KANSAS CITY ANIMAL BITES/ATTACKS ATTORNEY In Kansas City, animal bites and attacks by both domestic and wild animals happen daily. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dog bites are most common. The CDC reports that, approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur each year. Of those 1 out of 5 become infected. Children (ages 5 to 9), and men, are most at risk for being bitten/attacked by a dog. If you or a loved one has suffered injury due to an animal attack/bite, call Attorney T.Morton now to schedule your free consultation 913.602.7288 or complete this FORM.
Kansas, unlike some other states, does not have specified ordinances that apply to when a animal bites/attacks and causes injury. Instead, Kansas relies on case law precedent (the ruling made in another case) to determine liability. Animal bites/attacks, damage to livestock, or other property damage are each instances where liability can be decided. The two things Kansas state courts consider are a combination of negligence and the "one bite" rule.
*Negligence - the injured party must show that the owner failed to use reasonable care to control or prevent the animal from causing injury/damage. Examples of animal owner negligence include:
Failing to secure a dangerous animal
Pet owners violating leash and/or muzzle laws
Letting a dangerous animal wander freely on a property
Leaving an unsecured animal in a yard with the gate open
*"One Bite" rule - when an animal has already bitten someone/something it places the owner on notice about its aggressive behavior. With this knowledge, the owner must put in place preventative measures to protect others (ex. proper restraint).
Bites/Attacks Another Animal Should an animal bite or attack another its owner may be held liable for the injury and/or damages caused. (see statute) This applies to pets, livestock and service animals. Possible injuries include:
If you are bitten or attacked the Center for Disease Control and Prevention suggests the following: Minor wounds
Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water
Apply an antibiotic cream
Cover the wound with a clean bandage
See a healthcare provider if the wound becomes red, painful, warm, or swollen; if you develop a fever; or if the animal that bit you was acting strangely
Deep wounds
Apply pressure with a clean, dry cloth to stop the bleeding
If you cannot stop the bleeding or you feel faint or weak, call 911 or your local emergency medical services immediately
See a healthcare provider as soon as possible
See a healthcare provider immediately
If wounds appear infected (red, painful, warm, or swollen)
If you do not know the animal or if the animal does not have a current rabies vaccination certificate, because you might need treatment to prevent rabies
Taking care of your personal health is important. Protecting your rights and receiving compensation is too. Contact Kansas animal bite or attack Attorney T. Morton to discuss the next, best, legal steps and to schedule your free consultation 913.602.7288.
Criminal Liability In Kansas, it is possible for an owner to face criminal charges because of the actions of their animal. The consequences may include fines and jail time. In fact, owning certain breeds of dogs (ex. Pit Bulls) is prohibited, and simply ownership of such dogs may also result in fines and/or jail time.
How long will your case take to be resolved? Resolving a personal injury case can be as short as several days, or as long as several years. There are many factors that go into determining how long a personal injury claim can take to resolve, and Attorney T.Morton can adequately explain these factors to you. Contact us for your free consultation 913.602.7288 or complete this FORM.
The selection of T.Morton, and her personal injury team, is an important one and should not be taken lightly. We are dedicated to you and your case. We offer a competitive fee structure for winning your case. T. Morton, personal injury lawyer, will help you through the process and assists you in getting the compensation you deserve. Contact us for your free consultation 913.602.7288 or complete this FORM.
Copyright, T.Morton 2017. The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing it does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.