The aftermath of a dog bite is usually a scary experience for all involved. Victims of a dog attack can suffer traumatic and painful injuries, and sometimes are forced to undergo costly medical treatment. A dog’s owner can face trouble in a dog bite case depending on the city or county in which the incident took place. An attorney experienced in dog bite injuries can be an invaluable resource in finding out what your rights are and what you need to do to obtain compensation for your injuries.
If you are injured by a dog, the dog’s owner can face criminal or civil penalties if
- The dog was categorized as dangerous and made an unprovoked attack, which led to serious injury or death.
- The owner was criminally negligent in controlling the dog and it made an unprovoked attack, which led to serious injury or death.
Penalties can range anywhere from 2-20 years in prison and can include fines of up to $10,000.Title 10, Chapter 822 of the Texas Health and Safety Code lists information about dangerous dog laws in Texas.
However, many cities, municipalities and counties in Texas have their own legislation concerning dogs and the proper use of leashes. Dog bites in Texas fall under the category of a personal injury, which means victims have a two-year time limit from the day of attack to file a case in the Texas court system.
What Is A Dangerous Dog?
Texas law says a dog is considered dangerous if the owner knows it has attacked someone, which can be substantiated if the victim is able to prove the dog’s owner was aware of a previous attack. Generally, victims turn to city or county bite reports (if available) or the testimony of neighbors as proof.
Dogs are also considered dangerous under Texas law if the owner has received a court notice notifying the dog as dangerous, or if animal control says the dog is dangerous.
What Happens Next?
Several steps must be taken by the dog’s owner if it is deemed as dangerous. Within 30 days of notification, they must register the dog with animal control, be able to demonstrate the possession of adequate insurance to remit any damages from an attack, and otherwise comply with all other requirements.
In addition, the owner must either leash the dog or enclose it in a secure area when it is around people.
What To Do If A Dog Bites You
The first thing you should do if you sustain injuries from a dog bite is to identify the owner and seek immediate medical attention. Identifying the owner is important because they should (1) be able to tell you if the dog has any communicable diseases it may pass on to you and (2) be held liable for their dog’s behavior.
The experienced Texas personal injury attorneys at Ben Bronston & Associates have assisted numerous clients injured by dogs and can assist you in fighting for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at 361.LAWYERS (361-529-9377) for a consultation.
