If you’ve been the victim of a dog bite in Columbia, Missouri, seeking legal help is essential to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. At Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers, we have over 100 years of combined experience and have recovered more than $100 million for our clients. We are committed to fighting for the rights of dog bite victims and providing the legal expertise needed to navigate these complex cases. Our Columbia dog bite lawyers are here to guide you through the entire process and help you get the justice you deserve.
Dog bite accidents can result in serious injuries, including physical trauma, emotional distress, and long-term medical treatment. Having a knowledgeable lawyer on your side can make all the difference when it comes to recovering compensation. With our expertise and a focus on client-centered service, we’ll work diligently to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us online or call (314) 444-4444 for a free consultation.
How Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After a Dog Bite in Columbia, MO
Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers stands out in Columbia, MO, because of our extensive experience, strong track record of success, and commitment to providing personalized legal representation. Our team has recovered over $100 million for our clients, and our lawyers bring this wealth of knowledge and experience to every case we handle. We have received numerous certifications and awards, and we are known for our dedication to client satisfaction.
What sets us apart from other firms is our hands-on approach to every case, our personalized attention to each client, and our focus on maximizing the compensation we recover for our clients. Our reputation in the Columbia community speaks for itself, and we are the trusted choice for those who need a Columbia dog bite lawyer.
Here’s how we can help you after a dog bite accident in Columbia:
- Provide a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case
- Offer skilled legal representation backed by over 100 years of combined experience
- Help you understand your legal rights and options for recovery
- Investigate the details of the dog bite incident to determine liability
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
- Represent you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached
If you’ve suffered a dog bite injury in Columbia, we are here to help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact our Columbia personal injury lawyers today to discuss your case and start your path toward recovery.
What Is My Dog Bite Accident Case Worth?
The value of your dog bite case depends on several factors that will influence the final settlement or jury award. These factors include the severity of your injuries, the medical treatment required, the extent of property damage (if any), and whether you were partially at fault in the accident. At Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers, we will work diligently to ensure your case is valued fairly and that you receive the compensation you need to cover your medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
One key factor in determining the value of your case is the severity of the injuries sustained. A dog bite injury that requires surgery or extensive medical treatment or leads to permanent scarring will likely result in higher compensation. Additionally, emotional distress, pain, and suffering caused by the trauma of the bite and the recovery process will also impact the case’s value.
Working with a Columbia dog bite attorney from our firm can help you understand how these factors will affect your case and ensure that we maximize the value of your claim.
What Kinds of Damages Are Available to Accident Victims?
After a dog bite accident, you may be entitled to two main types of damages: economic and non-economic. Understanding these damages can help you determine how much compensation you can recover.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are those that have a clear financial value.
These include:
- Medical bills for past and future treatment related to your injuries
- Lost wages if you were unable to work due to your injuries
- Property damage caused by the dog bite, such as damaged clothing or personal items
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are more difficult to quantify but can still be substantial.
These include:
- Pain and suffering caused by your injuries
- Emotional distress or mental anguish resulting from the dog bite
- Loss of enjoyment of life if the injury has limited your ability to engage in activities you once enjoyed
Both types of damages are essential to ensuring that you are fully compensated for your injuries. With the help of a Columbia dog bite lawyer, we will ensure that your claim reflects the full extent of your losses, both financial and emotional.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Dog Bite Accident Lawyer?
At Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand that hiring a lawyer can feel like a significant financial burden. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay us unless we win your case. This fee structure allows everyone, regardless of their financial situation, to have access to top-quality legal representation.
With a contingency fee arrangement, we only take a percentage of the compensation we recover for you. If we don’t win your case, you don’t owe us anything. This ensures that we are fully invested in the success of your case and motivated to secure the best possible outcome for you.
Can I Recover Compensation If I’m Being Blamed for a Dog Bite Accident in Missouri?
In some cases, the party responsible for the dog bite may argue that you were partially at fault for the incident. Missouri follows a pure comparative fault rule, which means that you can still recover compensation even if you are partially to blame for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.
For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault for the dog bite accident, your compensation would be reduced by 20%. It’s important to work with an experienced Columbia dog bite lawyer who can help you understand how comparative fault might affect your case and ensure that you are treated fairly.
We’ll Fight to Recover Compensation for All of Your Dog Bite Accident Injuries
Dog bites can cause serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment and long recovery times.
Common injuries from dog bites include:
- Deep lacerations or puncture wounds
- Broken bones or fractures
- Scarring or disfigurement
- Infections from the bite
- Emotional trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
At Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers, we are committed to fighting for compensation for all of your injuries, whether physical, emotional, or psychological. We understand the impact a dog bite can have on your life, and we will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you need to heal and move forward.
What Causes Most Dog Bite Accidents in Columbia, Missouri?
There are several common causes of dog bite accidents in Columbia, Missouri. These incidents often occur because of the owner’s failure to properly control their dog or ensure the animal is safely contained.
Some common causes include:
- Lack of proper training or supervision of the dog
- Failure to leash or confine the dog in public spaces
- Aggressive behavior from the dog, especially when the animal feels threatened
- Unsafe conditions in the environment, such as poorly fenced yards
If you have been bitten by a dog in Columbia, it’s essential to work with an experienced Columbia dog bite lawyer who can help determine the cause of the accident and hold the responsible party accountable.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Dog Bite Accident in Missouri?
In Missouri, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is typically five years. This means you have five years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries.
It’s important to act quickly after a dog bite accident and consult with a Columbia personal injury attorney to ensure your case is filed within the statute of limitations. We will help gather all necessary evidence and ensure your case is properly filed on time.
Contact Our Columbia Dog Bite Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been the victim of a dog bite in Columbia, Missouri, it’s essential to have experienced legal representation on your side. At Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers, we offer free consultations to discuss your case and explore your legal options. With over 100 years of combined experience and more than $100 million recovered for clients, we are here to help you get the compensation you deserve.
Contact one of our Columbia dog bite lawyers today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward recovering the compensation you need to heal from your injuries.
