Dog attacks are terrifying experiences, and they can lead to severe injuries. Aside from the bite wound itself, you may have also contracted a number of diseases and viruses. You deserve fair compensation to help you access necessary treatment and recover your losses.
A McKinney dog bite lawyer with Underwood Law Office can help hold the dog owner liable. We can navigate Texas’ dog bite laws and help you secure fair compensation.
Texas’ “One-Bite Rule”
One thing that complicates dog bite cases is Texas’ “one-bite rule.” This common law requires claimants to prove that the owner of the dog who bit them was aware of their pet’s dangerous nature.
If the dog bit someone previously, the victim can usually recover compensation. If not, our McKinney dog bite attorneys can work to establish that the dog manifested other aggressive behaviors in the past, such as:
- Baring its teeth at strangers
- Jumping on guests
- Chasing people
- Fighting with other dogs
Our legal team can investigate the dog’s history. We may discover that other people have filed complaints about the dog, for example.
For a free legal consultation with a dog bite lawyer serving McKinney, call (972) 535-6377
Filing an Insurance Claim for a Dog Bite in McKinney
One way to seek compensation for a dog bite is by filing an insurance claim. You may be able to make a claim with the dog owner’s homeowners policy.
Insurers may work to undervalue or deny your claim, though. They may cite the “one-bite rule” or try to shift blame onto you. For example, they could claim that you were trespassing on the dog owner’s property.
In this case, our legal team can investigate your dog bite and help counter an insurer’s determination of fault. We can also help negotiate a fair settlement.
McKinney Dog Bite Lawyer Near Me (972) 535-6377
Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit Against the Dog Owner
If the dog owner has no insurance or lacks the coverage to account for your losses, you can file a personal injury lawsuit against them instead. Our lawyers can file all the necessary documents to take legal action. If needed, they can represent you in a trial, presenting evidence to a judge or jury.
Not all dog bite cases reach trial, though. We may be able to settle with the defendant during mediation. Regardless, we are prepared to take on your legal case.
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Compensation for Dog Bite Injuries
Aside from immediate medical bills, you or your loved one may qualify for lost wages, future injury-related expenses, and non-economic damages. Since dog bites can be severe, you may have had to take time off work to heal. A medical complication could also require ongoing care.
You can also seek awards for pain and suffering. These damages would account for the physical pain and emotional anguish you experienced. It’s terrifying when a dog attacks, and you may suffer from anxiety and other psychological issues afterward.
Other damages that apply to your case may include:
- Reduced earning capacity if you suffer permanent impairment
- Loss of quality of life
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Out-of-pocket expenses
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Dog Bite Injuries and Complications
Dog bites can lead to severe injuries and a host of medical complications. According to Heliyon, dog bite injuries account for 337,103 emergency room visits per year across the country. Children are at risk of more severe injuries, especially head and face injuries.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dog bites can lead to infections and diseases, such as:
- Rabies
- Brucellosis
- Campylobacteriosis
- Capnocytophaga
- Cryptosporidiosis
- Echinococcosis
- Tapeworms, ringworms, hookworms, and roundworms
- Giardiasis
- Salmonellosis
You may have to take antibiotics and experience symptoms for days after the bite.
See a Doctor After a Dog Bite
Even if you think your dog bite wound is minor, you should seek medical attention immediately. You may have contracted a disease or virus, and the sooner you treat the infection, the better.
Medical documentation can also help establish evidence for your damages. It can safeguard you if an insurer tries to downplay your losses. You will also need to get an idea of how long your treatment will last and what your future medical expenses may be.
We can consult your doctors and other medical experts to calculate your losses and link them to another party’s negligence.
We Can Handle Your McKinney Dog Bite Case on a Contingency Basis
You may hesitate to hire a lawyer due to the expense. With Underwood Law Office, you can start your case with no upfront costs. We only take a percentage of your settlement or verdict.
This way, you don’t have to risk further losses, and you know we will work hard on your case.
Deadlines May Apply to Your Texas Dog Bite Case
If you have to take legal action against a dog owner, you will have to meet a deadline. According to Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003, you generally have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit.
The sooner you start your case, the better we can protect your rights to compensation. We can begin working immediately after your free consultation. Keep in mind that it takes time to build a case. If you miss your deadline, the court could dismiss your lawsuit, and you could lose your chance to secure what you deserve.
Don’t let a negligent dog owner get away with causing your losses. Take action as soon as possible.
Call Underwood Law Office for Your Free Consultation Today
You shouldn’t be left footing the bill for your dog bite injuries. Our McKinney attorneys can handle your case while you rest and recover. We can investigate the dog’s history, gather evidence of its owner’s negligence, and fight for fair compensation.
We welcome you to discuss your accident during a complimentary consultation. We can explain how our legal team can help and answer your questions. Call us today.
Call or text (972) 535-6377 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
