San Antonio Dog Bite Attorney

A dog bite or attack is a traumatic experience that can cause serious injuries. If you have been a victim of a dog bite, you should seek medical assistance and get in contact with an experienced dog bite attorney in San Antonio as soon as possible. 

Our team at Alamo City Law Firm understands that dog attacks can be terrifying and may result in not only physical injuries but emotional injuries as well, particularly in children. As such, we work hard to help guide our clients through the legal steps to pursue the compensation they need and deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog bite, let our dog bite lawyer in San Antonio handle your case while you focus on healing.

To learn more about how our dog bite lawyer in San Antonio, TX, can support you, give us a call at (726) 227-4766 or message us online to schedule a free consultation. 

What Should I Do After a Dog Bite Attack?

A dog bite can be a frightening and painful experience, often leaving victims unsure of what steps to take next. Whether the injury seems minor or severe, it's important to respond quickly and carefully to protect both your health and your legal rights.

Steps to take after a dog attack include:

• Seek medical care: Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you believe your injuries are minor.
• Report the incident: Contact animal control or the police to report the incident.
• Collect evidence: Gathering physical evidence, such as clothing, photographs of injuries, and any damaged property, can greatly support your case and substantiate your claims.
• Get witness info and identify the owner: Gather contact details from witnesses to support your account, and find out who owns the animal to establish liability and seek compensation.
• Identify potential parties: Besides the dog's owner, other parties such as property owners or caretakers might also bear legal responsibility.
• Contact a San Antonio dog bite lawyer: They can help you file a claim and pursue justice. Do not give insurance companies information about your dog bite incident or sign any document without consulting your attorney.

Dog Bites Statistics

A recent survey by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention determined that there are nearly 75 million dogs in the United States. The survey shows that dogs bite over 4.7 million people each year. That’s nearly 2% of the population. Furthermore, children are the most vulnerable to dog bites and account for more than 70% of dog bite victims, and often suffer more serious injuries from dog attacks.

Understanding Dog Bite Laws in Texas

In San Antonio, dog bite cases are particularly complex due to the varying local and state laws that may apply. Texas follows the "one bite rule," which generally holds owners liable if they knew their dog had previously bitten someone or acted aggressively. 

However, this can be challenging to prove without documented evidence of past incidents or complaints. San Antonio mandates that all dog owners properly contain and control their animals, maintaining not only the safety of others but also compliance with local ordinances. Victims often find it valuable to collaborate with a San Antonio dog bite attorney familiar with these nuanced regulations to thoroughly investigate all legal responsibilities. Local courts often emphasize the preventive measures an owner took before an incident, highlighting the importance of documenting any reckless behavior on the part of the dog owner.

Compensation Available for Dog Bite Victims

Victims of dog bites may be entitled to various forms of compensation, which are vital for covering expenses and mitigating suffering. 

These may include: 

• Medical expenses: This can include surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and more.
• Lost wages: If you were unable to work due to your dog bite injuries, you may be able to recover lost wages.
• Pain and suffering: You may be entitled to compensation for emotional distress, trauma, and lasting psychological effects caused by the attack.
• Property damage: If personal items such as clothing, glasses, or electronic devices were damaged during the incident, you can seek reimbursement.

The severity of the injury and its impact on quality of life are significant considerations in calculating damages. Consulting with a San Antonio dog bite attorney allows individuals to understand their specific entitlements, as well as the strategies to maximize compensation effectively.

Call Our Team for Guidance

If you've suffered injuries from a dog attack, don't handle your case alone. Our dog bite lawyer in San Antonio offers compassionate guidance and care. Let us put our decades of experience to work for you. When you choose Alamo City Law Firm, you bring on a team that truly cares about your well-being.

Call our team at (726) 227-4766 to learn more about how our dog bite lawyer in San Antonio can help you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Types of Injuries Are Common in Dog Bite Cases?

Dog bites can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts to severe wounds requiring surgical intervention. Often, victims experience puncture wounds, lacerations, and sometimes infections due to bacteria. Facial injuries are particularly common among young children, sometimes necessitating surgery. In addition to visible injuries, nerve damage can occur, causing long-term physical impairment. Victims may also sustain emotional and psychological trauma, leading to conditions like PTSD, especially if the attack involved a particularly aggressive dog. 

How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in San Antonio?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a dog bite personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the incident. This timeframe is crucial to keep in mind, as failing to file within this period typically bars you from pursuing compensation. However, certain exceptions can extend or modify this deadline, such as if the victim was a minor at the time of the bite. It’s essential to start the claim process as soon as possible to preserve crucial evidence and witness testimony. Early legal counsel helps clarify the specific circumstances that might influence your case’s timelines, reinforcing the importance of timely action and informed legal strategy to maximize potential recovery.