Austin Dog Bite Lawyer

Austin Dog Bite Injury Lawyer

Dog bites can be a traumatizing experience, both physically and emotionally and dog bite victims are usually faced with costly medical bills and other expenses related to the injury. The right attorney, experienced in dog bite cases, can help you fight for justice and pursue the compensation you deserve.

​​At Loewy Law Firm, we understand the unique challenges of recovering from a dog bite injury. Our experienced Austin dog bite attorneys can provide you with guidance and support while seeking the compensation you need to recover and move on with your life. Contact us today for a free legal case review.

Dog Bite Statistics

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), millions of people in the United States are bitten by dogs each year and attacks can be fatal. From 2011-2021, dogs killed 468 people in the US.

According to a study on fatal dog bites in Texas, 88 percent of fatal canine attacks occur on the dog owner’s property. In addition, children are the most affected by dog bites, with the AVMA reporting that roughly half of those bitten are under the age of 16.

In Austin and Travis County, dog bites have shown an overall upward trend. The state of Texas made the USPS “Top 10” list for dog bites coming in at #2 with 434 bites in 2024. The Insurance Information Institute reported that in 2025 there were 28,450 dog bite claims, up 25.6% from 2024 and up 49.25% from 2023. 

Dog Bite Injuries

A dog attack can produce injuries ranging from surface wounds to permanent disability, and the nature and severity of your injuries directly determine the medical evidence Loewy Law Firm needs to build your case and document the full extent of your losses.

Lacerations and Scarring

Deep cuts and permanent scarring, especially facial scarring, support disfigurement damages that go well beyond standard medical bills. Photos taken throughout recovery carry significant weight with insurers and juries alike.

Muscle, Tendon, and Ligament Damage

Bites that reach below the skin can damage underlying tissue in ways that require surgery and extended rehabilitation, and medical expert testimony is what establishes the full cost of future care.

Nerve Damage

Enough bite force can damage nerves in the area, causing lasting pain, numbness, or physical disability, and specialist documentation of long-term functional limitations is what captures the full value of nerve damage in a case.

Facial Injuries

Fractures, broken teeth, and eye damage from a dog bite frequently require multiple procedures and carry psychological effects that outlast the physical recovery by years. Compensation accounts for both immediate costs and long-term quality of life impact.

Infections

Tetanus, rabies exposure, and bacterial infections like Staphylococcus and Streptococcus add medical complexity to a case, particularly when treatment extends over weeks or months.

Emotional Trauma and PTSD

Anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder are compensable under Texas law as non-economic damages, and consistent psychological treatment records paired with a documented impact on daily life strengthen that portion of your recovery.

What Should You Do if Attacked by a Dog in Austin?

If you are attacked by a dog in Austin, taking the proper steps to protect your health and legal rights is crucial. Here are the steps to take after a dog bite injury:

1. Get medical treatment: If you suffer a dog bite injury, seek medical attention immediately. Even if your injuries appear minor, getting a professional medical evaluation can help diagnose any underlying issues that may be present and prevent future infections. Keep all records of your medical treatments and bills related to the injury.
2. Collect information about the dog and owner: After receiving medical treatment, try to gather information about the dog and its owner, including the name and contact information of the owner, as well as details about the breed and age of the dog.
3. Take photos: Taking pictures of the scene where the attack took place and of your injuries can be very helpful in a legal case. Make sure to take close-up shots of any bite marks or scratches on your body.
4. Report the attack: After a dog bite, you should report the attack to Austin Animal Services, so they can document and investigate the incident and provide resources regarding animal control laws in the city.
5. Keep all of your records: After reporting the incident to the authorities, store all documents related to the incident, like medical bills, police reports, and other documents.
6. Contact an Austin dog bite lawyer: After being injured by a dog attack, consider contacting an experienced dog bite attorney in Austin who can help you understand your legal rights and work to get you the best possible outcome in your case.

Does Texas Have a One-Bite Rule?

