Austin Dog Bite InjuriesAnimal Attack Injuries

Humans and dogs can form deep bonds based on trust, respect, and mutual affection. But as much as dogs may seem like members of the family, their animal instincts can cause them to turn on people they know.

Dog Bites Are a Common Occurrence

Every year, individuals in Austin, across the state, and throughout the country are victims of dog bites. While more than half occur in the home, dogs belonging to neighbors, friends, or family members can be aggressive as well.  Some of the causes of dog bites include improper yard enclosures and dogs roaming off leash.

Being bitten by a dog is frightening and the ensuing injuries painful.  The costs associated with treating victims can be considerable.

If you are bitten by another person’s dog, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit to compensate you for your losses.

The laws governing dog bites in Texas can be confusing, and the legal process is both complex and time-consuming. Working with an Austin personal injury lawyer experienced with dog bites can help the process proceed smoothly and maximize your settlement.

Contact our personal injury attorney today if you or a family member has suffered a serious dog bite.  We offer all prospective clients a free consultation.  Contact us at (512) 732-2727 to schedule yours and learn how we can help you pursue a settlement.

Evans/Reilley Is the Ideal Firm to Represent You in Your Dog Bite Case

Our Experience, Knowledge, and Compassionate Approach to Service Position Us Well to Serve You

Dog bite cases fall under the umbrella of personal injury. Yet, not all Austin personal injury attorneys are the same. You want to work with a professional who is experienced in managing dog bite cases, has the appropriate knowledge to positively impact your case, and whose approach to service satisfies your needs.  Time and time again, those injured in dog bite accidents reach out to the team at Evans/Reilley for assistance.  Consider why:

• Experience: Led by Chip Evans, our firm has more than two decades of hands-on experience in personal injury law, including representing those who have been injured in dog bite accidents.
• Knowledge: We are well-versed in personal injury law and the workings of insurance companies. Additionally, we have developed strong professional relationships with all of the participants in the Austin legal community.
• Service Approach: Our well-honed approach to serving our clients focuses on compassionate and responsive communication and attention to detail.

Perhaps the greatest testament to the service we provide are the testimonials of past clients. We are grateful for those who have taken the time to share their experiences with us, and we are committed to maintaining this high level of service for all whom we represent.

In every case, we aim to exceed our client’s expectations as we strive to maximize their compensation and minimize their aggravation.  Finally, in all circumstances, we offer a “no-fee guarantee.”  This means that unless we win your case, you do not owe us any compensation.  Thus, there is no risk in reaching out to us to see how we could impact your case.  Call us today to learn what we can do for you.

How We Handle Dog Bite Cases

Managing the Legal Process on Your Behalf

Dog bite cases require a great deal of time and attention to resolve. At Evans/Reilley our team knows the steps to prove negligence and get compensation. As your Austin dog bite injury attorney, we will assume responsibility for the entirety of the legal process.  Count on us to:

• Gain an understanding of the incident.
• Investigate the dog bite, taking time to pay attention to all of the contributing factors.
• Review all documents, including medical records, police reports, and witness statements.  We will make sure to meet with witnesses personally to ensure we have all of the information we need.
• Identify and substantiate the totality of your injuries, physical and emotional, and the impact it has had on your life.
• Communicate actively with you, opposing counsel, and the insurance company representatives.
• Prove negligence.
• Negotiate a settlement.
• Litigate on your behalf.

Because we handle all of the details, you can focus on your recovery and return to your everyday life.  We strongly believe that another person’s negligence in caring for their dog should not be your responsibility.  We are ready to go to work for you immediately.

Facts Regarding Dog Bites

Dog Owners’ Legal Obligations in Texas

Owning a dog in Texas is a privilege that comes with great responsibility.  In fact, Texas law states that an owner who does not secure his dog could be guilty of criminal negligence if the dog leaves the property and attacks someone.

The Texas “one bite rule” means dog owners cannot be held liable the first time their dog bites someone. But if their dog has a history of aggression of which they are aware, and they do not act responsibly to protect others, they can be held responsible.

On the other hand, negligent dog owners can be held liable for their actions or inactions. So, if you were bitten by a dog because of the negligent actions or inactions of its owner, you may be able to collect damages by filing a personal injury lawsuit. The team at Evans/Reilley is well-versed in proving negligence and managing all of the steps that comprise appropriate legal action. They will be sure to file all paperwork within the statute of limitations.

Children Are Particularly at Risk

Because children may not understand how their actions threaten or frighten dogs, and because they may not realize that their family dog is more tolerant and forgiving than dogs they encounter in their neighborhood, they are especially at risk for dog bite injuries.

In fact, children ages 5 to 9 have the highest rate of dog bite incidents.  Many of these result in the need for medical care, including stitches and medication for infection.  Approximately 50 percent of children with dog bites end up with scars.  In some rare cases, these incidents can also be fatal.

The medical and emotional costs associated with dog bite injuries to children are considerable.  Many require surgery to address scarring; and emotional issues like anxiety, stress, and PTSD are common.

If a child in your family has suffered from a serious dog bite, you could be faced with extensive medical bills for surgery and long-term care. When an irresponsible dog owner is to blame for those injuries, you may be entitled to compensation that can help you take care of your child. Evans/Reilley can help you pursue the legal action necessary to effect a settlement.

Dog Bites Can Result in Illness

It is important to understand that illness, in addition to injury, is a very real potential result of being bitten by a dog.  Dog bites can become infected, and some dogs carry illnesses and diseases that are extremely harmful to humans. Anytime a person suffers a dog bite that breaks the skin, it’s wise to seek medical attention right away. Rabies and MRSA are two illnesses that those who have been bitten by a dog should be concerned about.

• Rabies:  This disease, transmitted by strays or unvaccinated animals, can be fatal to humans. Initial symptoms may include vomiting, headache, trouble swallowing, hallucinations, and partial paralysis. A dog can be tested for rabies, but when a victim can’t find the dog after being bitten, it’s best to seek medical treatment immediately so a doctor can begin the series of shots that keep rabies from progressing.
• MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus):  This dangerous bacteria  can cause skin, lung, and urinary tract infections in people. Dogs may carry this bacteria but be unaffected by it. In some people, MRSA can spread to the bloodstream or lungs and cause life-threatening infections.

These are just two issues those bitten by a dog may need to manage, and the associated costs can be considerable. Your Evans/Reilley dog bite attorney will make sure to take into account any illness resulting from your dog bite when calculating and substantiating the settlement they request on your behalf.

Contact Evans/Reilley Today to Help with Your Dog Bite Personal Injury Case

We  Manage the Road to Recovery

Dog bites can cause serious injuries, disfigurement, and lifelong emotional trauma. When another person’s animal is responsible for those injuries, you may be entitled to compensation by filing a personal injury lawsuit.

If you or someone you love has been bitten by a dog and sustained injuries, contact the personal injury dog bite attorneys at Evans/Reilley at (512) 732-2727.  We are well-versed in managing dog bite cases and are ready to assume responsibility for overseeing your case.  Rest assured we will take our time to fully investigate all aspects of the incident. Additionally, we will make sure to account for all of your injuries and losses. It is important to consider every detail.

We aim to settle your case out of court but will never accept a settlement without your full support. Our team is ready to litigate on your behalf, if necessary.

Help us leverage the asset of time by contacting us immediately. We are ready to learn more about your situation and go to work on your behalf. One of the pillars on which our firm was founded is that those whose negligent behavior or inaction results in harm to another should be held responsible. Dog ownership is a privilege that comes with responsibility. Both should be taken seriously.