Midland Dog Bite Lawyer
Attacked by a Dog in Midland, TX?
Dog attacks can be traumatic, painful, and costly. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Midland, TX, you may have the right to pursue compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and other losses. At Hanna Allen, PLLC, our Midland dog bite attorneys are committed to protecting the rights of victims and holding negligent dog owners accountable. We understand how overwhelming these cases can be and will guide you through every step of your claim.
Contact us today at (432) 220-3331 to schedule a free consultation.
Common Reasons Why Dogs Attack
While dogs are often considered loyal companions, even well-behaved dogs can become dangerous under certain conditions. Some of the most common reasons why dogs attack include:
- Provocation or fear: Dogs may bite when they feel threatened or cornered, even if no harm was intended by the victim.
- Lack of training or socialization: Dogs that aren’t properly trained or exposed to people and other animals are more likely to act aggressively.
- Protective instincts: Many dogs attack to protect their owners, food, or territory, especially if they perceive an unfamiliar person as a threat.
- Negligent supervision: A dog owner who fails to control their animal, especially in public areas, puts others at risk.
- Illness or pain: Sometimes, a dog suffering from an undiagnosed medical condition may lash out unexpectedly.
Regardless of the cause, dog owners have a legal duty to ensure their pets don’t cause harm. If you were bitten by someone else’s dog, you may be eligible to recover compensation with the help of a skilled Midland dog bite attorney.
Texas Dog Bite Law
Texas follows what’s commonly referred to as the “one-bite rule.” This law means that a dog owner may be held strictly liable for injuries if:
- The dog has previously bitten someone or shown aggressive tendencies, and
- The owner knew (or should have known) about the dog’s dangerous behavior.
However, even if it’s the first time the dog has bitten someone, the owner may still be liable under negligence laws if they failed to take reasonable precautions—such as keeping the dog on a leash, securing their property, or warning others about the dog’s behavior.
Texas law doesn’t require victims to prove that a dog has a history of aggression to win a claim. Instead, victims can often pursue a negligence claim by showing that the owner’s carelessness directly led to the attack.
Our Midland dog bite lawyer can investigate the incident, collect evidence, and determine the best legal approach for your case.
Texas Animal Control Laws
Local and state animal control laws in Texas play a major role in dog bite cases. These laws are designed to protect the public and reduce the risk of attacks. Key provisions include:
- Leash laws: Many Texas cities, including Midland, require dogs to be restrained on a leash when in public places.
- Dangerous dog designation: If a dog has previously attacked or acted aggressively, animal control authorities can label it as “dangerous.” Owners must then follow specific requirements, such as registering the dog, securing it in a fenced area, and carrying liability insurance.
- Quarantine and reporting: After a bite, the owner must report the incident and quarantine the animal for rabies observation.
Failure to comply with these regulations can strengthen a victim’s legal claim. If a dog owner violates animal control laws and you’re injured as a result, Hanna Allen, PLLC can use those violations as evidence of negligence.
Recovering Compensation After a Dog Bite in TX
Dog bite injuries can cause more than just physical harm—they can lead to emotional trauma, permanent scarring, and financial stress. Victims in Texas may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses: Hospital visits, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and any future care needs.
- Lost wages: Income lost while recovering, as well as diminished earning capacity for long-term injuries.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and psychological trauma.
- Scarring or disfigurement: Many dog bite victims require reconstructive surgery or are left with visible scars.
- Property damage: If personal items like clothing or glasses were damaged during the attack.
Our Midland dog bite attorneys will gather evidence such as medical records, witness statements, and animal control reports to build a strong case for compensation. We handle negotiations with insurance companies and, if necessary, take your case to court to pursue full and fair recovery.
Dog Bite Claim FAQs
What should I do after being bitten by a dog in Midland, TX?
First, seek medical attention immediately. Report the incident to local animal control, document your injuries with photos, and gather the dog owner’s contact information. Then, speak with a Midland dog bite lawyer to learn about your legal options.
Can I sue if a dog bites my child?
Yes. Parents can file a personal injury claim on behalf of a minor child who has been bitten. Children are particularly vulnerable to severe injuries and emotional trauma from dog attacks.
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Texas?
Texas law gives victims two years from the date of the bite to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline can prevent you from recovering compensation.
What if the dog belongs to a friend or neighbor?
You can still pursue a claim. In most cases, their homeowner’s insurance will cover the damages—not the individual personally.
How much does it cost to hire a dog bite attorney?
At Hanna Allen, PLLC, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. Your consultation is free, and there are no upfront costs.
Speak With Our Midland Dog Bite Attorney Today
If you’ve been attacked by a dog in Midland, TX, you deserve justice and compensation for your injuries. The legal team at Hanna Allen, PLLC has extensive experience handling Texas dog bite claims and understands how to navigate the complexities of local and state laws.
Take the next step by calling (432) 220-3331.
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