Texas follows the “one-bite rule,” which means you may be able to recover compensation by showing the dog had bitten someone before or displayed threatening behavior, and that the owner knew or reasonably should have known about it. A dog bite victim can use the following evidence to establish the owner’s prior knowledge:

• The owner kept the dog chained or muzzled
• The owner received reports of the dog growling, attacking other dogs, or lunging at people
• The owner trained the dog to fight or serve as a guard dog
• The owner warned others about the dog’s tendency to bite
• The owner posted a “Beware of Dog” sign on the property

One exception applies to trespassers: if the bite occurred while you were on the owner’s property without permission, the owner may not be liable for your injuries.

Types of Dog Bite Claims

Texas law gives dog bite victims more than one way to pursue compensation, and the facts of your case determine which applies.

Negligence applies when a dog owner fails to take reasonable precautions to prevent a bite. Violating Austin’s leash ordinance, failing to restrain a dog in a fenced yard, or ignoring a dog’s known aggressive behavior can all establish negligence when someone is injured as a result.

Strict liability applies when the owner knew the dog had previously bitten someone or displayed dangerous tendencies. Under strict liability, you do not need to prove the owner was careless. Knowledge of the dog’s history is enough to establish liability regardless of what precautions the owner took.

Third-party liability extends responsibility beyond the dog’s owner in certain situations. A landlord who knew about a tenant’s dangerous dog and failed to act can be held liable. A business that allows dogs on the premises without requiring leashes may share responsibility for a resulting bite. Dog walkers, pet sitters, kennels, and groomers can also be held accountable when their handling of an animal contributed to the attack.

Comparative Negligence for Texas Dog Bite Injuries

Texas is a modified comparative negligence state, which means any percentage of fault assigned to you reduces your compensation by that same percentage. If you are found 20% at fault, your award is reduced by 20%. If your share of fault exceeds 50%, you cannot recover damages from the dog’s owner. Provoking the animal, entering the property without permission, or ignoring visible warnings can all factor into a comparative negligence assessment.

What Types of Compensation Can You Get for a Dog Bite Injury?

Compensation in dog bite cases is designed to cover both economic and non-economic damages, addressing the immediate and long-term impacts of the injury. Here’s a breakdown of the compensation types and influencing factors:

Types of Compensation That May Be Available:

• Medical Expenses: Emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and physical therapy may all be recoverable, along with the cost of any future medical treatment related to the bite.
• Lost Wages: Compensation covers income lost while recovering from your injuries, and extends to loss of earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or working in the same capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, anxiety, fear, and the impact of scarring or disfigurement are all compensable as non-economic damages.
• Property Damage: Clothing, glasses, or other personal property damaged in the attack can be compensated at repair or replacement cost.
• Punitive Damages: When a dog owner’s conduct was particularly reckless or egregious, a court may award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and discourage similar behavior.

Factors Influencing Compensation Amount:

1. Severity of Injuries: The more severe and long-lasting the injuries, the higher the potential compensation. Permanent injuries or disabilities typically result in higher awards.
2. Impact on Quality of Life: Compensation can be influenced by how the injuries affect your daily life, including your ability to enjoy hobbies, perform household tasks, and maintain relationships.
3. Economic Losses: The total amount of economic losses, including medical bills and lost wages, directly impacts compensation.
4. Liability and Negligence: The degree of fault of the dog owner and any comparative negligence on the part of the victim (if applicable) can adjust the compensation amount.
5. Insurance Coverage: The dog owner’s insurance policy limits can also influence the compensation amount, especially in settlement negotiations.

Our experienced dog bite lawyer can help victims assess the full extent of their damages, gather the necessary evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies for compensation that is adequate to cover all losses, both immediate and future.

Steps in a Dog Bite Lawsuit

A dog bite lawsuit in Austin has several steps, from the initial consultation to the final outcome of the case. Here’s a straightforward look at what you can expect during the process:

1. Initial Consultation

The process begins with a meeting with an Austin dog bite lawyer. During this meeting, you’ll discuss the details of the bite, including when and where it occurred, the extent of your injuries, and any interactions you’ve had with the dog’s owner or their insurance company. This consultation is usually offered at no cost and is confidential.

2. Case Evaluation

Your lawyer will review the merits of your case, taking into account factors such as the severity of your injuries, the circumstances of the dog bite, the evidence available, and the applicable Texas dog bite laws. This step determines the potential for a successful claim and the strategy to pursue.

