Liability for a Dog Bite Injury in Texas
When someone’s dog bites, attacks or otherwise injures another person, the pet owner can often be held liable (financially responsible) for the victim’s medical bills and other losses. Although Texas does not have a specific dog bite statute, it allows injured parties to hold pet owners accountable under the following rules:
- One-bite rule. Evidence that the pet owner knew or reasonably should have known about the dog’s propensity for viciousness (e.g. due to a previous dog bite incident) can serve as proof of liability against the owner in an injury claim.
- Negligence. The legal doctrine of negligence holds someone responsible if he or she violated a duty of care and caused injury or harm to another person. For example, if a pet owner carelessly allowed a dog to run at large, he or she could be held responsible for a subsequent dog attack.
Dog owners in Texas have a responsibility to obey city and state pet ownership laws, including leash laws. If a pet owner breaks one of these rules or is otherwise negligent in a way that results in a dog bite injury, a civil claim could be brought against the owner in pursuit of financial compensation.
Request a Free Dog Bite Injury Consultation in Texas Today
If you, your child or another loved one has been injured by a dog in Texas, discuss your rights with an experienced dog bite attorney at Hill Law Firm Accident and Injury Lawyers. During a free initial consultation, we will listen to your story and help you understand your legal options.
You may be able to file a claim against the owner of the dog or another party, such as a property owner or landlord in Texas. Contact us online or call (210) 960-3939 anytime to schedule your free case review. We accept dog bite injury cases in San Antonio, Houston, Dallas, Austin, Fort Worth and throughout the State of Texas.
What to Do After a Dog Bite in Texas
If you get injured by an aggressive or dangerous dog in Texas, try to stay calm and take the following steps to protect your legal rights as much as possible:
- Get to a safe place away from the attacking dog. If the owner is present, make sure he or she contains or controls the dog.
- Check for injuries and get medical care right away. Always see a doctor for dog bite injuries, as you could be at risk of infections and dog-borne diseases.
- If your injuries constitute an emergency, call 911. Law enforcement can create a police report regarding the incident and send paramedics, if necessary.
- Exchange information with the pet owner, including names, contact details and facts about the dog (e.g., its vaccination history).
- Gather eyewitness information and take photos of the dog, the area where the attack happened and your injuries before you leave the scene.
- Report the dog bite injury to the authorities by calling 311. Every animal bite in Texas must be reported according to the State Health and Safety Code (Chapter 8-26).
- Contact the pet owner’s property insurance company to file a claim. Property insurance policies – including homeowners and renter’s insurance – will typically cover dog bite injuries in Texas.
- Consult with an attorney for guidance on a complicated case, such as if the insurer denies your claim, the pet owner does not have insurance, or if your injuries are severe or catastrophic.
An attorney from Hill Law Firm Accident and Injury Attorneys can carefully review your case and assist you on the path to recovery.
