What to Expect in a Houston Dog Bite Lawsuit

If you or someone you know has been the victim of a dog bite in Houston, Texas, you aren't alone. In fact, in 2022, Houston had the highest number of dog attacks reported by the United States Postal Service. Of course, mail carriers aren't the only group of people being bitten by dogs; children and the elderly are most likely to be bitten, and unfortunately, they also see the most severe injuries.

No matter who the victim is, navigating the legal process in dog bite cases can be stressful and complex. For that reason, following the proper steps after a dog bite and consulting a Houston personal injury attorney for dog attacks is essential for getting the justice and compensation you deserve.

Costs associated with dog bite injuries are often daunting. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the "Average cost for dog bite insurance claims in 2022 was $64,555, an increase of 32% from 2021." To ensure you have the best chance of being compensated fairly in your Houston dog bite lawsuit, take the following steps:

1. Promptly seek medical attention to assess and treat your injuries.
2. Obtain contact information from eyewitnesses and the dog's owner or caretaker to request proof of a rabies vaccine and for filing a report.
3. Report the dog bite to local authorities and animal control.
4. Take photos of the injuries before care for evidence of the degree of severity.
5. Save records of all treatment and costs related to the injury. It's also helpful to keep consistent notes on the incident, treatment, and its effects on the quality of your life.
6. Contact a personal injury lawyer.

Texas is one of 16 states that follows the "one-bite rule" to determine the owner's liability in the dog attack injury. When this law was more widespread throughout the US, the victim had to prove the dog had bitten someone before for the owner to be liable. These days, the owner can still be found negligent even if the dog hasn't bitten anyone previously.

To establish a dog owner's negligence in a dog bite case, proof is needed to show that the owner failed to exercise reasonable care in preventing the dog from causing harm. This could include situations where the owner knew the dog had aggressive tendencies, failed to restrain the dog properly, or allowed it to roam unleashed in a public area. In a state with the one-bite rule, it can be more difficult for a victim to prove owner liability and receive compensation, so using a dog bite injury lawyer is especially beneficial.

The legal process of dog bite lawsuits can be intimidating, but you don't have to navigate it alone. Our team of dog bite injury attorneys at Carabin Shaw is here to support you every step of the way. With a deep understanding of the steps in a Houston dog bite lawsuit and the local legal landscape, we are well-equipped to handle your case. But don't just take our word for it; read Carabin Shaw's client reviews to see how we've helped others in similar situations.

For guidance on your dog bite lawsuit and a free case review, call us toll-free at 800-862-1260. Our English and Spanish-speaking staff are available to assist you 24/7. We offer our services on a contingency-fee basis, which means clients only pay if there's a favorable result in the case.

In Houston, Texas, a dog bite lawsuit can be a complex and emotionally draining experience, but with the right legal team, you can pursue justice and regain control of your life. We're committed to providing you with the support and legal representation you need during this challenging time.

For more information:

• USPS
• DSHS
• AVMA.org
• Houston Tx Info
• Rehome