Bedford Dog Bite Lawyer
A dog bite or attack is a traumatic experience, especially for children. Because they are still growing and experiencing new things, a dog attack can cause severe psychological harm to kids. However, no matter your age, a dog attack could leave you with severe physical, psychological, and financial injuries.
A seasoned personal injury attorney could hold a dog owner financially accountable through a civil claim when an incident occurs because of their negligence. Schedule a meeting with an experienced Bedford dog bite lawyer who can help you hold a reckless pet owner accountable.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite
Dog bites frequently occur on both private and public properties, including neighborhoods and parks. Vital steps to take after an attack to secure your chances of financial recovery include:
- Seeking treatment from a medical care professional
- Asking for proof of vaccinations, including rabies shots
- Reporting an incident to animal control or the police department
- Collecting an animal owner’s name and information, including insurance
- Reaching out to a dog bite attorney in Bedford to go over the details of a case
- Collecting documentation, including medical bills and records, photographs, and witness statements
Quickly taking these steps could ensure there is documentation to establish damages and save time in the long run.
The One Bite Rule and Strict Liability
Texas has no civil statute regarding dog bites or animal attacks. However, in a 1974 decision, Marshall v. Ranne, the Texas Supreme Court ruled that the state must follow a one-bite rule. Under this rule, a claimant must establish two elements to recover damages:
- A dog owner knew an animal had a history of aggressive behavior or had previously caused harm to others
- A pet owner was negligent, and their failure to protect the public from an animal caused the damages
A skilled lawyer in Bedford could answer questions about a dog attack and help collect the evidence needed to recover fair compensation.
Proving Negligence After a Dog Bite or Attack
It is possible to prove a dog owner was negligent and recover compensation for damages. However, the following elements must be present to establish liability successfully.
A Dog Owner Owed an Injured Party a Duty of Care
Everyone must behave responsibly to avoid causing harm to others. Dog owners must always keep their pets on a leash or behind a fence to protect the public from harm, especially if an animal has a history of aggression.
A Defendant Breached a Duty of Care
If evidence that a loose dog previously attacked a defendant exists, a claimant may be able to establish a breach of duty of care. Evidence to prove an incident might include witness statements or animal control reports.
An Accident and Injuries Occurred Because of a Breach
Proving an attack caused a plaintiff’s injuries will satisfy this portion of confirming liability. A claimant could establish this with expert testimony, hospital records, or witness statements.
A Plaintiff Sustained Damaged Because of a Defendant’s Negligence
For a successful claim to recover compensation, a plaintiff must have suffered verifiable damages. They can prove this with medical records and hospital bills.
Call a Dedicated Dog Bite Attorney in Bedford
A dog attack often leaves a victim with physical and emotional scars. If you suffered injuries from a negligent pet owner, you could have the right to recover compensation for damages.
A diligent legal professional could help you navigate a civil court process and advocate on your behalf. If you need help with a claim, call a hardworking Bedford dog bite lawyer to schedule a consultation.