As more families bring dogs into their homes as pets, the number of dog bite attacks increases. Any dog, even one who appears friendly, has the potential to lash out and bite. Dog bites can cause serious injuries and even death. Children are more likely to be seriously injured in dog bite accidents. Dog bites can require surgeries and painful rehabilitation, and they can also cause other medical problems, such as infections.
If you or your loved one have been injured in a dog bite incident in Texas or Arkansas, the attorneys at Rochelle McCullough are here to help. You may be entitled to compensation from the owner or through an insurance claim. Pursuing a claim against the negligent owner can help you hold him or her accountable and provide you with the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and more. Contact the personal injury attorneys at Rochelle McCullough to schedule a free case evaluation and learn more about your rights.
Texas Dog Bite Laws
Previously, Texas had a one-bite rule that applied to dog bite cases. Victims of dog bites had to prove that the dog had previously bitten someone so they could recover compensation from the owner. The one-bite rule prevented many victims from recovering the compensation they needed because they couldn’t prove that the dog that attacked them had bitten someone previously. Many dog bite cases involve a dog who lashes out and bites someone for the first time.
Thankfully, the one-bite rule was abolished in 2007. As a result, when a victim can prove that the owner knew or suspected that the dog was aggressive, he or she can recover damages. Now it is easier for victims of dog bite incidents to recover the compensation they need and deserve.
Proving Liability
To recover compensation after a dog bite, the victim must prove that the dog owner’s negligence caused his or her dog bite injuries. The victim needs to prove that the owner knew the pet had acted aggressively or bitten someone before the incident. You will not have to show that the dog had bitten someone previously. However, if you can prove that the dog snarled or snapped at people, you can show that the owner knew or should have known about the dog’s dangerous propensity.
Additionally, the victim needs to show that the dog owner failed to control their pet before the bite occurred. Finally, the victim needs to show that he or she suffered damages because of the dog bite due to the owner’s negligence. Dog owners may try to hide their dog’s dangerous disposition, so it’s essential to work with an experienced attorney. The dog bite attorneys at Rochelle McCullough will thoroughly investigate any evidence available showing that the dog showed signs of aggression or a dangerous disposition before attacking you.
What To Do If a Dog Bite Has Injured You
Knowing what steps to take after a dog bite incident can help your compensation claim. The first thing you should do is get away from the dog by putting as much distance between you and the dog as possible. You should see a doctor immediately, and if you’ve been severely injured, you should call 911 and request an ambulance. Victims can’t always see all the dangerous aspects of dog bites, like nerve damage, fractures, and infections. Undergoing a thorough examination and any necessary diagnostic tests will help you receive the treatment you need. It will also help you prove the full extent of your injuries.
After you’ve received medical treatment, you should report the bite to animal control and inform the dog’s owner about the bite. You should take photos of your injuries immediately and during the healing process. You should write down all of the days you had to miss work due to your injuries, along with your pain levels. You should also write down the contact information of any witnesses to the dog attack. Witnesses can provide statements that can help your case significantly. Make sure you keep all of your medical records and attend all of your doctor’s appointments.
The Benefits of Working with a Skilled Attorney
In severe dog bite cases, it’s wise to talk to an attorney who can communicate with the pet’s owner on your behalf. Don’t provide a statement to an insurance company or the dog’s owner until you speak to an attorney. Avoid signing a settlement agreement or a sworn statement with your attorney reviewing it and giving you legal counsel. When you work with the skilled attorneys at Rochelle McCullough, we will handle every aspect of your case, including the negotiation process, so that you can focus on your recovery.
Permanent, Scarring Dog Bite Injuries
Injuries from dog bites can range from mild to severe. Every year, some victims of dog mauling incidents experience fatal injuries. When children are involved, they are more likely to suffer disfiguring wounds from dog bites. Since children are the most affected by dog bites, dog attacks involving children are more likely to cause disfiguring facial scars. Victims may need surgery, painful skin grafting, and many stitches to reduce the extent of their disfigurement.
Unfortunately, even when victims receive effective medical care, they may still have permanent physical reminders of the attack. Dog bite attacks can also cause negative psychological effects, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Additionally, anytime a dog’s teeth penetrate a victim’s skin, germs from the dog’s mouth can get into the wound and the bacteria can cause serious infections. In other cases, victims suffer permanent scars or disfigurement.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation with Our Dog Bite Lawyers
If you or your loved one have been seriously injured in a dog bite attack in Texas or Arkansas, you may be entitled to compensation. Victims can pursue compensation for their current and future medical expenses, lost income, lost earning capacity, disability, disfigurement, and pain and suffering. Contact the skilled dog bite attorneys at Rochelle McCullough today to schedule your free case evaluation and learn more about how we can advocate for you.
We extend our personal injury legal services to help clients with dog bite attacks and dog bite injury cases throughout Texas, including Dallas and Fort Worth, as well as in Hot Springs, Arizona. Committed to advocating for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.