3. Filing the Lawsuit

If your case has a solid foundation, the next step is to officially file a lawsuit. Your attorney will prepare and submit the necessary legal documents to start the court process. This action formally accuses the dog owner (or another liable party) of negligence that resulted in your injuries.

4. Discovery Phase

Both sides will exchange information during the discovery phase. This includes gathering evidence, taking depositions, and compiling medical records and witness statements. The goal is to build a strong case by uncovering all relevant facts.

5. Negotiation and Settlement

Dog bite cases are usually settled outside of court. Your lawyer will negotiate with the dog owner’s insurance company to reach a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and possibly pain and suffering. If both parties agree on a settlement, the case can conclude without going to trial.

6. Trial

If a settlement can’t be reached, the case will likely go to trial. During the trial, both sides will present their evidence and arguments. A judge or jury will then decide the outcome of the case and the compensation you’re entitled to, if any.

7. Resolution

Whether through a settlement or a trial verdict, the final step is the resolution of your case. You will receive compensation based on the agreed settlement or the court’s decision and your attorney will handle the legal and administrative tasks to ensure you receive your compensation.

Challenges in Dog Bite Cases

1. Proving Liability: One of the primary challenges in a dog bite case is establishing the dog owner’s liability. Under Texas law, proving that the owner knew or should have known about the dog’s aggressive tendencies can be complex. This often requires gathering substantial evidence, such as previous reports of aggression or witness statements.
2. Comparative Negligence: As mentioned previously, Texas operates under a modified comparative negligence rule, which can complicate dog bite cases. If the victim is found partially at fault for the incident (for example, by provoking the dog), the compensation awarded can be reduced accordingly.
3. Gathering Evidence: Collecting comprehensive evidence to support your claim is critical, but can be challenging. This includes medical records, photographs of injuries, witness statements, and any previous complaints about the dog. Evidence must be collected promptly to ensure its accuracy and relevance.
4. Dealing with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Victims may face lowball settlement offers or disputes over the severity of injuries and the need for compensation. Our dog bite attorney can negotiate effectively with insurance companies to seek fair compensation.
5. Statute of Limitations: In Texas, dog bite cases has to be filed within a specific timeframe after the incident. Acting quickly and efficiently is essential to avoid missing this critical deadline, which can bar the victim from pursuing compensation.
6. Emotional and Psychological Impact: The emotional and psychological effects of a dog bite can be significant, yet proving these impacts in court can be challenging. Demonstrating the extent of emotional distress requires detailed documentation and, in some cases, expert testimony.
7. Determining the Value of Your Claim: Accurately assessing the full value of your claim, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care costs, is complex. It requires a thorough understanding of both the immediate and long-term effects of your injuries.

Facing these challenges head-on with the support of a knowledgeable Austin dog bite attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your case, including the amount of compensation you receive. Loewy Law Firm can provide the expertise and resources needed to strengthen your case, advocating for your rights and fighting for the compensation you deserve.

The Role of Evidence in Your Dog Bite Case

In dog bite cases, evidence plays a key role in establishing the facts of the incident, proving liability, and securing fair compensation for the victim. The following are key types of evidence for establishing liability and illustrating the full scope of the victim’s injuries and losses.

Medical Records

Medical documentation is fundamental in demonstrating the extent and severity of your injuries. Medical records provide a detailed account of your injuries, treatments received, and any ongoing or future medical care you may require. They help in quantifying medical expenses and substantiating claims for compensation.

Photographs of Injuries

Photos taken immediately after the incident and throughout the healing process serve as visual proof of the injuries sustained. They can be powerful evidence in showing the severity of the bite, the progression of your recovery, and any permanent scarring or disfigurement.

Witness Statements

Statements from individuals who witnessed the dog bite incident can support your account of the events and help establish liability. Witnesses can corroborate details about the dog’s behavior, the circumstances of the attack, and the actions of the dog owner.

Dog Owner’s History

Evidence of the dog’s previous aggressive behavior or prior incidents can be crucial. This may include reports to animal control, previous complaints, or warnings issued to the dog owner. Such evidence can help prove the owner’s knowledge of the dog’s propensity to bite.

Expert Testimony

In some cases, expert witnesses, such as animal behaviorists or medical professionals, may provide testimony on the nature of the attack, the likely behavior of the dog, or the extent of your injuries. Their insights can lend credibility to your claims and help explain complex issues to the court.

