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Most people think of dogs as “man’s best friend,” but sometimes pets can get violent. Dogs bite numerous individuals across the United States annually, especially children. These attacks can lead to severe injuries.
If someone else’s dog bit you, you can receive significant compensation for your losses. However, the laws governing these types of incidents are complex, so it is best to hire a Clear Lake dog bite lawyer to handle your case. Our experienced personal injury attorneys can help you understand your rights and pursue a settlement from the at-fault party.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog attacks can be traumatizing and result in devastating harm. Even if your bite was from a small dog, you shouldn’t underestimate your injuries. Common injuries resulting from dog attacks include:
- Deep lacerations
- Bone fractures
- Infections
- Loss of a limb
- Crushing injuries
- Disfigurement
- Internal injuries
If a large dog knocks you over, you may even suffer from head trauma or spinal cord damage. Depending on the circumstances, these types of injuries can result in paralysis. In the most severe situations, a dog attack can result in death.
If you sustained any of the injuries mentioned above, our attorneys can help you obtain compensation. Conversely, if you lost a loved one in a dog attack, our dedicated legal team can help your family seek justice.
The One-Bite Law in Clear Lake
Unlike many other states, Texas does not have a law governing civil liability for dog bites and attacks. However, the Texas Supreme Court’s decision of Marshall v. Ranne, 511 SW 2d 255 (Tex. S.C. 1974) provides insight into when a dog owner is liable for a bite resulting in injuries.
The Supreme Court created the “one-bite rule,” which states that the first time a dog bites someone, the owner is not liable for damages. After that, the court assumes that the owner has notice of their pet’s tendency to bite. So, the dog owner can be held liable for not taking measures to prevent another bite or attack.
In order to recover damages for a dog bite under Marshall’s one-bite rule, you and your lawyer must establish the following:
- The dog owner had knowledge that the pet bit or acted aggressively toward another person in the past; or
- The owner did not exercise reasonable care to avoid the bite from happening or control the dog, and their negligence caused your injuries.
Our attorneys at Haines Law can provide more information about these laws and how they apply to your case.
Settling a Dog Attack Claim
When you present the at-fault party with a settlement demand, they will likely assess the likelihood that a court would find them negligent and estimate the amount of damages a jury would award you. If you have a seasoned attorney on your side and the opposing party believes the potential damages award would be high, they may be more likely to settle.
Settlement negotiations are often preferable to going to court, as litigation can be costly and time-consuming. A dog bite lawyer in Clear Lake can draft a demand letter and negotiate a settlement that adequately covers your losses.
Contact a Clear Lake Dog Bite Attorney Today
Dog bites can lead to life-altering injuries and psychological trauma. If you attempt to handle your case alone, you could lose the opportunity to obtain full and comprehensive compensation. Do not hesitate to contact one of our Clear Lake dog bite attorneys to begin negotiating a settlement.