Dog Bite Lawyer in Harris County, Texas | Todd E. Webb, Esq.
When a dog attacks someone, the injuries can be quite serious, leading to costly medical bills, lost wages, and questions about legal rights. Dog bite injuries affect many Harris County residents each year, leaving physical scars and emotional trauma that last far beyond the initial incident.
Our Harris County dog bite lawyer at the Law Office of Todd E. Webb helps injury claimants pursue compensation for these damages so that claimants can focus on the healing process. Our experienced legal team provides guidance through Texas liability laws and holds responsible parties accountable for their animals’ actions.
Texas Dog Bite Laws and Owner Liability
Texas follows a “one bite rule” combined with negligence principles for dog attack cases. This means owners may be held liable if they knew or should have known their dog had dangerous tendencies. Previous aggressive behavior, breed characteristics, or warnings from others can establish this knowledge. However, injured parties can also pursue claims based on negligence, which occurs when an owner fails to exercise reasonable care in controlling their animal.
Harris County ordinances add another layer of protection by requiring dogs to remain on leashes in public spaces and stay within enclosed areas on private property. Violations of these regulations can support negligence claims following an attack. Property owners who harbor dangerous animals may also face liability under premises liability laws, regardless of whether they own the dog.
What Are the Most Common Injuries From Dog Attacks?
The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that “approximately 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs every year in the United States.” These attacks cause various injuries ranging from minor puncture wounds to severe tissue damage. Facial injuries are particularly common in children, who account for a significant portion of those attacked by dogs.
How Can I Build a Strong Legal Case for a Dog Bite?
Documentation plays a vital role in dog attack claims. Medical records establish the extent of injuries and link them directly to the incident, and photographs of wounds, torn clothing, and the attack location preserve important evidence. Witness statements corroborate the injured party’s account and provide additional details about the dog’s behavior and the owner’s actions. Additionally, animal control reports and veterinary records may reveal a history of aggressive behavior; our Harris County dog bite lawyer investigates whether the dog had previous incidents or complaints filed against it.
Where Are Dog Bites Likely to Happen in Harris County?
Dog bites in Harris County most often occur in busy shared spaces such as parks and trails, including Terry Hershey Park, Bear Creek Pioneers Park, and the Buffalo Bayou Trail, where pedestrians and pets mix. Residential neighborhoods from the Heights to Sugar Land also see incidents as dog ownership rises. Although leash laws apply, violations happen, and injured parties work with our Harris County dog bite lawyer to pursue accountability.
What Are the Time Limits for Filing Claims?
Under Texas law, most personal injury claims, including those for dog attacks, must be filed within two years from the date the injury occurs. This deadline is set by Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003, and if a lawsuit is not filed before the two-year period expires, the plaintiff will generally be barred from suing for compensation. Although exceptions exist, the limit applies to dog bite cases and begins on the date of the incident.
What Steps Should I Take After a Dog Bite?
Immediate medical treatment takes priority after any dog attack, even for seemingly minor wounds. Infections develop quickly, and some injuries prove more serious than they initially appear. Obtain the dog owner’s contact information and insurance details before leaving the scene; report the incident to local animal control to create an official record and protect others from the same animal. Take photographs of all injuries, clothing damage, and the location where the attack occurred, and collect contact information from anyone who witnessed the incident, as their statements may prove valuable later. Avoid discussing fault or making statements to insurance adjusters before consulting with our Harris County dog bite lawyer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the Dog Owner Claims I Provoked the Animal?
Provocation can influence liability in dog attack cases. Texas law examines whether the injured party’s actions were reasonable and whether those actions directly caused the dog to attack. Trespassing, teasing, or harming a dog may constitute provocation, whereas simply walking past a dog or entering a property with permission typically does not.
Can I File a Claim if the Attack Happened on Private Property?
Yes, attacks on private property can support legal claims depending on the circumstances. Property owners owe different duties based on the injured party’s status as an invitee, licensee, or trespasser. Postal workers, delivery personnel, and invited guests generally receive the highest level of protection under premises liability law.
How Long Does It Take to Resolve a Dog Bite Case?
That depends on injury severity, liability disputes, and insurance company cooperation. Simple cases with clear liability and minor injuries may settle within months, whereas serious attacks with disputed facts can take a year or longer. Litigation extends the process, but our Harris County dog bite lawyer can discuss this option with you when settlement negotiations fail to produce fair compensation.
Are Certain Breeds More Dangerous Than Others?
Although some breeds have stronger bites or more aggressive reputations, any dog can attack regardless of breed, size, or training history.
What if the Dog Has Never Bitten Anyone Before?
Prior bite history is not always required to establish liability, as negligence claims can succeed based on violation of leash laws or failure to control the animal.
Can I Sue if a Stray Dog Attacked Me?
Stray dog cases present challenges in identifying a responsible party, although claims may be possible against property owners who fed or harbored the animal.
Harris County Dog Bite Lawyer at the Law Office of Todd E. Webb Will Help You Start Your Financial Recovery
If you were injured in an animal attack, contact the Harris County dog bite lawyer at the Law Office of Todd E. Webb to explore your legal options. Call us today at 713-529-4400 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Our office is in Houston, Texas.