DOG BITES – ANIMAL ATTACKS
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DOG BITES – ANIMAL ATTACKS
The American Humane Association reports that over 5 million dog bites are sustained yearly. Most of these bites occur near a victim’s property, with an about equal number being caused by dogs that are chained and by dogs that are unleashed. Texas residents enjoy stricter laws regarding owners’ liability and can generally be compensated for injuries that they sustain after a dog bites them. More about our dog bite-animal attack Attorneys here
Texas Dog Bite Laws
Each state can set laws regarding personal injury claims, including statutes and case law about dog bites. Some states have a “One Bite” rule in which the first bite that a dog makes will not result in liability against the dog owner. In these states, the dog owner’s knowledge of his dog’s history of violence or propensity for violence is determined by his liability. Texas has a strict liability law regarding owners’ liability. If a dog bites a person legally on the property, the dog owner will be held liable for the injuries the victim sustains. Find more information about Dog Bite Injury Attorneys in San Antonio here
If the victim contributed to the dog bite due to his negligence, the percentage of his failure that contributed to the dog bite would reduce the jury award by the same rate. If a person exercises control over the dog but is not the owner, he can also be liable for the injuries.
Types of Injuries Related to Dog Bites
Dog bites can result in several serious injuries. 71% of injuries occur in the arms, hands, legs, and feet. Victims may have significant, gaping wounds that are caused by dog bites. They may incur lacerations. They may develop permanent scars due to the dog bite. They may also be infected by bacterial or rabies infections. Many dog bite victims also sustain psychological trauma because of a dog bite and may have a fear of dogs for the rest of their lives.
Types of Damages Related to Dog Bites
The owner or person in control of the dog can be required to compensate the victim for his injuries. The victim can recover medical expenses, including visiting the emergency room, surgeries, plastic surgery, and prescription medicine. Victims’ income lost due to seeking medical treatment and recovering from the wounds can also be compensated. Victims can also recover from pain, suffering, and any mental distress resulting from the sustained dog bite.
Actions After Sustaining a Dog Bite
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that over 800,000 people seek medical treatment after sustaining a dog bite each year. Nearly half of these victims required treatment in an emergency medical services center. Injured victims may receive preventative treatment for Rabies and Tetanus. Many victims retain the services of personal injury attorneys, and dog bite injury claims represent over $1 billion in jury awards and settlements each year.
