Dog Bite Laws in Seguin TX - What the “One-Bite Rule” Means for Your Personal Injury Case

Seguin is a small town rich in community and history. More than half of the Texans living in Seguin own a pet, according to national statistics, with dogs being the most popular companion. Unfortunately, some of these animals can be aggressive if they are not adequately trained and controlled by their owners.

A dog attack is a frightening experience that can leave the victim with serious injuries and psychological trauma. The Texas dog bite attorneys at Carabin Shaw utilize the state’s one-bite rule to hold owners accountable for their pets and pursue damages on behalf of victims who have been injured. If a dog attacks you, our compassionate team is available 24/7 to schedule free case reviews in Spanish or English. Call us toll-free now at 800-862-1260.

Many states follow a “one-bite” rule, but the application of the law may vary. To collect damages for a dog bite in Texas, victims and their attorneys must show:

• The dog had bitten before, or the owner knew of the dog’s aggressive nature
• The owner failed to use reasonable care to control the dog or prevent the bite

Dog bite laws can be complex, which is why victims must enlist the expertise and experience of a dog bite attorney in Seguin Texas immediately following the attack. Carabin Shaw has handled many dog bite cases, and our client reviews attest to our ability to maximize damages for victims. We offer our services on a contingency-fee basis, so you pay no money until we win your case.

Under the one-bite rule, a victim doesn’t have to prove that a dog owner’s negligence led to the bite. However, the victim and their lawyer must demonstrate that the owner was aware of the dog’s aggressive tendencies, often through evidence of a previous bite. However, you may use documentation of warning signs, such as:

• Growling or lunging at strangers
• Documented complaints from neighbors or delivery employees
• Explicit warnings about the dog for visitors
• Specialized training for protection or guard work

Your lawyer for a dog attack in Seguin will gather evidence, such as veterinary records, complaints, and witness statements. The evidence should demonstrate that the dog exhibited aggressive tendencies and that the owner was aware of them at the time of the attack.

Dog bite victims can also seek damages if the dog doesn’t have a history of aggression. The victim and their attorney must prove that the owner’s negligence failed to prevent the attack. Negligence requires these elements:

• The owner possessed the animal
• The owner owed a duty of care to prevent the animal from causing injury
• The owner breached that duty through actions or inaction
• The breach led directly to the dog bite
• The breach caused the victim’s injuries and losses

An owner’s negligence might entail failing to keep the dog on a leash in public or keeping the pet enclosed on their property. If the dog owner violated federal or state laws, such as allowing a dog to run at large, they can be guilty of negligence per se, which automatically establishes negligence.

Texas dog bite cases can be challenging for victims. To collect damages, you must prove that the owner was aware of the animal's aggression and failed to take reasonable precautions. In a negligence case, you must show that the owner’s breach of duty led to the attack and your injuries. An experienced local lawyer will investigate your incident to hold the owner liable for the aggressive actions of their animal.

If you are injured in a dog attack, you may suffer serious injuries like internal tissue damage or disfiguring lacerations. These traumatic experiences can also cause psychological damage that makes it difficult to enjoy your life the way you did before your accident. You deserve compensation to cover your medical costs and other losses you incur as a result of your attack.

Carabin Shaw’s expert Texas attorneys have over three decades of combined experience protecting the rights of accident victims like you. Call us today at 800-862-1260 to learn more about how we can help your case.

For more information:

• Texas Bar
• Cornell Law
• Texas Statutes 822
• Cornell Law