Dog Bite Lawyer Houston
Dog bites can cause serious physical injuries, emotional trauma, and lasting scars—both visible and psychological. If you or a loved one has been attacked by a dog in Houston, you may have the right to seek compensation for your injuries. Proving liability requires legal experience and a deep understanding of local ordinances and state laws. That’s where an experienced Houston dog bite lawyer like Attorney Imran Dhanani can step in.
At Dhanani Law, we know how overwhelming it can be to deal with medical bills, insurance companies, and the emotional toll of a dog attack. We investigate the incident thoroughly, gather medical evidence, and hold negligent dog owners accountable. Whether the bite occurred on public property or in a private yard, we fight to recover compensation for your medical treatment, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Let us help you pursue justice and secure the support you need to heal.
How Attorney Imran Dhanani
Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help?
Dog bite injuries can be traumatic, both physically and emotionally. A dedicated dog bite lawyer can help you understand your rights, hold the responsible party accountable, and recover the compensation you deserve without dealing with legal stress on your own
- We thoroughly investigate the incident, including the dog's history, property conditions, and any prior complaints or violations.
- We gather medical records, photographs, and witness statements to strengthen your injury claim.
- We determine whether the dog owner violated local leash laws or failed to take reasonable precautions to prevent the attack.
- We handle negotiations with insurance companies that may try to minimize your injuries or deny liability.
- We assess your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any long-term effects such as scarring or trauma.
- If needed, we file a lawsuit and advocate for you in court to ensure your voice is heard and your injuries are taken seriously.
Dog Bite Laws in Houston
In Texas, dog bite cases are governed primarily by the Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 822.003, which holds dog owners strictly liable if their dog bites someone, regardless of the dog’s past behavior. This means the owner can be responsible for damages even if the dog has never bitten before.
However, liability applies only if the victim was lawfully on public property or lawfully on private property, such as a visitor or guest. If the victim was trespassing or provoking the dog, the owner may have a valid defense. Texas also follows a strict liability rule for dog bites, so victims don’t have to prove the owner was negligent, only that the bite occurred and caused injury.
The Houston Code of Ordinances includes specific rules to protect residents from dog-related injuries. Chapter 6, Article VII, Division 3 focuses on dangerous dogs, outlining how dogs are designated as dangerous, the regulations owners must follow, and the safety measures required to prevent attacks. Meanwhile, Division 2 addresses the city’s leash law, mandating that dogs be kept on a leash in public areas to reduce the risk of bites and attacks. Together, these ordinances aim to promote responsible dog ownership and enhance public safety by holding owners accountable for their pets’ behavior.
In Texas, comparative negligence in dog bite cases is governed by Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 33.001. This law means that if the injured person is partially at fault for the dog bite, their compensation will be reduced by the percentage of their responsibility. However, if the injured party is found to be more than 50% at fault, they may be barred from recovering any damages. This rule ensures that compensation is fairly adjusted based on each party’s role in causing the injury.
If you’ve been bitten, consulting a qualified dog bite lawyer can help you understand your rights and navigate the complexities of dog bite law to seek fair compensation.
What Causes Dog Bites in Houston?
- Inadequate supervision of dogs, especially around strangers or children.
- Lack of proper training or socialization leading to unpredictable behavior.
- Dogs feeling threatened, scared, or provoked.
- Territorial instincts causing dogs to protect their home or owner.
- Fear or anxiety triggering defensive biting.
- Neglect or improper confinement increases aggression risks.
- Certain dog breeds require more careful handling and control.
- Sudden loud noises or unfamiliar environments causing stress reactions.
- Owner’s failure to follow local leash laws or safety regulations.
Are Certain Dog Breeds More Likely to Bite?
Certain dog breeds are often reported more frequently in dog bite incidents. While breed alone doesn’t determine a dog’s temperament, some breeds tend to have stronger bite forces or more protective instincts, which can contribute to bite risks if not properly trained or socialized. Here are some breeds that are commonly associated with higher bite statistics:
How Long Do You Have to File a Dog Bite Claim?
In Houston and throughout Texas, you typically have two years from the date of the dog bite injury to file a personal injury lawsuit, according to Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003. This statute of limitations applies to most personal injury claims, including dog bites. Missing this deadline can prevent you from seeking compensation for your injuries, regardless of the strength of your case. It’s important to act promptly to protect your legal rights.
Common Injuries From a Dog Bite
Lacerations and Puncture Wounds
Dog bites often cause deep cuts and punctures that can lead to severe bleeding and scarring.
Tissue and Muscle Damage
Deep bites may injure muscles, tendons, and ligaments, sometimes requiring surgery.
Infections
Bacteria from a dog’s mouth can cause infections like cellulitis or more serious conditions such as rabies or tetanus.
Emotional Trauma
Victims, especially children, may suffer long-lasting psychological effects like anxiety, PTSD, or fear of animals.
Nerve Damage
Severe bites can damage nerves, leading to numbness, tingling, or loss of function in the affected area.
How Much Compensation Can
You Get For a Dog Bite?
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Houston, you may be entitled to compensation for various damages. The amount depends on factors like injury severity and the circumstances of the attack. Here’s what you can potentially recover:
Costs for emergency treatment, surgeries, medications, and therapy
Compensation for time missed from work due to your injuries.
Damages for physical pain and emotional trauma caused by the bite.
Compensation for lasting physical effects.
In cases of extreme negligence or malicious behavior by the dog owner.
