Most random encounters with dogs are pleasant or at least benign. Dogs are often excited to meet new people and enthusiastic about receiving affection. Unfortunately, not all dogs treasure human interactions. In some cases, dogs may attack humans and cause bite injuries with little or no provocation. Factors including inbreeding, prior abuse and training intended to make a dog defensive could lead to an animal attack injury.
Those hurt by dogs running loose or while visiting on private property may be unsure of their rights. Is it possible to hold a dog’s owner accountable for the injuries they cause in a dog bite incident?
Owners with aggressive dogs may be liable
The circumstances of a dog bite incident determine liability and what options the victim of the attack might have. In some cases, the state may intervene when the animal is aggressive and causes serious injuries. Most of the time, those hurt by dogs have to take the initiative to seek justice.
They may need to file a civil lawsuit against the animal’s owner to secure compensation. To do so, they have to prove that the situation meets a certain standard. Texas has a one-bite rule in dog bite scenarios. The one-bite rule does not come from state statutes but rather from a prior civil court case involving an aggressive boar.
If the owner of an animal knows the animal is aggressive or dangerous, then they are responsible if the animal injures another person. Frequently, that means the dog must have bitten and injured another person previously.
However, a history of aggressive behavior without a bite could be enough to justify holding the owner accountable. Factors including verbal statements made by the dog’s owner and even signs posted on the property could serve as evidence that the owner knew the dog was dangerous. Any formal records showing that the dog has attacked humans or other animals before could also provide the necessary grounds to hold the animal’s owner accountable.
Frequently, homeowners insurance can help cover dog bite injury expenses. Other times, an animal’s owner may have to directly cover those costs. Discussing a dog bite injury scenario with a skilled legal team can help the victim of a canine attack determine their best options. People hurt by aggressive animals may be eligible for compensation for medical expenses, property damage losses and even lost wages.
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The Bowen Law Firm, PLLC
14202 Champion Forest Drive
Houston, Texas 77069
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