Asked in Animal / Dog Law and Personal Injury for Missouri

Q: My dog bit someone it states on the served paper "I was corralling the dog" is that proof my dogs were provoked. Missour

Does does that constitute the dog defending itself or is that a vicious bite I'm in the state of Missouri and I'm being sued because my dog bit someone who was grabbing it and picked it up while chasing it

2 Lawyer Answers
Ronald J. Eisenberg
Ronald J. Eisenberg
Answered
  • Chesterfield, MO
  • Licensed in Missouri

A: I suggest you contact your homeowner's insurance company to see if it my provide coverage and counsel. Otherwise, hire your own attorney if you can afford one. I know that you want someone to tell you that the case lacks merit, but no cautious attorney is going to tell you that. Litigation is unpredictable and just because the petition includes certain alleged facts that doesn't mean others won't come into evidence.

Kristen Thurmond
Kristen Thurmond
Answered
  • Licensed in Missouri

A: First and foremost, if you were served paperwork you need to file an answer as soon as possible to avoid a default judgment against you. Either contact your homeowner's insurance to see if they will cover this and provide you an attorney or find an attorney that defends personal injury claims. Every case is different and you may have good facts that will help you, but usually dog owners are liable for injuries their dogs cause.

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