You’re out for a walk in your neighborhood when, seemingly out of nowhere, a loose dog charges at you. Before you can react, the dog bites your leg, sending a sharp pain through your body. The owner rushes over, apologizing profusely, but the damage is done. Blood trickles from the wound, and your mind races—do you need medical attention? Will the bite get infected?
Dog bites happen more often than people realize. Beyond the immediate pain, you may face medical expenses, lost wages, and even long-term trauma. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Texas, you need to understand your legal rights. True Law Firm is here to help you determine whether you should take legal action to seek compensation for your injuries.
Below, we highlight some situations indicating it’s time to call an attorney after a dog bite.
When the dog bite leads to serious injuries
Not all dog bites are minor. Some attacks result in severe injuries that require stitches, surgery, or even long-term medical care. You should call an attorney if the bite is deep, causes nerve damage, or leads to permanent scarring. Medical bills for emergency room visits, surgeries, and physical therapy can add up quickly, and you shouldn’t have to bear these costs if someone else’s negligence caused the attack.
An experienced attorney at True Law Firm can help you pursue compensation for your medical expenses, pain and suffering, and any future treatment. Without legal representation, you risk settling for less than you deserve from the dog owner or their insurance company.
When the dog owner refuses to take responsibility
Some dog owners are cooperative and willing to cover medical expenses, but others may deny responsibility. They might claim their dog has never shown aggression before or argue that you provoked the attack. In Texas, proving negligence is critical to a successful dog bite claim, and that can be difficult when the owner refuses to accept fault.
If the dog owner is avoiding responsibility or attempting to shift blame onto you, it’s time to call an attorney. A lawyer can gather the necessary evidence—such as witness statements, medical records, and animal control reports—to establish liability and fight for compensation for you.
When the insurance company offers a lowball settlement
Many dog bite claims are settled through homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policies. However, insurance companies don’t always have your best interests in mind. Their goal is to pay out as little as possible, and they may offer you a quick settlement that doesn’t cover the full extent of your damages. You must never accept any offer from insurance without an attorney.
If an insurance adjuster contacts you with an offer, don’t accept it before speaking with a lawyer. At True Law Firm, our experienced dog bite attorneys know how to negotiate with insurance companies and fight for a fair settlement that truly reflects the full impact of your injuries, including medical expenses and lost wages.
When the attack involved a dangerous or previously aggressive dog
Texas law allows victims to seek compensation if a dog owner knew or should have known that their dog was dangerous. If the dog has a history of biting, attacking, or showing aggression, the owner may be strictly liable for your injuries.
If you’ve been bitten by a dog with a known history of aggression, calling an attorney is crucial. A lawyer can investigate prior complaints, review animal control records, and determine whether the owner violated any laws, such as leash ordinances. This information can strengthen your claim and increase your chances of receiving compensation.
When a child or elderly person is bitten
Dog bites can be especially dangerous for young children and elderly individuals. A child’s smaller size makes them more vulnerable to serious injuries, and older adults may suffer severe complications due to weakened immune systems or pre-existing health conditions.
If a dog bite has left your child or an elderly family member with significant injuries, you should seek legal help right away. True Law Firm understands the devastating impact these injuries can have on families and will work tirelessly to hold the responsible party accountable.
When the bite results in emotional trauma or PTSD
The physical wounds from a dog bite can heal, but the emotional scars may last much longer. Many victims of dog attacks develop anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or a deep fear of dogs that affects their daily lives. Children, in particular, may struggle with nightmares, avoidance behaviors, and long-term psychological distress.
If you or a loved one is suffering from emotional trauma after a dog attack, an attorney can help you seek compensation for psychological counseling and emotional distress. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and you deserve justice for the suffering you’ve endured.
When the attack occurred on someone else’s property
If you were bitten while visiting a friend’s home, walking through a park, or on commercial property, the owner may be liable for your injuries. Property owners have a duty to ensure their premises are safe, and failing to control an aggressive dog could be considered negligence.
A personal injury attorney can assess whether the property owner or another party, such as a landlord or security company, shares responsibility for the attack. True Law Firm will thoroughly investigate your case and explore all possible sources of compensation.
Call True Law Firm to protect your rights after a dog bite
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, don’t deal with the legal process alone. The laws surrounding dog bite liability in Texas can be complex, and insurance companies will do everything they can to minimize your claim. Having an experienced attorney on your side can make all the difference in securing the compensation you need to recover fully.
At True Law Firm, we are committed to fighting for victims of dog attacks. Our team will evaluate your case, gather evidence, and advocate aggressively for your rights. Contact True Law Firm today for a free consultation and take the first step toward justice.
