Dog bites can cause serious injuries with long-lasting effects. While headlines sometimes point to certain breeds as more dangerous, fault rests with the dog’s owner, regardless of the breed. Any dog can cause serious injuries, but it’s still helpful to understand the most dangerous dog breeds statistically. Data on breed danger varies by study, but a small number of breeds account for a large share of fatalities. According to a study from the World Animal Foundation:
- 66% of fatalities involve pit bulls
- Rottweiler are involved in 9% of fatal attacks
- Pit bulls and rottweilers together are linked to a significant portion of fatal attacks, even though they make up about 6% of US dogs
- German Shepherds contribute around 4.2% of fatalities
It’s always important to understand that breed is only part of the equation. Proper training, socialization, supervision, and responsible ownership are crucial to preventing tragic outcomes.
If you or a loved one have been injured by a dog, contact our St. Louis dog bite injury lawyers to seek compensation today. Schedule a free consultation.
Common Injuries from Dog Attacks in St. Louis
Dog attacks often cause serious and sometimes life-changing injuries that can leave lasting physical and emotional scars. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Deep Lacerations and Scarring: Dog bites frequently puncture or tear the skin, leading to permanent scars that might also require surgery or skin grafts.
- Broken Bones: Powerful bites or being knocked down during an attack can cause fractures, especially in children and older adults.
- Nerve Damage: Severe bites can injure nerves, which may lead to long-term loss of feeling, weakness, or even paralysis in affected areas.
- Infections: Dog bites break the skin, increasing the risk of bacterial infections. In rare circumstances, a bite could also raise concerns about rabies exposure.
- Emotional Trauma and PTSD: Dog bite victims often struggle with anxiety, nightmares, and a fear of animals that may last long after physical wounds heal.
A dog bite can leave lasting consequences that impact nearly every part of a victim’s life, making quick medical care and legal guidance essential for recovery.
Missouri Dog Bite Laws
In Missouri, dog bite cases are governed by strict liability laws, which means the owner of the dog is responsible if their animal bites someone, regardless of the dog’s breed or history.
273.036. Owner liable, when — fine, amount. — 1. The owner or possessor of any dog that bites, without provocation, any person while such person is on public property, or lawfully on private property, including the property of the owner or possessor of the dog, is strictly liable for damages suffered by persons bitten, regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owner’s or possessor’s knowledge of such viciousness. Owners and possessors of dogs shall also be strictly liable for any damage to property or livestock proximately caused by their dogs. If it is determined that the damaged party had fault in the incident, any damages owed by the owner or possessor of the biting dog shall be reduced by the same percentage that the damaged party’s fault contributed to the incident. The provisions of this section shall not apply to dogs killing or maiming sheep or other domestic animals under section 273.020.
Unlike the “one bite” rule used in some states, a victim in Missouri doesn’t have to prove the dog was known to be dangerous before the attack.
If the bite happens in a public place or when the victim has a legal right to be on private property, the owner can be held liable for medical costs, lost income, and other damages. The only exceptions that might limit an owner’s responsibility are situations where the victim was trespassing or provoked the dog into attacking.
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Missouri, you don’t have to handle the medical bills, stress, and legal process on your own. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a St. Louis dog bite attorney.