Being bitten by a dog can be a traumatic experience, and the aftermath, especially if you are inexperienced with the legal system, can be equally distressing. You may believe that you can manage the situation on your own but dealing with insurance companies and the opposing party can be overwhelming. That’s why you need a professional on your side. For help after a dog attack, contact The Hill Law Firm to schedule a free consultation with our San Marcos dog bite lawyer.
San Marcos Dog Bite Resources
To immediately access the resources at any point on this page, click the corresponding links below.
Why Hire The Hill Law Firm?
Why You Need a Lawyer After a Dog Bite
Texas Dog Bite Laws
Recoverable Compensation in Texas Dog Bite Claims
Contact An Attorney Today
Why Hire The Hill Law Firm After a Dog Bite?
When it comes to choosing a lawyer, experience is critical. Here’s why The Hill Law Firm is the right choice for your dog bite claim in San Marcos, Texas:
- We have recovered millions of dollars on behalf of our clients. Having our experienced lawyers on your side during this trying time will ensure that you’re appropriately compensated for your injuries.
- At The Hill Law Firm, we believe that every client is unique and treat them as such. Our firm is committed to offering tailored and attentive services to every client.
- We take all cases on a contingency fee basis – you only pay us if you get paid. This means there is virtually no risk for you if we take your case. Because our costs are based on the amount of money we win for you, you can feel confident that we will fight for the largest settlement or verdict possible.
- Our San Marcos personal injury lawyer will walk you through every stage of the legal procedure using our years of knowledge.
Why Do You Need a Lawyer After a Dog Bite?
Here’s how a lawyer can help you after a dog bite:
- They understand dog bite laws. A lawyer can explain these laws and help you navigate the legal process, ensuring all documents are filed correctly and on time.
- A lawyer can help determine who is liable for your injuries.
- A lawyer can help you identify all the damages you are entitled to and ensure you receive fair compensation.
- Dealing with insurance companies can be tricky, but a lawyer can help you navigate this process. Insurance companies might provide a settlement lower than the amount you deserve, or they might deny your claim altogether. A lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you are not taken advantage of.
- While many cases can be resolved through negotiation, some may have to go to court. A lawyer can represent you in court and present your case to a judge or jury.
Texas Dog Bite Laws
Texas dog bite laws are often referred to as the “one bite rule.” Specifically, the statute states:
“A person commits an offense if the person is the owner of a dog and the person: …
(2) knows the dog is a dangerous dog by learning in a manner described by Section 822.042(g) that the person is the owner of a dangerous dog, and the dangerous dog makes an unprovoked attack on another person that occurs at a location other than a secure enclosure in which the dog is restrained in accordance with Subchapter D and that causes serious bodily injury, as defined by Section 822.001, or death to the other person.”
A dangerous dog is defined as:
“…a dog that:
- makes an unprovoked attack on a person that causes bodily injury and occurs in a place other than an enclosure in which the dog was being kept and that was reasonably certain to prevent the dog from leaving the enclosure on its own; or
- commits unprovoked acts in a place other than an enclosure in which the dog was being kept and that was reasonably certain to prevent the dog from leaving the enclosure on its own and those acts cause a person to reasonably believe that the dog will attack and cause bodily injury to that person.”
Secure means:
“…to take steps that a reasonable person would take to ensure a dog remains on the owner’s property, including confining the dog in an enclosure that is capable of preventing the escape or release of the dog.”
Serious bodily injury is defined as an injury that is:
“…characterized by severe bite wounds or severe ripping and tearing of muscle that would cause a reasonably prudent person to seek treatment from a medical professional and would require hospitalization without regard to whether the person actually sought medical treatment.”
What Compensation is Recoverable in Texas Dog Bite Claims?
If a dog has bitten you in Texas, you may be entitled to compensation. The most common types of compensation include the following:
- Medical Expenses: If a dog has bitten you, the first thing to do is seek medical care. Fortunately, these expenses can be recovered in Texas. This includes the cost of any hospital stays, surgeries, medication, and therapy required to treat your injuries.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries from a dog bite prevent you from working, you may be able to recover lost wages. This includes the wages lost during your recovery period and any potential wages lost in the future due to permanent disability.
- Pain and Suffering: If you’ve endured physical or emotional pain due to the dog bite, you may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering. This includes ongoing physical pain, anxiety, depression, and loss of enjoyment of life. This could also include expenses for therapy and other types of mental health treatment.
- Disfigurement: In Texas, disfigurement is separate from pain and suffering. If you have been disfigured due to a dog bite, you may be entitled to compensation for the impact that disfigurement has on your quality of life.
Contact The Hill Law Firm For Help
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Texas, you may be entitled to financial compensation, so it’s essential to seek legal advice. For help, contact us to schedule a free consultation.