Fort Bend County Dog Bites Attorney

Helping Dog Bite Victims in Texas Hold Negligent Dog Owners Accountable

If you've been bitten by someone else's dog in Texas, you may be wondering if you can sue the owner. The answer depends on several factors, including whether the dog had a history of aggression and whether the owner was aware of that history. 

If you're considering filing a personal injury lawsuit after a dog bite, it's important to speak with an experienced dog bite attorney who can help you understand your legal options. At The Sims Law Firm, PLLC, our experienced dog bites attorney Brandon Sims has been fighting for injury victims and their families in Fort Bend County for years. 

Attorney Sims always puts his clients and their wellbeing first.  Just as importantly, he understands what it takes to guide injury victims through the process of holding those responsible for their pain and suffering accountable, because he has a long history of helping clients overcome legal obstacles to secure justice and the most favorable outcome possible for their situation. 

For more information about The Sims Law Firm, PLLC, and how we’ve helped past clients, read our clients’ testimonials.

To discuss your situation with our experienced dog bites lawyer in Fort Bend County, call us at (713) 766-1445 or reach out to us online today. We’re available to help our clients 24/7.

What Should I Do if I’m Bitten by a Dog in Texas?

Being bitten by a dog can be a traumatic and frightening experience. Seeking medical attention should be your number one priority after being bitten. Fort Bend County Health & Human Services, or your primary health care provider, can assess the potential risk within 24 to 48 hours of the bite. 

With prompt treatment, any potential issues can be minimized. Sometimes rabies vaccinations are necessary depending on the circumstances, and it is important that bites get documented for legal and health records. If you have been bitten by a dog in Fort Bend County, Texas, taking care of your health needs should be your top priority.

If I’m Bitten by a Dog in Texas, Can I Sue the Owner?

If you have been the victim of a dog bite and suffered injuries as a result, after seeking medical treatment for your injuries, you may want to consider filing a personal injury claim against the dog's owner.

Many states have a civil statute regarding a dog owner’s civil liability for injuries and damages caused by their pet. However, Texas doesn’t. Instead, Texas has the “one bite rule.” The “one bite rule” allows dog owners in Texas to escape liability the first time their pet bites or otherwise harms someone. 

Obviously, this depends on the circumstances of the incident, including who was bitten, why it happened, and the severity of the injuries or damage. Assuming the dog owner avoids facing punishment the first time their dog bites someone, from then on, they are on notice that their dog has a tendency to bite and if it happens again, they will likely be held liable for any injuries or damage that their dog inflicts on a victim or victims.

Basically, the “one bite rule” means you must prove that the dog owner was aware of, or should have been aware of, the danger posed by their pet. To do this, you must provide adequate evidence to suggest the animal had a known propensity for viciousness and did not merely retaliate in an unfamiliar situation. 

Possible evidence could include:

• Veterinary reports
• Previous incidents involving other victims
• Photographs or videos of prior incidents
• Eyewitness testimony that supports your claim

Even if the dog had no prior record, perhaps it acted in a manner that any reasonable individual would consider dangerous, and therefore, the owner should have known such danger existed. Additionally, it is important to note that you must make your claim within a certain time frame determined by state laws. 

In Texas, dog bite victims generally must file an injury claim within two years of the incident. Another important aspect of proving your case involves establishing that an owner failed to take reasonable steps to prevent their dog from harming others. 

The standard for determining what is reasonable may vary depending on the breed, size, and history of the dog in question. In addition, general dog-ownership responsibilities may also be taken into consideration when evaluating a particular situation, such as whether the owner was being attentive and had adequate control measures in place.

If I’m the Victim of a Dog Bite Injury in Texas, What Do I Need to Prove to Recover Compensation?

You may be able to recover compensation if you can successfully prove three elements. First, you must show that the dog’s owner was negligent. This means that they were not properly caring for their dog and as a result, you were hurt. 

Second, you must prove you suffered some type of injury or damages. This could be physical injuries, emotional harm, or financial damages. Finally, you must show that the dog owner’s negligence caused your injuries or the damages you suffered.

If you can prove all three of these elements, you may be able to receive compensation for your hospital bills, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, financial losses, and more.

For more information about dog bite claims in Texas, or to speak with our experienced dog bites attorney in Fort Bend County about your situation, give us a call at (713) 766-1445 or contact us online today.