A Texas dog bite lawyer handles injury claims involving dog bites and other dog attacks. An attorney may investigate the dog's history, determine what the owner knew about previous aggressive behavior, examine whether the animal was properly controlled, gather medical and witness evidence, evaluate damages, negotiate with insurers, and pursue a lawsuit when appropriate.
Dog bite lawyers may handle cases involving:
Dog bites can cause more than minor puncture wounds. Injuries may include:
The dog owner is not necessarily the only party worth investigating. Depending on the circumstances, potentially responsible parties may include:
Consider speaking with a Texas dog bite lawyer when:
Consider the following factors while choosing Dog Bite lawyers in Texas:
Does Texas have a one-bite rule?
Texas dog bite liability can involve the owner's knowledge of an animal's dangerous tendencies as well as negligence-based theories. A prior bite can be important evidence, but the absence of a previous bite does not necessarily mean an injured person has no potential claim.
Can I make a claim if the dog never bit anyone before?
Potentially. Depending on the circumstances, a negligence claim may be available when an owner or another responsible party failed to use reasonable care in controlling the dog.
How long do I have to file a dog bite lawsuit in Texas?
Texas generally provides a two-year limitations period for personal injury lawsuits. Exceptions can affect the applicable deadline, so claims should be evaluated promptly.
What evidence should I collect after a dog bite?
Photos, medical records, witness information, animal-control reports, prior complaints, video footage, information about the dog and owner, and documentation of financial losses may be useful.
What compensation may be available after a dog attack?
Depending on the circumstances, compensation may include medical expenses, future treatment, lost income, pain and suffering, scarring, disfigurement, impairment, and other qualifying losses.
When should I contact a dog bite lawyer?
Consider legal help when injuries are serious, permanent scarring occurs, a child is injured, liability is disputed, the dog's history needs investigation, or an insurer denies or undervalues the claim.