Dog Bite

By the Numbers

Dog-bite deaths in the United States more than doubled between 2018 and 2021, reaching 81 deaths in 2021. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 2023)

Common Causes

• Dogs allowed to run loose or escape their yard

• Owners who ignore earlier bites or aggressive behavior

• Broken fences, gates, and leashes

• Violations of city leash and dangerous-dog rules

• Landlords or businesses that allow a known dangerous dog on the property

Protecting Your Rights

• Get medical care right away. Dog bites can become infected quickly.

• Report the bite to animal control or the police.

• Get the owner's name, address, and insurance information.

• Take photos of your injuries as they heal and of the place the attack happened.

• Write down the names of witnesses.

• Check for video from neighbors' Ring doorbells or other security cameras, and ask them to save it. Many systems record over video within days.

Holding Careless Owners Accountable

In Texas, an owner may be responsible if they knew the dog was dangerous or if they were careless in controlling it, such as by letting it run loose against a leash law. We gather animal control records, prior complaints, witness accounts, and medical documentation to show what the owner knew and failed to do. Many claims are paid through homeowner's or renter's insurance.

What Compensation Can Cover

Depending on the facts, a claim may include:

• Past and future medical expenses

• Lost wages and lost earning capacity

• Physical pain and mental anguish

• Physical impairment and disfigurement

• Counseling for fear and trauma after an attack

Common Questions

Do I have to prove the dog bit someone before?

Not always. A prior bite or known aggressive behavior helps, but an owner can also be responsible for failing to use reasonable care to control the dog.

How long do I have to file a claim?

In Texas, most personal injury lawsuits must be filed within two years of the injury, and some claims have shorter deadlines. Talk with a lawyer as soon as you can so the evidence and your deadlines are protected.

What if the dog belongs to a friend or family member?

Many people worry about this. Dog bite claims are often paid by the owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance, not by the owner personally. We can help you understand the options before you decide.

Can the property owner or landlord be held responsible?

Yes, depending on the facts. A homeowner or the owner of a rental property can also be held responsible if they failed to maintain the fence, gate, or other parts of the property meant to keep dogs in. Repair requests, lease agreements, photos of the fence, and statements from neighbors can show who was responsible for the property and what they knew.

Does it cost anything to talk with you?

No. The consultation is free, and there is no obligation.