Dallas Dog Bite Lawyers

Seeking Justice for Animal Attack Victims in DFW 

Dogs are widely considered man’s best friend, but like any other animal, even our canine friends are prone to attack when they feel threatened. All it takes is one dog bite to inflict devastating harm on the lives of victims and their loved ones. If you were bit by a dog in Dallas, you deserve compensation for medical care, time off work, and other losses. 

At J. Alexander Law Firm, our dog bite attorneys are committed to holding negligent pet owners accountable for wrongful injuries. With over $10 million recovered in settlements for clients throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, our experienced lawyers can aggressively pursue justice while safeguarding your rights in and out of the courtroom. 

We understand the enormous financial, physical, and emotional hardships that come with unexpected injuries, which is why our firm is committed to advising your legal steps with wisdom and transparency. When it comes to holding negligent dog owners accountable, put years of experience in your corner by turning to a firm with a proven track record of results.

Bit by a dog in Dallas? Our attorneys can fight tirelessly for the favorable outcome you deserve. Contact us online to discuss your case.

Common Types of Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bites can leave victims with a wide range of severe injuries. Common dog bite injuries include: 

Who Is Liable for a Dog Bite in Texas?

Liability in dog bite claims falls under the umbrella of premises liability. This means that property owners are responsible for any injuries that occur on their premises due to unsafe conditions, such as dangerous animals. 

Understanding the “one-bite rule” is integral to determining liability for dog bites in Texas. This rule states that the owner isn’t liable for their dog’s first bite unless they had prior knowledge of the animal’s aggressive behavior. This differs from strict liability statutes in other states, where an owner may be liable for any injury caused by their dog, regardless of previous aggression or behavior. 

Establishing liability in dog bite lawsuits is complex and requires a nuanced understanding of state law, making it essential to consult with a trusted lawyer as soon as possible after an injury. Our attorneys can help you navigate the legal intricacies of the claims process, gather evidence to support your case, and protect your rights throughout the legal process.   

Common Locations for Dog Bites in Dallas

As a dog-friendly city, DFW offers a variety of fun activities for pets and people alike. From off-leash dog parks to pet-friendly bars and patio restaurants, there are plenty of opportunities for dogs to interact. However, not every interaction ends on friendly terms. Common areas for dog bites in the city include: 

• Public parks: While DFW has plenty of parks for dog lovers, Klyde Warren Park, White Rock Lake Park, and other off-leash areas are also a hotspot for dog bites.
• Residential neighborhoods: Residential sidewalks, yards, trails, and other spaces where dogs roam free can lead to dog bites when animals encounter unfamiliar individuals or other perceived threats.
• Shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues: North Texas is home to a variety of pet-friendly establishments. While it can be fun to enjoy a margarita at MUTTS Canine Cantina or try local beers at Four Corners Brewing, these pet-friendly venues can also increase the risk of dog bites.   

What Damages Are Recoverable in a Dog Bite Lawsuit?

Depending on the circumstances of the case, various damages may be recoverable in dog bite lawsuits. Types of recoverable damages include: 

• Economic damages: These cover direct financial losses like hospital bills, medical care, ongoing and future treatment costs, lost earnings, and loss of earning capacity. 
• Non-economic damages: These cover indirect subjective losses, such as emotional distress, pain and suffering, scarring and disfigurement, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of consortium. 
• Punitive damages: In circumstances involving extreme negligence, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the defendant and deter similar behavior in the future. This may be the case if the dog owner had a specific intent to harm you or acted with a complete disregard for your safety and well-being. 

At J. Alexander Law Firm, our lawyers can evaluate your claim with a practiced legal eye to accurately calculate damages and identify all liable parties, improving your chance of obtaining maximum compensation. 

5 Steps to Take After a Dog Bite Injury

If you were bit by a dog, knowing what steps to take next is essential to safeguard your health and legal rights. Here are some important steps to take after a dog bite: 

1. Seek medical attention: Even if the dog bite seems minor, it’s crucial to seek prompt medical care to rule out any underlying injuries and establish formal documentation of the dog bite.
2. Gather information: Collect the dog owner’s name, contact information, and insurance details if possible, as well as any eyewitnesses who saw the bite occur. 
3. Document the incident: It’s important to document the accident by taking photos or videos of your injuries and the location where the dog bite occurred. 
4. Report the incident: Contact local law enforcement or animal control to report the dog bite to the appropriate authorities. 
5. Consult with an experienced attorney: Seeking representation from a qualified lawyer is imperative to exercise your rights, navigate the legal process effectively, and ensure you’re compensated fairly. 

How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in Texas?

In Texas, the statute of limitations to file a dog bite claim is two years from the date of the injury (Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003). Failure to file a claim within this deadline can result in indelibility for damages, making it crucial to seek sound counsel as soon as possible after an animal attack. 

Personalized Representation for Injured Texans in DFW

No one deserves to pay the price for someone else’s negligence. If you sustained a wrongful injury, securing experienced representation is critical to seeking justice for lost wages, medical care, and other losses. Fortunately, J. Alexander Law Firm has a longstanding reputation for recovering damages for the wrongfully injured throughout DFW. We take pride in providing high-quality representation tailored to each client’s unique needs. When you partner with our firm, you can trust us to give your case the time and personalized attention it deserves while guiding your legal steps wisely at every turn. 

If you were harmed by a negligent pet owner in Dallas, call (214) 206-3264 to schedule a free consultation with our skilled attorneys. Se habla español.