Understanding Dog Bite Laws in Laredo, Texas

Humans and dogs have cohabitated for over 12,000 years. Texas maintains this tradition by boasting an estimated 7.2 million dogs, more than any other state. Although the canine bond is fulfilling for so many pet parents, about 800,000 people each year nonetheless experience dog attacks that lead them to seek medical care in the United States.

Dogs bite for many reasons, including past abuse. Even if you understand why a dog mauled you or a loved one, you still suffer your own trauma from the dog bite. If you’ve endured a dog attack, you might be entitled to substantial compensation. Proving liability in Texas is challenging, but you can rely on the expertise of Laredo, TX, attorneys at Carabin Shaw.

Proving Liability Under the “One-Bite Law” in Texas

In most dog attack cases, the pet owner’s insurance pays for injuries. However, the so-called “one-bite law” in Texas shields some owners from liability if the dog hasn’t bitten anyone without provocation in the past.

In general, the onus is on you as a victim to prove one or more of the following:

• The dog is classified as dangerous, and the owner had knowledge of that.
• The owner was negligent of their duty of care.
• The case involves a leash law violation.
• The owner caused the attack.

Understanding dog bite laws in Laredo, Texas, is an important way to advocate for yourself and others. With the help of a lawyer who’s an expert in state and municipal laws, you may be able to build a claim that proves the negligence of any responsible party, including the homeowner, a trainer, or another household member. Possible Compensation for Texas Dog Bite Victims Insurance companies pay an estimated $1 billion per year on homeowner liability claims involving dog bites. As a victim with mounting medical expenses, you likely understand why this amount is so high. Your Laredo dog bite attorney can help you secure the following types of compensation:

• Economic damages: past and future medical bills, including cosmetic scar treatment; loss of wages; loss of earning ability; damaged property or possessions; and more
• Noneconomic damages: pain and suffering; trauma; disfigurement; worsening of previous injuries; and more
• Punitive damages: recoverable if the pet owner’s actions involved malice or gross negligence—in other words, if they wanted to harm you or completely disregarded safety laws for a dangerous or vicious dog

If you were injured on the job, you might also be able to file a workers’ compensation claim. In this case, an attorney still helps you gather strong evidence and maximize your insurance payout.

Information to Gather Following a Dog Bite in Laredo, Texas

If your injuries are severe, then you should prioritize seeking medical attention. But because evidence is crucial for the success of a dog bite case in Texas, you should try to collect documentation before leaving the scene if possible.

In general, the following evidence serves your case:

• Insurance policy and contact information of the dog owner
• Contact information of witnesses and the dog’s custodian
• Photographs of your injuries and the environment where the attack happened
• Pictures of especially relevant information, such as a broken fence or lack of clear “Beware of Dog” signs
• Proof of the dog’s rabies vaccination
• Medical records, which prove the severity of your injuries

All of this information benefits the damage claim you file with the liable party’s insurance company.

Receiving Support from a Dog Attack Attorney in Laredo, Texas

Have you suffered serious injuries from an unprovoked dog attack? Do you believe that your claim settlement offer is unfair? Call the toll-free number 800-862-1260 for a free initial consultation and case review with the Laredo attorneys at Carabin Shaw.

Our staff is available 24/7 to support you in English or Spanish. In addition to convenience and compassion, Carabin Shaw’s client reviews show our team’s dedication to exploring every option and protecting your legal rights.