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Dog Bites: Seeking Justice and Compensation

While dogs are often considered loyal companions, they are still animals capable of acting on instinct unexpectedly. If you have been injured in an animal attack, don’t wait to seek compassionate and experienced representation during this challenging period. The attorneys at Schiffer Law Firm are here to support and guide you through every aspect of your case. Our goal is to secure more than just financial compensation. We strive to provide you with answers and ensure that you never have to go through a similar ordeal. Our dedication is to fighting for justice on your behalf, which is why our clients trust us time and time again.

Understanding Dog Bites in Tort Law

Dog bites are undoubtedly traumatic events that can result in severe, permanent injuries—physical and mental. In tort law, victims of dog bites have the right to seek compensation for their injuries and damages, holding the responsible parties accountable for their negligence. These responsible parties include both the dog owner and sometimes even the premises owner if the dog was a known risk to others.

Unveiling the Devastating Consequences of Dog Bites

Dog bites can cause a range of physical, emotional, and financial damages, impacting victims in various ways:

Strict Liability: In many jurisdictions, dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets. This means that the owner can be held responsible for the actions of their dog, regardless of whether they had any previous knowledge of the dog’s aggressive tendencies. Schiffer Law Firm will help establish liability by investigating the circumstances surrounding the dog bite, gathering evidence, and consulting with experts if necessary.

Physical Injuries: Dog bites can cause a wide array of injuries, ranging from puncture wounds and lacerations to broken bones, nerve damage, and scarring. In severe cases, victims may require extensive medical treatment, including surgeries, reconstructive procedures, and physical therapy. These injuries may lead to long-term pain, suffering, and disability, requiring ongoing medical care and imposing significant financial burdens.

Emotional Trauma: Dog bites can have lasting psychological effects on victims. They may experience fear, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or even a fear of dogs in general. Emotional distress resulting from the incident can disrupt their daily lives, relationships, and overall quality of life. Schiffer Law Firm understands the emotional toll of such events and aims to seek compensation not only for physical injuries but also for the emotional trauma endured by the victims.

Filing Dog Bite Claims in the State of Texas

When it comes to dog bite claims in Texas, it’s crucial to understand your rights. These cases fall under premises liability, which can add complexity to the legal process. While Texas doesn’t have a specific statute for dog bite claims, the state follows the “negligence” or “one bite rule.”

To make a successful claim as an injured victim, you must demonstrate one of the following:

• The owner was aware that the dog had previously bitten someone
• The owner knew the dog had shown aggressive behavior
• The owner was negligent in controlling the dog
• The owner failed to take precautions to prevent injury

This means you need strong evidence to show either the dog’s prior aggressive behavior or the owner’s negligence in restraining the animal. Our Texas dog bite lawyers at Schiffer Law Firm can help you seek compensation for damages like medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses.

What Constitutes Dog Owner Negligence?

In most cases, dog bites occur due to owner negligence. Negligence can manifest in various ways, such as allowing a dog to roam unleashed in the neighborhood or neglecting to fix a damaged backyard fence where the dog resides. Regardless of the specifics, such claims fall under premises liability since the pet is considered the owner’s property.

In premises liability cases, you have a two-year window to file a claim within the statute of limitations. Furthermore, you must prove that the owner breached their duty of care by acting unreasonably, leading to your injuries. This requires a high level of experience and legal skill, making the assistance of the team at Schiffer Law Firm invaluable.

You deserve top-tier legal representation.