Dog Bite Lawyers in Austin, Texas
Dog bite injuries can be serious, leading to scarring, infections, nerve damage, and emotional trauma. Owner liability rules vary by state. Some impose strict liability; others, including Texas, generally require showing the owner knew the dog was dangerous or was negligent in controlling it. A dog bite attorney can help you pursue compensation from the owner or their homeowner's insurance.
Dog Bite Law in Texas
Texas has its own distinct legal landscape that affects personal injury cases. The state follows a modified comparative fault rule — you can recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% responsible for the incident. Texas also has specific caps on certain types of damages in medical malpractice cases, and a two-year statute of limitations for most personal injury claims.
Key Texas Statutes
- Two-year statute of limitations for personal injury (Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, Chapter 16)
- Modified comparative fault — recovery barred if you are 51% or more at fault (Chapter 33)
- Medical malpractice non-economic damage caps of $250,000 per provider, $500,000 for hospitals (Chapter 74)
- Texas is a "fault" state for car accidents — you can file against the at-fault driver
- Employers may opt out of workers' compensation — Texas is the only state that allows this
Common Dog Bite Situations in Austin
- Dog bite injuries requiring medical treatment
- Attacks by dogs with known aggressive history
- Dog attacks on children
- Injuries from unleashed dogs in public
- Scarring and disfigurement from bites
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the "one bite" rule?
Some states follow a one-bite rule and others impose strict liability. Texas, for example, follows a modified one-bite rule. You generally need to show the owner knew or should have known the dog was dangerous. However, negligence in controlling the dog (e.g., no leash, broken fence) can also establish liability even for a first bite.
Will homeowner's insurance cover a dog bite?
Most homeowner's and renter's insurance policies cover dog bite liability. This is often the primary source of compensation. However, some policies exclude certain breeds or deny coverage if the owner knew the dog was dangerous.
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No two situations are the same — consult a qualified attorney for guidance on yours.
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