Police or Animal Control Reports

If the dog bite was reported to the police or animal control, these official reports could provide valuable information about the incident. They may contain details of the attack, the response of the dog owner, and any actions taken by authorities.

Documentation of Losses

Beyond medical expenses, evidence of other losses, such as lost wages, diminished earning capacity, and personal accounts of pain and suffering, are essential. Documentation and personal diaries can help illustrate the broader impact of the dog bite on your life.

Gathering and presenting a comprehensive body of evidence is key to building a strong dog bite case. An experienced dog bite lawyer can assist in collecting the necessary evidence, ensuring it is presented effectively, and advocating on your behalf for the compensation you deserve.

Using Detailed Documentation in Your Dog Bite Case

Effective documentation and timely medical treatment can strengthen your dog bite case. Here are some tips:

1. Immediate Medical Attention: Seek medical care right after the bite to document your injuries accurately. This initial documentation is important for providing a baseline for your injuries.
2. Continuous Medical Records: Keep detailed records of all medical treatments, including follow-up visits, specialist consultations, and therapies. Save all medical reports, bills, and prescriptions to show the extent of your injuries and treatments.
3. Photographic Evidence: Take clear photos of your injuries immediately after the incident and during your recovery. These photos serve as visual evidence of the severity and impact of your injuries.
4. Recovery Journal: Maintain a journal documenting your recovery process, pain levels, and how the injuries affect your daily activities and emotional well-being. This can illustrate the non-economic impact of your injuries.
5. Organize Documentation: Systematically organize all your documentation, including medical records, financial documents, and personal notes. Keeping everything accessible and well-organized supports the efficiency and effectiveness of your case.

How Documentation Helps Your Dog Bite Case

1. Establishes the Facts: It provides a clear, undeniable record of the incident, the injuries sustained, and the aftermath. This helps to establish the basic facts of the case without relying solely on testimonies, which can be disputed.
2. Demonstrates the Severity of Injuries: Detailed medical records and photographs vividly illustrate the severity of the injuries. This is important for conveying the physical pain and suffering endured, which can influence the compensation awarded.
3. Links Injuries to the Incident: Proper documentation creates a direct link between the dog bite incident and the injuries sustained. This is important for proving that the injuries were a direct result of the dog bite and not pre-existing conditions or unrelated events.
4. Supports Claims for Compensation: Itemized medical bills, receipts, and records of lost wages provide concrete evidence of the financial impact of the dog bite. This documentation is needed for substantiating claims for economic damages.
5. Quantifies Non-Economic Damages: Journals or diaries detailing the victim’s pain levels, emotional distress, and how the injuries have affected their daily life help quantify non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, which are harder to measure.
6. Counters Comparative Negligence Arguments: In cases where the dog owner’s defense might argue comparative negligence (claiming the victim provoked the dog or was partly at fault), detailed documentation can help refute these claims and clarify the circumstances of the incident.
7. Facilitates Negotiations with Insurance Companies: Comprehensive documentation provides a strong foundation for negotiations with insurance companies, making it harder for them to minimize the severity of the claim or offer inadequate settlements.
8. Prepares the Case for Trial: If the case goes to trial, having a well-documented body of evidence can be persuasive in court, helping to present a compelling argument to the judge or jury.

Thorough documentation directly strengthens your dog bite case, increasing your chances of securing fair compensation.

How a Dog Bite Attorney Can Help

Dog bite attorneys understand the laws that protect dog bite victims and their families. They know how to navigate the legal system. After a dog bite injury, a lawyer can help you determine the strength of your case, gather evidence to support your claim, file a lawsuit if necessary, negotiate settlements, and represent you in court. An experienced dog bite attorney can also help you seek the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

Speak With Loewy Law Firm’s Dog Bite Lawyer in Austin

If you suffered an injury from a dog bite in Austin, seek the help of an experienced dog bite injury lawyer. At the Loewy Law Firm, our experienced personal injury lawyers have extensive experience representing clients attacked by dogs. We understand the complications of dog bite claims and have the knowledge and resources to help you pursue the compensation you need. Contact Loewy Law Firm today for a free legal consultation with an experienced Austin dog bite attorney.