According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 4.5 million canine attacks occur each year. Moreover, about 20 percent of the resulting wounds become infected. When a dog owner fails to control their pet and they cause an injury, they could be held liable in court.
If you or a loved one were injured due to the negligent actions of a pet owner, a Grand Prairie dog bite lawyer may be able to help you file a lawsuit. You may be eligible to seek compensation for your damages and injuries. A skilled personal injury lawyer may be able to assist with exercising your rights under the law.
One Bite Rule
In a case called Marshall v. Ranne, the Texas Supreme Court held that the state would follow the general Restatement of Torts guidelines on this type of claim. The decision implemented the one-bite rule.
The one-bite rule does not mean that a dog owner gets one free pass on responsibility for a pet bite. The regulation refers to whether or not a dog owner knew their pet might be dangerous.
The plaintiff’s Grand Prairie dog attack attorney needs to prove that the owner knew or had reason to know of the dangerous propensities of the canine. If a dog has bitten another individual before, a reasonably prudent person would likely exercise care in keeping their pet away from situations in which they might attack. If an owner does not fulfill this duty of care, they may be liable for damages.
For a free legal consultation, call (817) 775-5364
Attacks Involving Trespassers
Landowners and lessees owe a minimal obligation to individuals who come onto their land without permission.
Under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies § 75.003, an owner of the property does not owe a duty to those trespassing on their land beyond avoiding the willful infliction of harm. A dog bite lawyer in Grand Prairie may have experience with cases where a plaintiff is found partially at fault for trespassing.
Grand Prairie Dog Bite Lawyer Near Me (817) 775-5364
Wild and Abnormally Dangerous Animals
If a dog is deemed to be a wild animal, the court may apply a different standard to that type of pet. Additionally, dogs that are found to be vicious may be judged using that distinction under Texas law.
Owners of wild or ferocious dogs may become strictly liable for the harm caused by these unpredictable animals. This means that the dog’s owner would not be allowed to raise a defense that the plaintiff contributed to their own injury. An experienced lawyer in Grand Prairie could gather evidence and prove the negligence of the pet owner in court.
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Contact a Grand Prairie Dog Bite Attorney Today
A dog bite or attack could be a painful experience and even fatal if it becomes infected. With the help of a seasoned attorney, the injury and other types of damages such as pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life may be compensable under Texas law.
If you were bitten or attacked by an animal, a dedicated Grand Prairie dog bite lawyer may be able to help you recover compensation. Schedule an appointment for a legal consultation today.
Call (817) 775-5364 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form