Dog bites can cause serious injuries that lead to high medical bills, emotional trauma, and even lost wages. If you’ve been bitten by a dog, you may be entitled to compensation. Our experienced legal team specializes in helping victims of dog bites in Arlington file injury claims to recover medical costs, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Why File a Dog Bite Injury Claim?
Filing a dog bite injury claim ensures that you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities. Here’s why it’s essential:
- Medical Costs Recovery: Dog bite injuries can range from minor lacerations to severe infections or lasting damage. We’ll help you recover the full cost of your treatment, including emergency care, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages Compensation: If your injury has prevented you from working, you can claim compensation for lost wages. We’ll calculate the financial impact of your missed work and potential future lost earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering Damages: Dog bites can cause emotional distress and trauma, not just physical injuries. You may be entitled to compensation for the psychological impact of the attack, such as fear and anxiety.
- Long-Term Care: Severe bites can cause long-lasting physical damage, requiring ongoing medical attention. Our firm will seek compensation for any necessary future care, such as physical therapy or reconstructive surgery.
Arlington Dog Bite Laws Overview
Texas follows a ‘one-bite rule,’ meaning dog owners are typically held liable if they knew or should have known of their dog’s aggressive tendencies. Arlington dog owners can be liable for injuries if evidence supports that they acted negligently or violated local ordinances.
Besides strict liability, Arlington dog owners can also be found liable under negligence principles if they failed to properly control or restrain their dog. This may include cases where the dog owner violated local leash laws or animal control regulations, leading to the injury.
Key Points:
- Provocation Exception: Under Texas law, dog owners may reduce or avoid liability by proving the victim provoked the dog, but the provocation must be significant enough to justify the dog’s response in that context.
- Owner Liability: In Texas, dog bite liability primarily relies on negligence, often requiring proof that the dog owner knew of the dog’s dangerous tendencies or that they failed to exercise reasonable care in controlling the dog, particularly if local leash laws were violated.
- Lawful Presence: The victim must have been lawfully on the property where the bite occurred.
How We Can Help
The aftermath of a dog bite can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to navigating the legal system. We’re here to relieve that burden. We’ll manage every step of your case, from gathering the necessary evidence, filing your claim, negotiating with insurance companies, and, if necessary, taking your case to court.
Our goal is to ensure that you receive full compensation for your injuries and losses. Whether you’re facing mounting medical bills, emotional trauma, or lost income, we have the expertise to guide you through the legal process efficiently and effectively.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite
Follow These Key Steps After a Dog Bite IncidFollow These Key Steps After a Dog Bite Incident:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if the bite seems minor, seek medical care immediately. Dog bites can cause infections, including tetanus and severe bacterial infections, if not treated properly.
- Document the Incident: Take photos of your injuries, the location of the incident, and, if possible, the dog involved. Collect contact information for any witnesses.
- Report the Bite: Report the bite to Arlington Animal Services or the appropriate local authority. An official report is essential for evidence and helps verify the dog’s history of aggression, if any.
- Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer: The sooner you consult a lawyer, the better. Early legal intervention can strengthen your case and increase your chances of recovering compensation.
By taking these steps, you protect your health and your legal rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a dog bite injury claim in Arlington?
In Texas, including Arlington, the statute of limitations for filing a dog bite injury claim is two years from the date of the incident. For minors, the statute of limitations is extended until they reach 18, allowing them to file a claim up to two years after their 18th birthday if no claim was filed by a guardian.
What compensation can I receive from a dog bite injury claim?
In Arlington, compensation for a dog bite claim may cover medical expenses (both current and future), lost income, pain and suffering, emotional distress, rehabilitation costs, and any long-term disfigurement or disability resulting from the incident.
Do I need to pay upfront legal fees?
We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay any legal fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you.
Contact Us
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, don’t wait to get the help you need. We’re here to provide expert legal guidance and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free case evaluation – there’s no risk and no obligation.