Stephen Schultz | May 29, 2025 | Settlements
In Missouri, dog bite settlements can vary widely, from a few thousand dollars to several hundred thousand, depending on the unique details of each case. Factors like the severity of the injury, medical costs, and liability play a major role in determining compensation.
Key Factors That Impact the Average Dog Bite Settlement Amount in Missouri
The value of your dog bite injury claim depends on several factors, including:
Type and Severity of Injuries
Your injuries play a major role in determining the value of your dog bite claim. In general, the more serious the injury, the higher the potential compensation. For example, if a dog bite leads to an infection requiring a week-long hospital stay, your medical expenses and related costs will be significantly greater than if the wound had healed without complications.
Similarly, a bite that results in permanent scarring or disfigurement may justify greater non-economic damages compared to an injury that heals with minimal or no visible scarring.
Evidence Proving Your Claim
Missouri law holds dog owners strictly liable for damages in most situations. Therefore, a dog owner may be liable for your injuries even though their dog has never bitten anyone, and they had no idea their dog could be vicious. However, you must still prove that the dog bit you while you were legally on private or public property. Furthermore, negligence could be a factor in some cases.
You must also have evidence proving the dog bite resulted in your injuries. The evidence must also prove how much your damages are worth. If you cannot produce substantial evidence proving each element of your claim, it could weaken your case. The insurance company or liable party may offer a lower settlement amount because they are not as fearful of a jury returning a large verdict if you take your case to court.
Comparative Negligence
The dog owner may allege that you are partially to blame for the dog biting you. For example, you ignored the signs warning you not to enter the property because of the dog, or you provoked the dog. In those cases, the state’s comparative negligence laws apply. The law states that a court may reduce the amount of damages by the percentage of the victim’s fault for their injuries.
When negotiating a settlement, the at-fault party may use contributory fault to argue for a lower settlement amount. The insurance company may argue that if you take the case to trial, the jury may assign a higher degree of blame to you, which would lower the amount of damages further.
Monetary Losses
Your economic damages include lost wages, medical bills, out-of-pocket expenses, and other financial losses. Generally, you can include these amounts in your settlement demand dollar-for-dollar. Therefore, the higher your financial losses, the more you can demand for a settlement.
However, you must prove your losses. Therefore, keeping detailed records is crucial. Write down all expenses and bills related to the dog bite injury. Keep copies of invoices, bills, and receipts to prove your expenses.
Pain and Suffering Damages
Pain and suffering damages are subjective because suffering is unique to each person and their specific situation. Proving pain and suffering damages can be a challenging task. You can improve your chances of receiving a fair settlement by keeping a journal.
Your journal should include details about your recovery, including the pain you experienced each day, the embarrassment you felt because of disfigurement, and your mental anguish because of the attack. The more details you include, the stronger your case will be.
Tips for Increasing the Amount of Your Settlement for a Dog Bite Claim in Missouri
You can improve your chances of receiving a fair settlement after being bitten by a dog by:
- Filing a report with the local animal control agency immediately
- Seek prompt medical attention after a dog bite
- Follow your doctor’s treatment plan
- Take pictures of your injuries after the attack and throughout your recovery
- Keep detailed records and copies of documents
It is also wise to consult a personal injury lawyer after a dog bite. Injury claims can involve complicated issues and laws. An attorney can help you take additional steps to protect your rights.
Maximize Your Dog Bite Settlement by Understanding Your Rights
Dog bite settlements in Missouri can vary greatly, but being informed about what impacts your claim gives you a powerful advantage. From the severity of your injuries to the quality of your documentation and legal strategy, every detail matters.
If you’ve been injured or need more information about your potential settlement, contact Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers for a free consultation with a St. Louis dog bite lawyer.
