Dallas Dog Bite Attorneys
Fighting For Dog Bite Injury Victims in Texas
Dog attacks, while often underestimated, can pose significant risks to the public, leading to severe injuries or, in the worst cases, fatalities. Given the affectionate nature of dogs as companions, it’s essential to recognize when and how dog attacks occur, the legal framework around them, and the recourse available to victims.
An estimated 4.5 million dog bites occur annually in the United States, with significant incidents requiring medical attention. Due to its large population and many dog owners, Texas ranks high among states for these incidents. Such statistics underscore the need for awareness and preventive measures to mitigate the risk of dog bites.
At Colin B. Bober and Associates, we bring deep experience, genuine client care, and a proven legal approach to individuals who have sustained injuries in dog attack incidents. We conduct thorough investigations to establish liability, negotiate assertively with insurance companies, and represent our clients vigorously in court, if necessary. We aim to secure the compensation you need to recover and move forward with your life.
Schedule a free consultation with our Dallas dog bite lawyer via email on our contact form or by phone at (214) 974-4180.
Understanding Texas Dog Bite Liability Laws
In Texas, the “one-bite rule” applies, meaning a dog’s owner cannot be held liable for the first bite the dog inflicts, provided they were unaware of the dog’s aggressive tendencies. Subsequent incidents, however, open the door for liability claims if it can be proven that the owner knew of the dog’s propensity for biting and failed to take adequate preventive measures.
In Texas, dog bites can fall under personal injury and premises liability, depending on the incident’s circumstances. Personal injury claims typically center on the negligence of the dog’s owner or keeper, where it must be proven that they knew of the dog’s aggressive tendencies and failed to take proper precautions.
An example of a personal injury case could include a postal worker being bitten by a dog that had escaped from its yard. The dog owner failed to take sufficient measures to secure the dog and thus was responsible for the postal worker’s damages.
Premises liability, on the other hand, might apply if the bite occurred on the pet owner’s property, and it can be demonstrated that the owner failed to ensure the safety of visitors concerning potential dog attacks.
The classification of a dog bite case into either category depends on specific facts, such as the location of the attack and the owner’s prior knowledge of the dog’s behavior.
Common Injuries in Dog Bite Accidents
Some of the most common injuries include:
- Puncture Wounds and Lacerations: Dog bites commonly result in puncture wounds and deep lacerations. These injuries can cause significant pain and bleeding and may require stitches or surgical intervention. Additionally, puncture wounds can lead to infections, including tetanus and rabies, if not properly treated.
- Nerve Damage: Severe dog bites can damage nerves, leading to loss of sensation, movement, or chronic pain in the affected area. Nerve damage can have long-term effects on a victim’s ability to perform daily activities and may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Scarring and Disfigurement: Dog bites usually result in scarring and disfigurement, particularly if the bite occurs on the face, arms, or legs. These scars can be permanent and could require plastic surgery to improve appearance and functionality. The psychological impact of visible scars can also be significant, affecting a victim's self-esteem and mental health.
- Infections: The risk of infection is high with dog bites because of the bacteria present in a dog's mouth. Common infections include cellulitis, sepsis, and rabies. Prompt medical treatment is essential to prevent these infections from becoming severe and causing further health complications.
- Broken Bones: In some cases, the force of a dog bite can break bones, especially in the hands, arms, or legs. Fractures can require immobilization, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery to ensure proper healing. Broken bones can also result in long-term problems such as arthritis or reduced mobility.
- Emotional Trauma: Being bitten by a dog can cause significant emotional and psychological trauma. Victims may experience anxiety, fear of dogs, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Emotional trauma can affect a victim’s quality of life and may require therapy or counseling to overcome.
Potential Compensation in Dog Attacks
Dog bites can result in deep cuts, puncture wounds, and skin tearing, which may require stitches. In more severe cases, dog bites can damage muscles or tendons. Attacks by large or muscular dogs can result in falls, causing injuries ranging from broken bones, concussions, dental damage, and more. Where a dog is particularly vicious, an attack can lead to extreme physical and psychological trauma and even death.
As in other personal injury/premises liability claims, victims of dog attacks may be entitled to compensation for their past and future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma. Compensation can only be secured through a legal claim. You generally have two years from the date of the incident to file a claim.
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Steps to Take After a Dog Bite Incident
To protect your rights and support your claim, you should take immediate steps after a dog attack:
- Seek medical attention to prevent infections and document the injuries, even if the injury appears minor.
- Report the incident to local animal control or law enforcement; this is crucial for a legal case and helps prevent future attacks by the same dog.
- Gather evidence, such as photographs of your injuries, the location of the attack, and the dog, if possible.
- Get the contact information of any witnesses to the attack; they could provide valuable testimony.
- Consult with an attorney at Colin B. Bober and Associates; we can advise you on how to seek compensation for damages.
How Our Firm Can Assist
Our law firm is deeply experienced in handling dog bite cases, providing comprehensive support from the initial consultation to securing compensation. For those who have suffered from a dog bite or attack, understanding your legal rights is the first step towards healing and recovery. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the process, working to help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.
Contact us online or at (214) 974-4180 to consult with a Dallas dog bite attorney today.
What Clients are Saying
REviews & TEstimonials
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Colin Bober is fantastic and always has his client’s best interests at the center of everything he does. Colin is relentless when negotiating with the insurance company.
- Lauren -
He provides the level of service every client deserves. Colin welcomes the challenges from insurance companies...and he fights for the maximum compensation for the pain and injuries his clients sustain due to the negligence of another.
- Former Client -
I trust Colin to the fullest extent, he will forever be my go-to attorney if I ever needed one again.
- Former Client -
I hired Colin to represent me. He made quick work and the issues were resolved quickly. I have full confidence in his abilities and would highly recommend him!
- Jake -
Colin made our first experience hiring a lawyer a breeze. He answered all of our questions and concerns and made sure we never felt lost or helpless during this process.
- Nina