St. Louis Dog Bite Lawyer
St. Louis Dog Bite Lawyer
A dog bite can leave deep wounds, permanent scars and lasting fear. Missouri law holds dog owners responsible, and Craig J. Concannon helps victims pursue full compensation.
The Physical & Emotional Toll
Dog bites can cause lasting harm
Dogs bring endless love to families, but a bite or attack can cause serious injuries: puncture wounds, broken bones, nerve damage, facial lacerations, scarring and infection. Children are especially vulnerable, and many bites are to the face.
The harm doesn't stop at the physical wounds. Some victims live with permanent disability, post-traumatic stress, fear of dogs or depression after an attack.
You have the right to pursue compensation after being bitten by someone else's dog. Craig J. Concannon assesses your case, handles the insurance company and works toward a fair resolution.
Assessing your case
We review how the bite happened and who owned or controlled the dog.
Documenting injuries
Photos, medical records and scar-revision estimates show the full impact.
Refuting defenses
We are ready for claims of trespassing, provocation and shared fault.
Recovering compensation
We pursue the owner's homeowners or renters insurance for your losses.
Strategic Preparedness
Defenses insurers use, and how we respond
Insurance companies and their lawyers often try to shift blame to the victim. Here's what to expect.
Trespassing
They may claim you had no right to be there. We gather evidence that you were lawfully present.
Provocation
They may argue the dog was provoked. We establish the true timeline and facts of the attack.
Comparative fault
They may say your actions contributed. We push back to protect your compensation.
"Minor injury"
They may downplay scars and fear. We document the physical and emotional impact.
Common Injuries
Common dog bite injuries
Dog bites can be dangerous, painful and expensive to treat.
Puncture wounds
Deep bites that carry a high risk of infection and scarring.
Facial lacerations & scars
Often affecting children, with lasting physical and emotional effects.
Learn moreCompound fractures
Powerful jaw pressure can break bones and require surgery.
Nerve damage
Crushing bites can damage nerves, causing long-term loss of function.
Missouri Law
Who is responsible?
Missouri's dog bite statute makes it easier for victims to recover. Depending on the facts, responsibility may fall on:
- The dog's owner who is generally strictly liable for an unprovoked bite.
- A person keeping the dog such as someone who was caring for or in control of it.
- Homeowners or renters insurance which pays many dog bite claims.
- A landlord or property owner in some cases, depending on the facts.
Missouri dog bite law
- Under RSMo § 273.036, a dog's owner or possessor is strictly liable when the dog bites someone without provocation while that person is on public property or lawfully on private property.
- You do not need to show the owner knew the dog was aggressive.
- Strict liability does not apply to a provoked bite, and the owner may argue your own fault should reduce your recovery.
- Most Missouri dog bite lawsuits must be filed within five years.
After a Dog Bite
What to do after a dog bite
Get medical care
Dog bites can become infected quickly. Get treated and ask about rabies.
Report the bite
Report it to animal control so there is an official record.
Document everything
Photograph your injuries and the location. Get witness names.
Get owner information
Get the owner's name and insurance information, then call Craig.
Bitten by a dog? Talk to Craig today.
Free, confidential consultation. No attorney fee unless you recover.
Questions