Dog Bite Laws in Kansas City: The Basics
Kansas City dog bite laws differ depending on where you’re located relative to the state line. Kansas and Missouri have different laws regarding dog bites.
In Kansas: One Bite Rule
Kansas follows the “one bite” rule. In other words, the owner will only be liable if he knew the dog was potentially hazardous. If the dog has bitten previously or acted aggressively, the owner could be at fault. But if this is the first time, it could be harder to win your case. You will need concrete evidence to establish the dog had deadly propensities. This can be prior complaints, police reports, or witness statements.
In Missouri: Strict Liability
Missouri does not take a second bite. The owner is responsible in this instance if his dog bites someone, even if the dog has never gotten into a fight. If you were bitten in a public place or lawfully on private land, you may sue. You must also show that you did not instigate the dog. Missouri’s statute makes it easier to recover money for medical bills, pain, and stress. Knowing what state you were in when you were bitten is important. It decides how your case is handled and your chances of winning.
What a Personal Injury Lawyer Does for You
Dog bites have led to hospitalizations, infections, scarring, and emotional trauma. An experienced Kansas City personal injury lawyer gives you the money you need to heal. Here’s how.
Understands the Law
Laws are hard to read sometimes. Your lawyer will interpret your rights for you. They know what evidence holds and what the courts are interested in. They will walk you through that first phone call right through to the final court date.
Builds a Strong Case
A strong lawyer will:
- Get your medical records
- Interview witnesses
- Get pictures of injuries
- Get records from animal control if necessary
- Work together with doctors or experts if necessary
They will also get all your documents in order. They will utilize timelines and injury charts to show the impact of the bite.
Handles Insurance Companies
Insurance companies try to pay out as low as possible. Your lawyer will answer the calls, letters, and documents. They know how to push back and negotiate more.
If the first offer is inadequate, your lawyer can negotiate for more or sue. Most victims who have a lawyer receive more than victims who don’t have a lawyer.
Takes the Case to Court
When negotiations with the insurance company don’t work, your lawyer can sue. They will appear on your behalf in court and present your case.
They’ll use your doctor’s file, expert witness, and photographs to show how the bite changed your life.
What to Do If a Dog Bit You
Time is of the essence with a dog bite. Take these steps right away.
1. Get Medical Treatment
Even a small bite can get infected. Visit a doctor or go to the emergency room. Take all the treatment advice. Keep monitoring your visits and costs.
A clean wound today will swell or bleed later. Always check back with your doctor.
2. Report the Bite
Call 311 in Kansas City or report it online on the city’s website. This tracks dangerous animals and helps your case.
Be sure to request a copy of the report. Your attorney will need it as proof.
3. Take Photos
Take photographs of your wounds, the dog (if available), the scene, and anything else that assists in demonstrating what occurred.
Photo evidence is best. Take photos frequently to demonstrate how the injury heals—or does not.
4. Obtain Witness Information
If someone witnessed the bite, obtain the witness’s name and contact information. They may be valuable if your case is heard in court.
One witness is better than no witnesses at all.
5. Call a Personal Injury Attorney
Don’t delay. The earlier you seek legal assistance, the greater your chances of receiving a full payout.
Waiting too late can undermine your claim. Call right away so your attorney can move quickly.
What You Might Get Paid For
Dog bite victims can recover money for:
Medical Expenses
This includes emergency room treatment, doctor visits, surgery, medication, and physical therapy. Even future medical expenses might be covered.
At other times, you may need long-term care or a skin graft. Those are not free.
Lost Wages
If you had to miss work from the bite, you can recover the lost wages.
If the injury affects your ability to do your job in the future, you can also get money for impaired earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering
Dog bites can be traumatic. The majority of victims are afraid of dogs after the attack. Some get panic attacks. You can be compensated for emotional suffering.
Mostly, these cases involve mental health treatment. Anxiety, nightmares, and fear of society are normal after a bite.
Scarring or Disfigurement
If the bite resulted in scarring, you can receive extra money. This is more likely in the event the scar is on your face or neck.
Visible scarring hurts your self-esteem. Your attorney can add this to the claim.
Permanent Disability
Some bites injure muscles or nerves. In case you can’t move like before, your attorney can advocate for long-term assistance.
This may further involve physical therapy and future operations.
How a Lawyer Develops Your Case
A solid case involves concise facts and evidence. Here’s what your attorney will do:
Clear Liability
They need to demonstrate the owner was negligent. In Missouri, this is simpler because it has harsher laws. In Kansas, they will need to establish the dog was already established to be a menace.
Local leash regulations or residential regulations could be used to establish fault.
Evidence of Injury
Pictures, physician’s notes, and treatment expenses assist in demonstrating the severity of the bite.
Medical records have to coincide with the story that you tell. Your attorney will verify that all adds up.
Connection between Bite and Losses
You need to prove the bite resulted in your medical expenses, lost time at work, or other problems. Your attorney connects the dots.
FAQs
1. Can I sue if the dog never bit someone before?
Yes. In Missouri, it doesn’t matter if it’s the initial bite. In Kansas, it can be more difficult, but your attorney can locate other indications the dog was not safe.
2. What if I was on private property?
After all, if you were there legally, you can still bring a claim. But if you were trespassing, your prospects might be less.
After all, your reason for being there does matter. Deliveries, visits, and employees have better claims.
3. What if I know the dog owner?
You can still make a claim. The money typically is from their insurance, not from their pocket.
It safeguards your friendship or family bond. It’s not personal—it’s care and recovery.
4. What if I didn’t get bitten but still got hurt?
If your dog bit you, you may have a case. The same applies if a dog knocked you down or inflicted some other type of injury. Your attorney can tell you about your possibilities.
These cases do matter if the dog was out of control or inadequately trained.
5. How long will it take to file?
Missouri gives you five years. Kansas allows two years. Don’t delay. The sooner you start, the better.
Time goes fast when you’re in recovery. Act early and let your lawyer handle the rest.
Why Speed Matters
Don’t delay. Waiting can hurt your case. Witnesses forget. Medical bills pile up. Lawsuits take time. Early action helps your lawyer build a stronger claim. Lawyers can move fast if they have time. The earlier they start, the more they can do. Even if you’re unsure about suing, call a lawyer. Most offer free consultations. They’ll tell you what to expect and what steps to take next.
Ask questions. Get answers. Then decide what’s best for you.
Final Thoughts
A dog bite can change everything around. But you don’t have to go through it alone. If you were bitten in Kansas City, a dog bite lawyer can fight for your rights. They will help you get money for your suffering, medical bills, and lost time.
Don’t struggle in silence. Call and get the help you deserve. The beginning is a call. Let someone advocate for your cause. Let healing start today.
