Being bitten by a dog can take a significant emotional, physical, and mental toll on you. You can’t help but worry about the mounting costs associated with healthcare, time off work, and mental health support services. It can also feel as though you’re very much alone as you try to determine liability and hold a negligent dog owner to account for their dog’s actions. With so much on the line, legal help can be necessary. Keep reading to learn who’s liable for a dog bite in Texas and why it can be so crucial to seek legal help. What Is Dog Bite Liability in Texas? Laws for dog bites in Texas are wide-ranging based on the situation. That’s why seeking help from a trusted dog bite lawyer can be worthwhile. They can learn about your situation and determine the liability component. One-Bite Rule The one-bite rule in Texas means that a dog owner can be found liable for the medical bills and damages resulting from an animal that is known to be dangerous or could be dangerous. If the animal has never bitten anyone before, the owner can be found not liable. Negligence While the one-bite rule in Texas can provide dog owners some grace, it doesn’t protect them from negligence. If you were bitten by a dog, you may be able to recover damages if you can prove the dog owner failed in their duty of reasonable care expected in the situation. An experienced dog bite lawyer in Texas and dog bite victims must prove negligence in these ways: The owner of the dog had a duty of care The owner of the dog breached their duty of care The victim wouldn’t have suffered from a dog bite if the dog owner didn’t fail in their duty of care The dog owner knew that harm could happen if they breached their duty of care Comparative Negligence Dog bite incidents aren’t always entirely the fault of the dog owner. Dog bite victims can also share negligence in what is known as comparative negligence. Comparative negligence can be the outcome in many situations, such as: The victim provoked the dog The victim was partly at fault The victim was trespassing If a dog bite victim is found partially responsible, the claimable damages can be reduced. If they are found 50% or more responsible for the dog bite, they can’t recover damages. When Is a Dog Owner Legally Responsible for a Dog Bite in Texas? Under the various laws like negligence, comparative negligence, and the one-bite rule, a dog owner is legally responsible for a dog bite in Texas in a range of situations, including: The dog displayed prior aggressive behavior and/or have bitten before The dog owner failed to prevent the attack in a public place or on private property The dog owner violated local leash or restraint laws Damages You Can Recover in a Dog Bite Case Dog bites can turn a victim’s entire life upside down. Fortunately, an experienced dog bite lawyer will work hard to ensure you’re adequately compensated for your experience. Economic Damages Economic damages describes the financial losses you incurred as a result of your dog bite. These include: Medical expenses like emergency room visits, surgical procedures, follow-up care, medication, and therapy Future medical costs you anticipate, like physical therapy, plastic surgery, and mental health support Lost wages from not being able to work while you were recovering and/or attending appointments A loss of earning capacity if your dog bite will affect your ability to earn in the future Property damage, such as ripped clothing from the attack Non-Economic Damages Non-economic damages refer to the harm you’ve suffered. Examples of non-economic damages in a dog attack include: Mental anguish and emotional distress, such as PTSD after the attack Pain and suffering while you heal A loss of life enjoyment Scarring and disfigurement Punitive Damages While rarely awarded, punitive damages can be awarded when a dog owner was malicious or grossly negligent. For example, they might have known their dog was dangerous but had inadequate fencing and let it roam. Punitive damages are a way to punish and deter the dog owner. Why You Should Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer Knowing there are such robust rules and repercussions for dog owners, you might be wondering why you really need to contact a dog bite lawyer in Texas. It can be worthwhile for a range of reasons: Prove the dog owner’s negligence Communicate with insurance companies on your behalf Negotiate and communicate while you focus on your recovery Maximize your compensation Put together a strong case Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer at Parks Law Firm in Texas If you or a loved one has been bitten by someone else’s dog in Texas, the experienced legal team at Parks Law Firm is here to help. We understand the toll a dog bite can take and are here to fight for your right to the compensation you deserve. Contact us for a free, no-obligation case review today. You can expect expect experienced legal representation and no upfront fees! We only get paid if we win for you. Share article:
