Dog Attack Attorney in El Paso
Seek Legal Help to Secure Compensation
Did you or a loved one suffer injuries in a dog attack? You might be entitled to compensation for your losses. Animal bites and attacks can be devastating and may result in serious, life-threatening injuries. Tragically, children are the most common victims of severe harm in dog attacks. A personal injury attorney can help ensure you receive the financial recovery you deserve.
Marco Aranda, a leading dog attack attorney in El Paso, provides dedicated representation for victims of dog bites. Negligent owners must be held accountable for failing to secure their pets or not taking responsibility for their dangerous dogs. If you were injured in a dog attack, contact the Aranda Law Firm at (915) 996-9914 to schedule a complimentary consultation.
Dog Attack Injuries
Injuries in dog attack cases can range in severity, but they are often very serious. If you or your loved one was seriously injured in a dog bite or other animal attack, you need to speak with an attorney to determine whether you have a valid claim for damages.
Common injuries in dog attacks include:
- Broken bones
- Facial lacerations
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Disfigurement
- Lacerations and deep cuts
- Mental anguish
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Even if you are unsure whether you have a serious injury, you should still seek medical attention immediately and consult with a lawyer. Failing to seek medical attention can directly impact your case. You may not be entitled to compensation for all of your injuries since they could have worsened due to the delay in treatment.
Liability in Dog Bite Cases in El Paso
Texas does not have a civil statute that imposes liability on a dog owner; however, it follows what is known as the “one-bite rule.” In other words, if the dog owner knew or should have known that their dog had a tendency towards aggressive behavior, such as that it had previously bitten someone, they can be held liable for damages.
Contrary to popular belief, the “one-bite rule” does not allow dogs one free bite, and it does not absolve dog owners of any liability if the dog did not previously show aggressive behavior. An owner may still be found negligent in other situations. It is in your best interest to discuss your case with a dog attack attorney to determine who you can file a claim against and whether it will likely be successful.
“Dangerous Dogs” in Texas
The Texas Health and Safety Code does define what the state considers a “dangerous dog.” In addition to a civil lawsuit, dog owners may be held criminally liable if their dangerous dog attacks a person.
A dangerous dog is any dog that:
- Makes an unprovoked attack in an area outside of their secure enclosure, causing bodily injury.
- Commits an unprovoked act outside of their secure enclosure that causes a person to reasonably believe the dog will attack, causing bodily injury.
If you were attacked by a dangerous dog, you need to consult with a dog attack attorney in El Paso about your rights. You likely have the right to compensation for your injuries, including your pain and suffering.
Secure Enclosures for Dogs in Texas
Dangerous dog owners in Texas are required to keep their dogs in a secure enclosure. Failure to keep an animal in a secure enclosure can result in liability.
Secure enclosures include fenced areas or structures that are:
- Locked.
- Able to prevent the general public from entering (including children).
- Able to prevent the “escape or release” of the dog.
- Marked as containing a “dangerous dog.”
- In compliance with requirements set forth by the local animal control authority.
In dog attack cases, it is often the small details that can help prove your case. It is essential to make note of where the dog was located at the time of the attack. However, even if you were injured inside of another person’s home, you may still be entitled to compensation.
As with all personal injury cases, it is crucial to act fast, as you only have a limited amount of time to file a claim.
Contact the Aranda Law Firm to Schedule a Consultation
Were you or a loved one injured in a dog attack? If so, contact the Aranda Law Firm to schedule a dog bite case evaluation. Do not wait. Call the El Paso office today at (915) 996-9914 to consult with a dog bite attorney for free.
