Who’s Liable for a Dog Bite?
If you or a loved one was attacked by a dog, you may have grounds for a lawsuit. But who’s responsible for the behavior of the dog? You may be unsure who owned the dog, and state law can impact your options for suing.
Luckily, you have options to seek compensation for the dog bite. If you’re hurt and suffering because of your injuries, here’s what you need to know about Texas dog bite laws and who’s at fault for your suffering.
Establishing Liability for a Dog Bite
When determining who’s at fault for a dog bite, you may have to take certain steps to establish liability, or to prove who’s responsible for the pain and suffering you experienced. To establish liability, the plaintiff must prove the following:
- The dog owner knew his canine was aggressive but did not take the necessary measures to restrain it.
- The dog had previously bitten somebody else.
- The dog owner failed to use reasonable care when controlling his dog, thereby making him a negligent owner.
If you’re unsure how to prove these your lawyer can help. An attorney can gather evidence and speak with expert witnesses to help you find the answers you need for your case.
Texas Dog Bite Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitations refers to the deadline set by the state for filing a civil lawsuit. In Texas, dog bites fall under the personal injury law of tort cases. Under the Texas personal injury statutes, dog bite cases must be filed in court within two years after the incident.
It is important to note that Texas has a one-bite policy. This one-bite policy is based on the idea that the first dog bite is not the owner’s responsibility. However, if the dog bites another person, the owner will be liable.
How Can a Dog Bite Lawyer Help Me?
If someone’s dog has bitten you or your child, it is within your rights to file a dog bite lawsuit. A dog bite lawsuit will help you get compensation for the pain and suffering and other emotional distress you have experienced. It will also help you cover the medical bills.
If you’re hurt by a dog, a lawyer can be one of your best resources for state laws, gathering evidence and expert witnesses, and getting in contact with the right authorities or other resources. Your lawyer can help you when speaking with insurance companies, for example, so you don’t say anything that could hurt your case. We’re here to help your claim succeed.
Get In Touch With a Personal Injury Lawyer in Texas
When you or a loved one has been hurt by a dog, you may feel traumatized and lost in the wake of the attack. Luckily, you don’t have to fight for your recovery alone. Your lawyer is here to help you make the right steps forward by identifying the liable party and filing the right paperwork.
If you face a dog bite lawsuit or you want to file one, get in touch with Gibbs & Crivelli, Slingshot Law for a free consultation. We can be reached by calling 800-488-7840. You can also get in touch with us through our online contact form below.
