A dog can cause serious damage when they attack somebody, especially if a child is the victim. If you were injured by a dog bite, you may be able to seek out compensation. It’s important to know about state laws on the matter though, so we recommend talking to a Bexar County, Texas personal injury lawyer.
What Types of Injuries Can a Dog Bite Cause?
A dog bite can cause some serious physical damage and psychological trauma. Most dog attack victims end up with injuries like:
- Nerve damage
- Deep cuts and lacerations
- Fractured bones
- Damage to sensitive body parts, like their eyes
- Permanent scars
- Psychological issues, like PTSD
Many of these injuries can cost a lot of money to treat. Some will require continued treatment and care for a long time to come. If someone else was negligent and allowed their dog to harm you or your loved one, then they should be the one footing the bill for treatment.
How Can You Prove Negligence in a Dog Bite Case?
In a dog bite case, you need to show that the owner was actually negligent. If someone was teasing a dog or trespassing on someone’s property when they got attacked, they are unlikely to receive compensation. If the dog bite occurred in a public place and the owner knew that this was a potential outcome, then there may be a case to pursue.
If an owner knows that a fence is broken or that their dog can jump over it to roam freely, they could be seen as negligent when a dog bite or attack occurs. They could even be liable if, let’s say, their big dog runs into a toddler, knocking them to the ground and causing injuries. The owner could also be seen as negligent if they purposely let their dog off leash and they harm someone.
What is a “One Bite” Rule?
Another important factor for proving negligence is the “one bite” rule. Texas is one of many states to follow this rule. It essentially says that if a dog has already bitten someone in the past, the owner should be aware that their pet is potentially dangerous and that they need to act accordingly. If they know about their pet’s aggressive tendencies and do nothing to protect others from them, they can be sued for damages.
What Kinds of Damages Can You Win in a Dog Bite Case?
Your compensation can help you cover a variety of expenses stemming from your dog bite. It can make up for things like:
- Medical expenses, including psychological treatment
- Property damages, like if your phone was broken during the attack
- Lost wages, if you had to miss work
If your injuries might have a permanent effect on your ability to work or enjoy hobbies you once loved, this can also be factored in when compensation is calculated.
Schedule a Free Consultation
If you want to learn more about your legal options, contact the Sahadi Legal Group. Our initial case consultation is free, so take advantage of this offer and learn more about the potential value of your case.
