Premises Liability and Dog Bites in Texas: What You Need to Know

Premises Liability and Dog Bites in Texas

Dog bites can result in serious injuries, medical expenses, and emotional distress. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Texas, it’s important to understand how premises liability laws apply to these cases. Property owners and dog owners may be held responsible for dog bite injuries under certain circumstances. Below, we’ll explore Texas laws surrounding dog bites, premises liability, and what victims can do to seek compensation.

Understanding Premises Liability in Texas

Premises liability refers to a property owner’s responsibility for injuries that occur on their property due to unsafe conditions. This concept extends to dog bites and attacks, especially when a property owner is aware of a dangerous dog on their premises and fails to take precautions.

Property Owners’ Duty of Care

Texas law generally requires property owners to take reasonable steps to keep visitors safe. This includes ensuring their premises are free of hazards, such as aggressive dogs. However, the level of responsibility varies based on the status of the visitor:

• Invitees: Individuals invited onto the property for business purposes (e.g., customers, delivery personnel). Property owners owe the highest duty of care to invitees.
• Licensees: Social guests or individuals permitted to be on the property. The owner must warn them of known dangers, including aggressive dogs.
• Trespassers: Those unlawfully on the property. Property owners generally owe little duty to trespassers, but they cannot intentionally cause harm.

 Texas Dog Bite Law – State Statutes

Texas follows the one-bite rule, which was established in the Texas Supreme Court case of Marshall v. Ranne. This rule means a dog owner may only be held liable if:

1. The dog had previously bitten someone or shown aggressive behavior, and
2. The owner was aware of this behavior and failed to prevent the attack.

However, even if a dog has never bitten before, the owner may still be liable if they acted negligently, such as failing to restrain the dog properly.

Texas Dog Bite Statistics

• In 2022, Texas reported 404 dog attacks on postal workers, ranking second in the nation.
• Between 2005 and 2013, Texas recorded 34 fatal dog attacks, the highest in the country.
• Nationally, 4.7 million dog bites occur each year, with 800,000 requiring medical attention.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Dog Bite?

Several parties may be held responsible for a dog bite injury, including:

• Dog Owners: If they knew or should have known their dog was dangerous and failed to take necessary precautions.
• Property Owners/Landlords: If they allowed a known dangerous dog on the property without warning tenants or visitors.
• Businesses: If a dog bite occurs on commercial property due to negligence in controlling animals.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Texas

If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite, taking the following steps can help protect your legal rights:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Dog bites can lead to infections and severe injuries.
2. Report the Incident: Notify local animal control or law enforcement.
3. Gather Evidence: Take photos of the injury, the scene, and obtain witness statements.
4. Identify the Dog and Owner: Obtain contact information and any prior history of aggression.
5. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney: A Texas dog bite lawyer can help determine liability and pursue compensation.

Compensation for Dog Bite Victims

Victims of dog bites may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical bills (current and future treatment)
• Lost wages due to time off work
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Scarring and disfigurement

How The Dashner Law Firm Can Help You Win Your Dog Bite Case

If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite attack, The Dashner Law Firm can help. As experienced dog bite attorneys, we represent victims of severe injuries caused by negligent dog owners. Our team understands Texas dog bite laws and premises liability statutes to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

The Dashner Law Firm is here to guide you through the legal process—contact a dog bite attack lawyer in Irving, TX today at 972-635-4460 for a  free consultation.