Beaumont Dog Bite Lawyer

Dogs are everywhere in Beaumont, serving as home guards and beloved family pets. Despite their often-docile nature, many of these animals are more dangerous than they appear. Countless attacks occur each year, many of which are unprovoked.

If you were injured in an animal attack, a Beaumont dog bite lawyer may be able to help. Pursuing a civil lawsuit against the owner could provide you with the resources needed to pay for your physical, emotional, and financial losses. Before you attempt to settle on your own, let a dedicated injury lawyer advise you of your options.

Can I Sue the Dog Owner?

In Texas, dog bite injury victims have the opportunity to sue the animal’s owner under certain circumstances. However, not every incident will result in a viable claim for compensation, as the state has adopted what is known as the “one-bite rule.” Under this standard, the owner is only liable if they knew their pet was dangerous prior to the attack.

This might seem like a subjective standard, but there are a few circumstances which make for a strong claim for compensation. For example, if the dog has attacked someone before, the owner is on notice that they are dangerous. This has led to the concept of every animal getting “one free bite” before the owner is liable.

Success in a dog bite claim in Beaumont is possible even if the dog never attacked anyone previously. If they were off their leash in a place where leashes are required, this violation could be used to satisfy the rule.

Exceptions for Trespassers

Property owners—including those with dogs—owe very little to trespassers. However, there are limited circumstances where an owner could be liable for an attack against someone trespassing. In general, they are not held liable for these injuries. However, a claim could be successful if the injured party can show they were willfully harmed by the owner and their dog.

Potential Compensation

Due to the serious nature of these injuries, there are multiple types of damages potentially available through a successful civil lawsuit. With the help of a Beaumont attorney, a plaintiff could recover some or all of the following for a dog bite:

• Past and future medical bills
• Lost wages
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress

Not all the available damages will be immediately apparent to the victim. It is helpful to discuss these cases with legal counsel, who could identify other types of compensation that might be available.

Signs a Dog Might Attack

It is uncommon for dogs to attack without warning. An understanding of the signs of aggression can be helpful for anyone in this situation. As opposed to being openly aggressive, most agitated dogs will avoid engaging with humans they are uncomfortable with. This makes approaching a leery animal risky. There are also body language clues to be aware of. Dogs with hair on the nape of their neck are agitated, and the same is true for animals that are growling and baring their teeth. Knowing these signs could potentially help you avoid an injury.

Talk to a Dog Bite Lawyer in Beaumont Today

If you are living with scars, pain, or medical debt following an animal attack, you could have the right to sue the owner for damages. These cases can be complex, and it is not a good idea to handle them alone. Call a Beaumont dog bite lawyer right away for the guidance you deserve. We are here for you.