Texas Dog Bite Law

Texas does not have a single statute that automatically makes dog owners liable for every bite. Instead, dog bite claims in Texas are generally governed by a combination of common law principles and local ordinances.

Under Texas law, a dog owner may be held liable if:

• The dog has a known history of aggression or prior bites, and
• The owner knew or should have known about the dog’s dangerous tendencies.

This is often referred to as the “one-bite rule,” although it can be misleading. A dog does not always get a free pass for the first bite. Even without a prior bite history, owners can still be held liable if they were negligent, such as by allowing a dog to roam freely, failing to use a leash, or violating local leash laws in Abilene.

An Abilene dog bite attorney can review the facts of your case, identify which legal theory applies, and determine the strongest path to compensation.

Common Causes of Dog Bite Incidents

Dog attacks can occur in many everyday situations, including:

• Dogs running loose in neighborhoods
• Attacks at parks or apartment complexes
• Bites involving delivery drivers or visitors
• Failure to leash dogs in public areas
• Improper fencing or unsecured gates

Children are particularly vulnerable to dog bites, often suffering injuries to the face, neck, and hands. Regardless of where or how the bite occurred, you may have a valid claim if the owner failed to act responsibly.

How to Prove Liability in a Dog Bite Claim

Successfully recovering compensation requires proving that the dog owner or another responsible party is legally liable. Depending on the circumstances, this may involve showing:

• Prior Knowledge of Aggression: Evidence that the dog had previously bitten someone or displayed aggressive behavior, such as growling, lunging, or snapping.
• Negligence by the Dog Owner: Proof that the owner failed to use reasonable care, such as violating leash laws, allowing the dog to escape, or failing to warn others about a dangerous dog.
• Violation of Local Ordinances: Abilene and Taylor County leash or animal control violations can strengthen a dog bite claim.
• Causation and Damages: Medical records, photographs, and witness statements connecting the bite to your injuries and losses.

Our Abilene dog bite attorney will gather evidence, work with medical professionals, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Dog attacks often result in more than minor wounds. Common injuries include:

• Deep puncture wounds and lacerations
• Infections, including rabies or tetanus
• Permanent scarring and disfigurement
• Nerve damage
• Broken bones
• Psychological trauma, including PTSD and anxiety

These injuries can require extensive medical treatment, plastic surgery, and long-term therapy, all of which should be considered when calculating compensation.

Compensation Available to Dog Bite Victims

Victims of dog bites in Abilene may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, including:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Costs of psychological counseling

In cases involving severe negligence or reckless behavior, additional damages may be available. KRW Lawyers works to fully evaluate the impact of your injuries and pursue maximum compensation.

Dealing With Insurance Companies

Most dog bite claims are paid through homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policies. Unfortunately, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. They may argue that:

• The victim provoked the dog
• The injuries are not as severe as claimed
• The dog owner is not legally responsible

Having an Abilene dog bite attorney on your side levels the playing field. We handle all communications with insurers and protect you from unfair tactics.

Dog Bite Claim FAQs

How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Texas?

In most cases, Texas law allows two years from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline can result in losing your right to compensation.

What if the dog never bit anyone before?

You may still have a valid claim based on negligence, leash law violations, or failure to control the dog.

Can I file a claim if the dog belongs to a friend or neighbor?

Yes. These claims are typically paid by insurance, not directly out of the owner’s pocket.

What if my child was bitten by a dog?

Children have special legal protections, and claims involving minors often result in higher compensation due to long-term effects.

Do I need a lawyer for a dog bite claim?

While not required, working with an experienced Abilene dog bite attorney greatly improves your chances of recovering full compensation.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite

Taking the right steps after a dog bite is essential to protecting your health and your legal claim. Here’s a quick guide on what to do if you’ve been bitten:

• Seek Medical Care Immediately: Even minor injuries can result in infections or complications, so it’s critical to see a doctor right away.
• Report the Incident: Notify local animal control or the Abilene Police Department to document the attack and help prevent future incidents.
• Document the Attack: Take photos of your injuries and the scene, and gather contact information for witnesses.
• Retain Evidence: Keep copies of medical records, bills, and any documentation related to the attack.
• Consult an Attorney: Contact KRW Lawyers as soon as possible so we can begin building your case and ensure your rights are protected.

We’re here to provide the legal guidance you need every step of the way.

Why Choose KRW Lawyers for Your Dog Bite Case?

At KRW Lawyers, we are not just your attorneys—we are your advocates. With decades of experience and a proven record of success, we have what it takes to handle even the most complex dog bite claims.

When you work with a dog bite attorney in Abilene, you want a team that understands how these cases are handled in local courts and by local insurers, including matters that may go through Taylor County civil courts or involve treatment at facilities like Hendrick Health. We draw on our experience across Texas to anticipate how insurers evaluate dog bite claims, what evidence will be most persuasive, and how to present your story in a way that fully reflects the impact of the attack on your daily life and long-term recovery.