Every year, millions of people in the United States experience dog bites. According to a report, nearly one in five people bitten by dogs requires medical attention. While many dog bites are minor, some can cause serious injuries, leaving victims with physical and emotional scars.
In Houston, where dog ownership is high, understanding your rights and what to do after a dog bite is crucial. This blog post will explore the legal aspects of dog bites in Houston, outlining potential compensation options and the essential steps you should take after such an incident.
Understanding Texas Dog Bite Laws
Texas operates under the common law “one bite rule.” This means dog owners are generally not liable for the first bite their dog inflicts unless the owner knew or should have known the dog had vicious propensities.
However, this doesn’t mean you’re out of options after a dog bite. There are exceptions to the one-bite rule, and a personal injury lawyer can help you determine if they apply to your case.
Here are some situations where the one-bite rule might not apply:
- Negligence:If the dog owner’s negligence contributed to the bite, they could be held liable. This could include failing to leash the dog in public areas, leaving it unattended in an unsecured location, or provoking the animal.
- Prior Bites:If the dog has a history of biting, the owner may be liable for any subsequent bites, even if they were the first.
- Dangerous Dogs:Texas law recognizes certain breeds as inherently dangerous, such as pit bulls. Owners of these breeds may be held to a stricter standard of care and could be liable for any bites inflicted by their dog.
What to Do After a Dog Bite in Houston
The moments after a dog bite can be overwhelming. Here are crucial steps you should take to protect your health and legal rights:
- Seek Medical Attention:This is the most important step. Even minor bites can become infected. Get medical attention immediately to clean the wound, prevent infection, and document the injury.
- Report the Bite:Dog bites must be reported to animal control in Houston. This helps track dog bite incidents and identify potentially dangerous animals. You can report the bite by calling 311.
- Gather Evidence:If possible, take pictures of the bite wound, the dog, and the scene of the incident. Collect witness statements if anyone saw the attack.
- Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer:A personal injury lawyer experienced in dog bite cases can review your situation and advise you on your legal options. They can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Potential Compensation in Dog Bite Cases
The amount of compensation you may receive in a dog bite case depends on the severity of your injuries, the dog’s bite history, and the owner’s liability. However, compensation may cover:
- Medical Expenses:This includes past and future medical bills associated with treating the bite wound.
- Lost Wages:If you miss work due to the bite or your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages.
- Pain and Suffering:Dog bites can be physically and emotionally traumatic. You may be entitled to compensation for the pain and suffering you’ve endured.
- Property Damage:If your clothing or other belongings were damaged in the dog attack, you may be able to recover compensation for repairs or replacements.
People Also Ask
Do dog bites have to be reported in Texas? Yes, all dog bites must be reported to animal control in Texas.
How to report a dog bite in Texas? You can report a dog bite by calling 311 in Houston.
How much can you get for a dog bite in Texas? The amount of compensation you can receive varies depending on the specific circumstances of your case.
How long does it take to get money from a dog bite? The timeframe for resolving a dog bite case can vary depending on the complexity of the case and whether it goes to trial.
Dog bites can be a serious issue, and navigating the legal aftermath can be stressful. If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Houston, contacting a qualified personal injury lawyer is essential. An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Daniel Ogbeide Law is a Houston-based personal injury law firm dedicated to helping victims of dog bites and other animal attacks.
With a proven track record of success, our team understands the physical and emotional challenges associated with dog bites and is committed to securing the maximum compensation you deserve. Contact Daniel Ogbeide Law today for a consultation.