Dogs are often referred to as “man’s best friend” although a darker side lurks within many dogs across the state. Dog attacks are unfortunately more common than the media reports reflect and can lead to extensive injuries for the victims. While animal rights activists often maintain that dogs are innocent in the majority of dog attacks, the resulting injuries speak to a different truth. If you or a loved one have been the victim of a dog bite attack, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your injuries from the dog owner.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 885,000 dog bites occurred in 2014 which were serious enough to warrant medical attention.

Texas does not have a specific dog bite statute, and instead adheres to a court-based rule – the strict “one bite” rule. Under this rule, a victim of a dog bite attack can recover from the dog owner if the dog had previously bit another person and the owner was aware of this prior bite or propensity for violence. However, if the dog bite attack was the dog’s first time to attack another person, the victim will be unable to use the “one bite” rule in their claim. In this situation, a victim may look to a theory of negligence or other types of recovery that depend on the facts of the case.

Dog bites can become quite serious depending on the circumstances of the case. Small children are unfortunately often at risk of severe dog attacks, many of which could not only leave lasting physical damage but psychological as well. In taking into account a settlement package stemming from dog bite injuries, a claim may include the following:

• Medical expenses
• Rehabilitation expenses
• Lost wages
• Future earnings
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of consortium

While children will not be able to take advantage of “lost earnings,” a claim may include the possible loss of “future earnings” depending on the extent of damage during the dog bite attack. If the child has lost a limb or receives a debilitating injury, a claim may include the impact on the child’s financial future, as well as ongoing medical care.

An experienced personal injury attorney will be able to assist you in calculating the total amount of damages you are eligible to receive as a result of the dog attack.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a dog bite attack, do not hesitate to contact the Malley Law Firm. Tony Malley has years of experience in assisting clients with their dog bite claims and will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Dog owners should follow the Texas and local animal laws, including taking extreme precautions when they are aware of a violent streak in their pet. As the victim of a dog bite attack, you should not be forced to cover the medical care for an injury that another person’s animal caused you. Contact our Beaumont or Houston offices today for your initial free consultation.