Trusted Carrollton Dog Attack Attorneys Ready to Assist
Dog attacks are, unfortunately, a common occurrence and can often be traced back to irresponsible pet ownership. When dogs are neglected or mistreated, they may become a danger to others, resulting in serious injuries. Many of us have felt a twinge of anxiety while walking past a dog that seems aggressive or unpredictable. But what happens when that unease turns into an actual dog attack? If you or someone you care about has been bitten, it’s essential to act quickly. Consulting a skilled Carrollton dog attack attorney can help you understand your legal options and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Texas Dog Bite Law: What You Need to Know
Texas has unique dog bite laws compared to other states. Instead of a dedicated statute, Texas relies on the “one-bite rule.” This means a dog owner is generally held responsible for an attack only if they knew or had reason to know that their dog had aggressive tendencies. For instance, if the dog had bitten someone before or displayed threatening behavior, the owner could be held liable. However, even if the dog has no history of biting, owners can still face legal action under general negligence rules. A Carrollton dog attack lawyer can walk you through the nuances of Texas dog bite laws and how they apply to your case.
Common Dog Bite Claims
When it comes to dog bites, claims typically revolve around the concept of negligence or liability. Depending on the circumstances, your case may fall under one of several legal theories.
Negligence
Most dog bite cases involve negligence. This occurs when the owner fails to control their dog or protect others from potential harm. Examples include allowing a dog to run loose without supervision or failing to leash the dog in public spaces. Proving negligence can be straightforward with the help of a Carrollton dog attack lawyer who knows what evidence to look for.
One-Bite Rule
If the dog has a history of aggressive behavior, Texas law allows victims to hold the owner accountable under the “one-bite rule.” You would need to show that the owner knew about the dog’s violent tendencies and didn’t take appropriate precautions.
Violation of Local Laws
In Carrollton, there are local ordinances, such as leash laws or rules specific to certain dog breeds, that dog owners must follow. If an owner breaks one of these rules and their violation leads to a dog bite, it strengthens your claim for compensation. A knowledgeable Carrollton dog attack attorney can help you determine if a local law was violated in your case.
Intentional Acts
In some cases, a dog owner may intentionally use their dog to harm someone. If a dog is deliberately unleashed to attack another person, the owner can be held responsible for both civil and criminal liabilities.
Types of Dog Bite Injuries and Their Impact
Dog bites can lead to a range of injuries, some of which are quite severe. Common injuries include::
- Puncture wounds: Deep wounds that can easily become infected if not treated promptly.
- Lacerations and scarring: Bites often leave behind cuts that may require stitches and result in permanent scars.
- Fractures—Strong bites can break bones, especially in the hands or arms when trying to fend off an attack.
- Emotional trauma: Psychological effects, such as PTSD or anxiety around dogs, are common after a serious attack.
Immediate medical attention is crucial to prevent infections and properly document your injuries. This medical documentation can play a key role in supporting your dog bite claim.
What to Do After a Dog Bite in Carrollton
Taking the right steps after a dog bite can make a significant difference in both your recovery and the success of your legal claim. Here’s what you should do:
- Seek medical care immediately: Your health should be your top priority. Even minor-looking bites can lead to serious infections. Get treatment as soon as possible, and make sure all your injuries are well-documented.
- Report the bite: File a report with Carrollton animal control or law enforcement. This ensures that the incident is officially recorded, which can be crucial in building your case.
- Collect evidence: If possible, take pictures of your injuries, the scene of the attack, and anything else that might be relevant, such as a broken leash or a hole in the dog owner’s fence. Gather contact information for any witnesses.
- Speak to an attorney: Before talking to the dog owner’s insurance company, consult with a Carrollton dog attack lawyer. An experienced attorney can help protect your rights and advise you on the best way to proceed.
- Keep detailed records: Maintain all documents related to your medical treatments, expenses, and communications with the authorities or the dog owner’s insurance company. These records can be vital in supporting your claim.
Compensation Available for Dog Bite Victims
The types of compensation you may be entitled to after a dog bite vary depending on the severity of the injuries and the circumstances surrounding the attack. Common forms of compensation include:
- Medical expenses: Covering both immediate medical treatment and future care that may be needed.
- Lost wages: Reimbursement for time missed from work, as well as compensation for any long-term impact on your earning ability.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for both physical and emotional trauma, including therapy or counseling services.
- Punitive damages: In cases of extreme negligence or intentional harm, punitive damages may be awarded to discourage similar behavior.
Why You Need a Carrollton Dog Attack Attorney
A Carrollton dog attack lawyer will begin working on your case right away, gathering evidence, speaking with witnesses, and dealing with insurance companies on your behalf. If you’ve been the victim of a dog attack, don’t delay—reach out to Hartley Law Firm today for a free consultation with one of our experienced Carrollton dog attack attorneys. We are committed to helping you recover and ensuring that negligent dog owners are held accountable.
If a dog attacked you or a loved one, give our Carrollton dog attack lawyers a call today at (469) 589-5363 or submit a contact form to schedule a free in-person consultation.
