Texas dog bite laws follow a version of the “one-bite rule” adopted by several other states. Under this rule, a dog owner may bear strict liability for injuries their dog inflicts by biting another person if the owner knows about their dog’s aggressive or vicious tendencies. However, Texas law also allows dog bite injury victims to impose liability on dog owners whose negligence facilitates a dog bite or attack. Both dog owners and those injured by them should understand how Texas dog bite laws affect legal and financial liability for dog attack-related injuries, as these laws create burdens of… Read More
Although many dog owners consider their pets loyal companions or family members, even the gentlest and most affectionate dog can suddenly lash out, becoming aggressive without any warning or provocation. Unfortunately, innocent people can become victims of dog attacks. Dog trainers, veterinarians, and animal behavioral experts recognize six levels of dog bites, first categorized by Dr. Ian Dunbar. The severity of a dog attack can have implications for the injuries and the victim’s legal rights to financial recovery. The severity of an attack may also determine a dog owner’s liability for future attacks or, in rare cases, lead to… Read More
A dog attack is scary and can lead to severe or debilitating injuries. Long-term complications can arise despite adequate medical care. Some victims deal with chronic pain or psychological trauma. Others end up with disfiguring wounds and permanent scars. Knowing how to handle an attack and who to hold liable can be confusing. You must follow a specific process to recover compensation for your medical bills and other expenses. Continue reading to learn how to report your dog bite injury, the steps you must take after an attack, and the process for filing an insurance claim or lawsuit. How to… Read More
Your dogs may have never met a stranger, but that doesn’t mean that all dogs welcome pats on the head from people they don’t know. As you are out walking through the many green spaces in Austin this summer, it’s important to remember that you will be running into dog owners just like yourself. While some may have canine companions that welcome your touch, others will have pets that would rather not be bothered. Before you reach out a hand to gently stroke a dog you don’t know, it’s important to follow a few safety tips. 1. Always Ask the… Read More
When most people think of being bitten by an animal, dogs are the first thing that pops into their mind. It makes sense. We hear about dog attacks on the news and read about them in the paper. What most people don’t consider is being bitten by a cat. It is very rare for someone to be walking down the street and be bitten by a feral or stray cat. These animals tend to flee at the sight of humans. What is more common is being bitten by your own cat or an acquaintance’s pet. When this happens,… Read More
Being bitten by a dog is stressful and frightening. Many people do not know what to do following a dog bite. Yes, you know that you need to get medical care, but what else? Here is a brief rundown of the steps that should be taken immediately following a dog bite. Information One of the first things to do is to gather information. You want the names and addresses of any witnesses to the attack, the name of the dog owner, the address where the dog lives and the name of the person who had control… Read More
