Dog Bites

The Growing Concern of Dog Attacks in Texas

Texas, including Austin, Dallas, and Houston, has become a dog-friendly area where off-leash dogs are common. Dogs are able to roam freely off-leash while they are in designated dog parks. Unfortunately, dogs are everywhere and may become vicious and attack whether they are on or off a leash.

With the rise of dog and pet friendly areas, there has been an increase in the number of people that have experienced the painful injury of a dog bite. According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are over 4.7 million dog bite attacks that occur across the United States every year.

Alarming Statistics

• The second highest reason for emergency room visits is for an animal attack or a dog bite
• About 800,000 people in the United States need emergency medical treatment from a dog bite annually
• Dozens of people in the United States are killed by dog bites every year
• Children are the most vulnerable due to their strength and size and become the most common dog bite victims

What Should You Do After a Dog or Animal Attack?

If you or a loved one is injured by a dog or another animal, here's what you need to do immediately:

1. Get immediate medical attention - Even minor-looking bites can become infected
2. Get the dog/pet owner's information - This is crucial for insurance claims
3. Find witnesses in the area that saw the event - Their testimony can be vital
4. Take immediate photographs of your injuries - Document everything
5. Contact experienced legal representation - Protect your rights from the start

Are Pet Owners Responsible for the Attack?

Dog owners and pet owners are responsible for maintaining and controlling their pets. However, it is not uncommon for pet owners to refuse to deal with a victim that has been bit by the owner's dog. Most people do not like admitting that their dog/pet is violent or that their animal may have injured another person.

Important to know: The owner and the homeowner's insurance company could be responsible for the attack and the resulting injuries.

Legal Protection You Deserve

Dog and other animal bites can cause deep emotional and physical scars. When you or a loved one gets injured by a dog or another animal, you need to know your rights. At Ely, Valentine & Reed, PLLC, we make sure that you get compensated for your injuries and are protected from any costs that you had to incur as a result of the animal attack.

Don't let pet owners or insurance companies minimize your injuries or your rights. Contact our experienced Texas personal injury attorneys for a free consultation.