Dog Bite Injury Attorney in Houston, Texas
Aggressive Legal Representation for Dog Bite Victims Across Texas
Dog bites can lead to serious physical injuries and emotional trauma, leaving victims with mounting medical bills and long-term recovery needs. In Texas, dog owners are responsible for ensuring their pets do not cause harm, and when they fail to do so, they can be held liable for the injuries caused.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog bite in Houston or anywhere in Texas, SVR Law Firm is here to fight for the compensation you deserve. Our experienced team understands the complexities of dog bite injury cases and will pursue every legal avenue to ensure you receive justice.
Why Hire a Dog Bite Injury Lawyer?
Dog bite injury cases can be complex, especially when it comes to determining liability and negotiating with insurance companies. Texas follows a “one bite rule” which means that an owner may be held strictly liable if their dog has previously shown aggressive tendencies, but negligence and premises liability laws can also play a role.
At SVR Law Firm, we will thoroughly investigate your case, gather the necessary evidence, and develop a strong legal strategy to hold the responsible party accountable.
Common Injuries from Dog Bites
Dog bites can cause a range of serious injuries, depending on the size and breed of the dog, and the circumstances surrounding the attack. Some common injuries include:
• Puncture wounds: Deep wounds caused by the dog’s teeth penetrating the skin, which can lead to infections.
• Lacerations and scarring: Cuts that may require stitches and result in permanent scars, especially on visible areas like the face.
• Nerve damage: Bites can cause damage to nerves, leading to loss of sensation or function in the affected area.
• Bone fractures: Particularly in children or smaller individuals, a dog bite can break or fracture bones.
• Infections: Bacterial infections like rabies, tetanus, and MRSA are serious concerns with dog bites.
• Emotional trauma: Many victims experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or fear around dogs after an attack.
Whether your injuries are physical, emotional, or both, SVR Law Firm will pursue full compensation for your damages.
Texas Laws on Dog Bite Liability
Texas dog bite laws allow victims to pursue compensation under two primary legal theories:
Premises Liability: If the dog bite occurred on someone else’s property (such as at a business or in a residential area), the property owner or occupier may be liable for failing to protect visitors from the dangerous dog.
Negligence: If a dog owner fails to take reasonable steps to prevent their dog from injuring someone (such as properly restraining or training the dog), they may be held liable for injuries caused by the bite.
Compensation for Dog Bite Victims
Dog bites can lead to significant financial burdens for victims, including medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation. At SVR Law Firm, we will pursue compensation for:
• Medical bills: Including emergency room visits, surgeries, medications, and ongoing treatments like physical therapy.
• Lost wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to your injuries and recovery.
• Pain and suffering: Non-economic damages for the emotional distress, trauma, and physical pain caused by the attack.
• Scarring and disfigurement: Permanent scars, especially on the face or other visible areas, can impact your quality of life and self-esteem.
• Rehabilitation costs: Including therapy for physical and emotional recovery.
In the tragic event that a dog attack results in death, surviving family members may also pursue wrongful death claimsto cover funeral expenses and loss of companionship.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite Incident
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, taking the right steps immediately can help protect your health and strengthen your legal case:
1. Seek medical attention immediately: Even minor bites can become infected, so it’s important to get prompt medical care.
2. Document the incident: Take photos of your injuries and the location of the attack. If possible, get the dog owner’s contact information.
3. Report the bite: File a report with local animal control or the police to ensure there is an official record of the attack.
4. Avoid speaking with the dog owner’s insurance company: Let your attorney handle all communications with insurers to prevent them from minimizing your claim.
5. Contact SVR Law Firm: The sooner you have legal representation, the better your chances of securing fair compensation.
By following these steps and contacting SVR Law Firm, we can begin building a strong case on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Dog Bite Injuries
Q: Can I still file a dog bite claim if I was on the dog owner’s property?
A: Yes, you may still have a claim even if the bite occurred on the dog owner’s property. Texas’s premises liability laws can hold property owners accountable if they knew or should have known about a dangerous dog on their property and failed to warn visitors or take proper precautions.
Q: How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Texas?
A: The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including dog bites, in Texas is two years from the date of the attack. It’s important to contact an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the legal timeframe.
Q: What if the dog that bit me doesn’t have a history of aggression?
A: Texas law allows dog bite victims to pursue claims even if the dog has no prior history of aggression, under certain circumstances. Our experienced attorneys at SVR Law Firm can help evaluate your case and determine the best path forward.
Q: What compensation can I receive for a dog bite injury?
A: The amount of compensation you may receive depends on the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional trauma. SVR Law Firm will fight to maximize your recovery and ensure you are fully compensated for your losses.
Why Choose SVR Law Firm for Your Dog Bite Case?
At SVR Law Firm, we have extensive experience handling dog bite injury cases in Houston and across Texas. We offer:
• Personalized attention: We understand how traumatic a dog attack can be, and we take the time to address your concerns and develop a strategy tailored to your needs.
• Aggressive representation: We fight to hold negligent dog owners accountable and secure the maximum compensation for your injuries.
• No fees unless we win: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay us unless we successfully recover compensation for you.
Contact SVR Law Firm Today for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack, don’t wait to seek legal help. SVR Law Firm is here to provide aggressive representation and guide you through the legal process. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you get the compensation you deserve.