injuries in Missouri?
In most cases, the dog owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance policy covers dog bite liability claims. These policies typically include personal liability coverage that pays for injuries caused by the policyholder's dog. If the dog owner does not have insurance, you may be able to pursue compensation directly from the owner. In rare cases involving landlords or property managers who knew about a dangerous dog on their property, additional parties may share liability.
Can I Recover Compensation if the Dog Was a Stray?
Recovering compensation for a stray dog bite can be more challenging since there is no identifiable owner to hold liable. However, there may still be options available. If the stray dog was frequently seen in a particular area and local authorities or property owners failed to address the known danger, they might bear some responsibility. If the dog turns out to have an owner who allowed it to roam freely, that owner would be strictly liable under Missouri law. An attorney can investigate the circumstances and identify all potential sources of recovery.
How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Lawsuit in Missouri?
In Missouri, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including dog bite cases, is 5 years from the date of the injury. If you fail to file a lawsuit within this timeframe, you will likely lose your right to pursue compensation. While five years may seem like a long window, we strongly recommend taking action as soon as possible. Evidence can be lost, witnesses' memories can fade, and early action gives your attorney the best opportunity to build a strong case on your behalf.
What if My Child Was Bitten by a Dog?
Children are the most frequent victims of dog bites, and attacks on children often result in the most serious injuries—particularly to the face, head, and neck. As a parent or guardian, you have the right to file a claim on your child's behalf. Children's dog bite claims often involve not only the physical injuries but also the significant emotional and psychological trauma that can follow an attack, including fear of dogs, nightmares, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress. Missouri courts take these cases very seriously, and compensation may cover medical expenses, future treatment, counseling, pain and suffering, and any permanent scarring or disfigurement. Contact The Bruning Law Firm to discuss your child's case in a free consultation.
Why Choose The Bruning Law Firm for Your Dog Bite Case?
When you are dealing with the pain, medical bills, and emotional toll of a dog bite, you need an attorney who will fight aggressively for the full compensation you deserve. At The Bruning Law Firm, we bring the experience, knowledge, and dedication that dog bite victims in St. Louis need to recover.
- Proven Experience with Dog Bite Cases: Our attorneys have handled numerous dog bite claims throughout the St. Louis area. We understand the medical complexities of bite injuries, the insurance claim process, and how to maximize your compensation.
- No Fee Unless We Win: We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay absolutely nothing unless we recover compensation for you. There is no financial risk in hiring us to represent you.
- Deep Knowledge of Missouri Dog Bite Law: We are well-versed in RSMo 273.036 and Missouri's strict liability framework. We know how to apply the law to hold dog owners and their insurance companies accountable for the full extent of your damages.
- Access to Medical Experts: Dog bite injuries can be complex, involving infections, nerve damage, scarring, and psychological trauma. We work with medical professionals who can document the full scope of your injuries and provide expert testimony when needed.
- Aggressive Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies routinely try to minimize dog bite payouts. We know their tactics and will fight to ensure you receive fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any permanent scarring or disability.
Don't settle for less than you deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite attack in St. Louis, contact The Bruning Law Firm today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Call (314) 735-8100 to speak with an experienced dog bite attorney.
Do You Need a St. Louis Dog Bite Lawyer?
Did you suffer serious injuries in a St. Louis dog bite attack? Contact The Bruning Law Firm today at (314) 735-8100 or online to learn more about your rights and the compensation you deserve.
Dog Bite Resources
Learn more about dog bite claims and your legal options with these helpful resources:
- 5 Surprising Facts About Dog Bite Laws in Missouri
- Who Is Responsible for the Costs of a Dog Bite Injury?
- Dog Bite Lawyer: What Kind of Lawyer Do I Need for a Dog Bite?
- Dog Bite Liability Laws in Missouri
- Can I Recover for the Psychological Injuries From a Dog Bite?
- Is A Dog Owner Strictly Liable For A Dog Bite In Missouri?
Client Testimonial
"AJ and team were so delightful to work with. They were very responsive to all emails and phone calls. I always knew which step we were on in the process of getting my lawsuit settled. I was pleasantly surprised to see that the amount the settlement was for was twice that of the original coverage of the insurance company. I don't know how they did it but I am very pleased with the service they provided. Hands down easiest process, and people to deal with. 100% recommend if you have a personal injury case to be worked. Hopefully I won't need their services again, but if I do I won't hesitate to call." - Amanda W.
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February 2020
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