Legal Options After a Dog Bite Incident

Dog bite incidents can be traumatic and leave victims with not only physical injuries but also emotional scars and financial burdens. In the state of Texas, particularly in Corpus Christi, victims of dog bites have legal options to pursue compensation for their injuries. Understanding your rights and the steps you can take following a dog bite incident can help you navigate the complexities of the legal process. If you’ve been bitten by a dog, a Corpus Christi personal injury lawyer from the Edwards Law Firm can provide the legal guidance you need to protect your rights and seek justice.

Texas Dog Bite Laws: One-Bite Rule

Texas follows what is known as the "one-bite rule." This rule holds that dog owners may not automatically be held liable for their dog’s actions unless it can be proven that the owner knew or should have known about the dog’s dangerous behavior. In other words, if a dog has previously bitten someone or shown signs of aggression, the owner could be held liable if the dog bites someone again. However, if the dog has never exhibited aggressive behavior, proving liability may be more challenging.

While the one-bite rule adds some complexity to dog bite cases, it does not mean that victims cannot seek compensation. If the dog owner acted negligently, failed to control their dog, or violated local leash laws, they can still be held accountable for the injuries caused by their pet.

Legal Grounds for Compensation in a Dog Bite Case

Victims of dog bite incidents have several legal avenues they can pursue to seek compensation for their injuries. The following are the most common grounds for filing a personal injury claim after a dog bite:

• Negligence: If a dog owner fails to take reasonable steps to prevent the dog bite, such as keeping the dog on a leash, properly fencing their yard, or warning others about the dog’s aggressive tendencies, they may be found negligent. Negligence is often used as a legal basis to hold the dog owner responsible for the victim’s injuries.
• Strict Liability: In some cases, strict liability may apply. This means the dog owner can be held liable for the bite, regardless of whether they knew the dog was dangerous. In Texas, strict liability is often applied when a dog has a history of aggression or when local ordinances, such as leash laws, are violated.
• Premises Liability: If a dog bite occurs on private property, premises liability may come into play. This legal doctrine holds property owners responsible for injuries that occur on their property, including those caused by dogs. If the dog bite happened on someone else’s property and the owner failed to take proper precautions, they could be held liable.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite Incident

If you’ve been bitten by a dog, it’s important to take immediate action to protect both your health and your legal rights. Here are some critical steps to follow after a dog bite incident:

• Seek Medical Attention: Dog bites can lead to serious injuries, infections, and even rabies. It’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if the bite seems minor. Prompt medical care can prevent complications and help document the extent of your injuries, which will be crucial if you decide to pursue a legal claim.
• Report the Incident: In Corpus Christi, it’s important to report any dog bite incidents to local authorities, such as animal control or the police. Reporting the incident creates an official record that can support your case, especially if the dog has a history of aggressive behavior.
• Document the Incident: Gather as much evidence as possible about the dog bite. Take photos of your injuries, the location of the incident, and the dog itself, if possible. Get the contact information of the dog owner and any witnesses who saw the attack. This documentation will be essential in building your case.
• Avoid Speaking with Insurance Adjusters: The dog owner’s insurance company may contact you to offer a settlement. It’s important not to speak with insurance adjusters or accept any settlement offers without first consulting a personal injury lawyer. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and accepting a settlement too early may prevent you from receiving the full compensation you deserve.
• Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer: Navigating the legal system after a dog bite incident can be complicated, especially when dealing with Texas’s one-bite rule and the specifics of local laws. A skilled personal injury lawyer can evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Compensation for Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bite victims may be entitled to compensation for a wide range of damages. The compensation you receive will depend on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the circumstances surrounding the dog bite incident. Common forms of compensation include:

• Medical Expenses: Victims can seek compensation for all medical expenses related to the dog bite, including emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, medication, and rehabilitation.
• Lost Wages: If the dog bite causes you to miss work, you can pursue compensation for lost wages and any diminished earning capacity if the injury affects your ability to work in the future.
• Pain and Suffering: Dog bites often result in significant physical pain and emotional trauma. Compensation for pain and suffering addresses the non-economic damages you have experienced due to the injury.
• Scarring and Disfigurement: Dog bites can cause permanent scarring and disfigurement, especially when the injuries are severe. Compensation can be awarded for the long-term impact of these injuries on your appearance and self-esteem.
• Emotional Distress: The emotional impact of a dog bite, especially for children or those who have experienced severe attacks, can be profound. Compensation for emotional distress acknowledges the psychological toll of the incident.
• Rehabilitation and Therapy: Some dog bite victims require ongoing physical therapy or counseling to recover from their injuries. These costs can also be included in a compensation claim.

Filing a Dog Bite Claim in Corpus Christi

Filing a dog bite claim in Corpus Christi typically involves working with an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. The legal process usually begins with an investigation into the incident, followed by the filing of a claim with the dog owner’s insurance company or directly with the courts.

In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the injury. This means that victims have two years to file a lawsuit, so it’s essential to act quickly to ensure your case is heard.

Why You Need a Corpus Christi Personal Injury Lawyer

Dog bite cases can be legally complex, especially when dealing with the nuances of Texas law. Hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer from the Edwards Law Firm ensures that your case is handled professionally and that you have the best chance of receiving the compensation you deserve.

Our team will investigate the incident, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf. We’ll also negotiate with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement or take your case to court if necessary. With our help, you can focus on healing while we handle the legal details.

The Edwards Law Firm

A dog bite can have lasting physical, emotional, and financial consequences. Fortunately, Texas law provides legal options for victims to seek compensation for their injuries. By taking the right steps after an incident and working with a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer, you can hold negligent dog owners accountable and receive the financial support you need to recover.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite incident, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced Corpus Christi dog bite lawyer at the Edwards Law Firm. We’re here to provide the legal support and guidance you need to pursue justice and secure compensation for your injuries. Call(361) 320-6752 or fill out the contact form on our website. We serve clients throughout the Texas Gulf Coast region.