Dog Bite Lawyer in El Paso
Helping Dog Attack Victims Across Texas
Millions of people own dogs in the United States. For the most part, canines make great family pets that quickly become a part of the family. However, for one reason or another, a dog can be provoked to attack, causing severe physical and mental harm to its victim. That is why if a dog bite has injured you or a loved one, you can receive compensation with the help of an experienced local attorney.
At K.E. Bradley Law, we have represented several animal bites and their families throughout El Paso and the surrounding communities. Our experienced dog bite lawyer relies upon years of our firm’s experience with similar cases such as yours and Texas’ dog bite law to get the satisfaction you need and prevent future attacks.
To learn more, schedule a free consultation with our El Paso dog bite lawyer online or at (832) 440-0585 | (915) 222-8082 today!
Texas Dog Bite Law
Texas does not have a civil statute regarding dog bite liability. Instead, the state follows the “one-bite rule.” The one-bite rule is a common principle that says that if the dog’s owner knew or reasonably should have known that the dog had aggressive tendencies, then they may be held liable if their dog attacks.
The most frequently cited example from our dog bite lawyer in El Paso is when a dog has previously bitten someone. The owner will then have been notified that the dog has aggressive behavior and could be held legally responsible for any attacks and injuries that their dog causes in the future.
The state also allows injured parties in dog bite cases to bring a cause of action if the owner failed to use reasonable care to prevent the attack or to control the dog.
Liability in a Dog Bite Case
A dog owner may be held criminally and civilly liable for failing to prevent a dog bite or attack. However, proving liability in a civil case can be challenging without the help of a dog bite lawyer. You must show that the owner knew that their dog had aggressive behavior or that the owner failed to use reasonable care to prevent the attack.
Our dog bite attorney in El Paso can help you understand your rights and responsibilities after the attack. For instance, you need to seek medical attention immediately. Failing to see a doctor could be seen as a failure to mitigate damages if your injuries worsen over time. It can not only make your physical recovery more difficult, but it may also impact the amount of compensation you receive.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bite injuries can range in severity. In some cases, they may be relatively minor and can be treated at home after being cleaned by a medical professional. In others, however, they can be extensive, even life-threatening, due to a dog’s mouth being full of bacteria; any time their teeth break your skin, you could be at risk for infection. Tragically, children are the most likely dog bite victims to suffer severe harm.
The most frequent types of dog bite injuries include:
- Facial lacerations
- Broken bones
- Dislocations
- Sprains and strains
- Torn tendons and ligaments
- Infection
- Wrongful death
Dog bite cases fall under the broad umbrella of personal injury. If you are injured in an animal attack, you must speak with our personal injury attorney today.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
The first thing you need to do after a dog bite is to seek medical attention. If it is an emergency, you should call 9-1-1 so an ambulance can be dispatched to your location. Even if you do not think you are severely injured, you still need to go to the emergency room after any animal attack to check if the bacteria from the dog’s bite can be severe.
The emergency room physician will be able to determine the extent of the harm and discuss a comprehensive treatment plan. They will likely clean the wound and may prescribe a round of antibiotics to prevent infection. Failing to seek medical treatment could cause severe complications and worsen your injuries.
Consider consulting our El Paso dog bite lawyer at K.E. Bradley. Our attorney can help you understand dog bite law in Texas and determine whether you have a valid claim for damages. Without the help of an attorney, you may not be able to get the compensation you deserve.
Dog Bite Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a claim?
Texas law allows you two years to file a claim based on personal injury. This means you have up to two years from the date of the attack to file a lawsuit. Failure to file a claim within this statute of limitations could result in a bar to your recovery.
What if I was partially to blame for the attack?
Even if you were partially to blame for the attack, you might still be entitled to damages. Discussing your case with a dog bite lawyer as early as possible is important to determine the best course of action.
Should I accept a settlement after a dog bite?
One of the most common questions people have after a dog bite is whether they should accept a settlement offer from the insurance company or a liable party. The truth is that the vast majority of personal injury claims are settled prior to going to trial; however, you should never accept a settlement without first speaking to a lawyer. You could end up settling your case for less than it is worth.
Call Today to Schedule a FREE Consultation
Were you or your loved one injured by a dog bite or animal attack in El Paso? Our dog bite lawyer and firm are highly experienced and will provide you with the superior representation you need to get the results you deserve. We will not rest until you get the best possible outcome in your case.
Contact our office at (832) 440-0585 | (915) 222-8082 to schedule a no-obligation consultation with a dog bite lawyer in El Paso.
