Texas Dog Attack Lawyers That Bite Back

We Advocate for Victims of Dog Attacks and Dog Bites

If you or a loved one have been bitten by a dog in Texas, you understand how traumatic and life-altering a dog attack can be. Beyond the initial shock and pain, victims often face serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and emotional scars. You shouldn’t have to carry these burdens alone. Jim Adler & Associates – known as The Texas Hammer – has been fighting for injured Texans since 1973. Our experienced dog bite injury attorneys are ready to help you pursue the compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing.

Dog owners have a responsibility to control and restrain their animals. When they fail in that duty and someone gets hurt, Texas law allows victims to hold them accountable. However, dog bite cases can be legally complex – especially in Texas, which follows a “one bite” rule (more on that below). Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim or even blame you for the attack. This is where an aggressive dog bite lawyer on your side can make all the difference. Jim Adler & Associates brings over 50 years of legal experience, a reputation for aggressive litigation, and a commitment to fighting for maximum compensation for our clients. And we start by offering free consultations, so you can understand your rights and options at no cost.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

A dog’s jaws can inflict serious and sometimes permanent damage. Depending on the size and breed of the dog and the nature of the attack, dog bite injuries can range from puncture wounds to life-threatening trauma. Our attorneys have seen the devastating impact these injuries have on victims and their families. Some common dog bite injuries include:

Puncture Wounds and Lacerations: Dogs have sharp teeth that can puncture the skin deeply. This can result in severe cuts, torn flesh, and bleeding, often requiring stitches or surgery.
Nerve Damage and Muscle Injuries: A deep bite can damage nerves, muscles, and tendons. Victims may experience loss of feeling or function in the affected area, sometimes permanently.
Broken Bones: In a violent dog attack, especially by a large dog, victims might suffer fractured bones. For example, being knocked to the ground can lead to broken arms, wrists, or legs, and bites to the hand can crush or break small bones.
Infections and Disease: Dog bites can introduce bacteria and lead to serious infections like cellulitis. In some cases, bites may risk transmitting diseases such as rabies or tetanus if the dog’s vaccinations are not up to date. Prompt medical treatment is critical to prevent infections.
Scarring and Disfigurement: Bites to the face, arms, or legs can leave significant scars. Victims (especially children) may require plastic surgery or other treatments to reduce disfigurement. Permanent scarring can also lead to emotional trauma and self-consciousness.
Emotional Trauma and PTSD: The psychological impact of a dog attack can be profound. It’s common for victims to develop a lasting fear of dogs, anxiety, nightmares, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a vicious attack. Children are particularly vulnerable to long-term emotional effects.
Wrongful Death: Tragically, some dog attacks are fatal. Texas has seen high numbers of fatal dog maulings in recent years. If a loved one was killed by a dog, family members may pursue a wrongful death claim to seek justice and compensation for their loss.

No matter the type or severity of your injury, if a dog attack caused you harm, you have the right to seek compensation for your damages. Our lawyers understand the medical and financial challenges you face after a dog bite injury, and we work tirelessly to hold the responsible parties accountable.

Texas Dog Bite Laws – Get to Know Your Rights

Navigating the legal landscape after a dog bite is challenging, but knowing Texas dog bite laws can empower you as a victim. Unlike many states, Texas does not have a specific civil statute for dog bite injuries. Instead, Texas follows what is commonly known as the “one bite rule,” grounded in negligence law. Here’s what that means for your case:

The “One Bite” Rule: In Texas, a dog owner can be held liable for an attack if they knew or had reason to know that their dog was dangerous or had vicious propensities. In practical terms, if a dog has bitten or attacked someone before or has a history of aggressive behavior, the owner is expected to take precautions (muzzle, leash, secure fencing, etc.). Failing to do so can make the owner strictly liable for injuries the dog causes. Once that first incident or clear sign of aggression has occurred, the owner is essentially on notice that the dog can cause harm. For any subsequent bite, the owner cannot claim ignorance of the danger.
Negligence for First-Time Bites: What if the dog had never bitten anyone before? Victims can still recover compensation by proving the owner’s negligence. This means showing that the owner failed to act as a reasonable pet owner would under the circumstances. For example, if the owner let the dog run loose in violation of local leash laws or left a gate open, and the dog attacked someone, that irresponsibility can be deemed negligence. In a negligence-based dog bite claim, you generally must prove that the owner did not properly control or restrain the dog, and that this failure directly led to your injuries.
Comparative Negligence in Dog Attacks: Texas follows a comparative negligence (proportionate responsibility) rule. This law can affect your recovery if the insurance company or owner tries to argue that you were partly at fault for the incident. Perhaps the owner claims you provoked the dog or were trespassing at the time of the attack. Under Texas law, if a victim is found to be 51% or more at fault, they cannot recover any compensation. If you are less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages, but your award may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if you were 20% at fault (maybe by ignoring a “Beware of Dog” sign), your compensation would be reduced by 20%. Our attorneys are well-versed in these tactics and will vigorously defend you against unwarranted blame, ensuring the focus remains on the dog owner’s responsibility.
Local Leash Laws and “Dangerous Dog” Regulations: In addition to state law, many Texas cities and counties have leash laws and ordinances aimed at preventing dog attacks. Owners must often keep dogs on a leash or secured within their property. Violating leash laws or failing to follow regulations for a legally declared “dangerous dog” can strengthen a victim’s claim by demonstrating the owner’s negligence or disregard for safety. Our legal team will investigate whether any such violations occurred in your case.
Statute of Limitations: Victims of dog bites in Texas must act within the legal time limit to pursue a claim. In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases — including dog bite injuries — is two years from the date of the attack. This means you generally have up to two years to file a lawsuit against the dog’s owner (or other liable parties). If you fail to file within two years, you could lose your right to seek compensation altogether. Two years might sound like plenty of time, but it can pass quickly, especially when you are focusing on recovery. It’s crucial to consult with a Texas dog bite lawyer as soon as possible after the incident. Early action also helps preserve evidence and witness testimony while it’s fresh.

Understanding these legal principles is important, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Jim Adler & Associates will explain how Texas law applies to your specific situation. We build a case that proves the owner’s liability — whether through the one bite rule or general negligence — so you can recover the damages you’re owed.

Steps to Take After a Dog Attack

A dog attack can leave anyone shaken and unsure of what to do next. Your actions in the hours and days following a dog bite are not only important for your health but also for protecting your legal rights. Here are critical steps to take after a dog attack in Texas:

Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety come first. If you’ve been bitten or knocked down by a dog, get medical care immediately. Even if the wound seems minor, dog bites can cause deep punctures, tearing, and infection. Go to an emergency room or urgent care to have your injuries properly cleaned and treated. Prompt treatment can prevent infections like rabies or bacteria from dog saliva and document the link between the bite and your injuries. Follow all medical advice and keep records of your visits, as these will be important evidence for your claim.
Report the Incident: It’s important to report the dog attack to local authorities as soon as possible. Call the local animal control agency or police department to file an official report about the bite. This serves two purposes: it creates a record of the incident, and it triggers an investigation into the dog and its owner. Animal control may verify the dog’s vaccination records (for rabies risk) and determine if the dog has a history of aggression. In Texas, if you suspect the dog might carry rabies (for example, if it was a stray or its vaccination is unknown), state law requires that you report the bite to the local health authority. An official report can be valuable evidence later when proving your case.
Gather Information and Evidence: If you are able, collect as much information as you can about the attack. Get the dog owner’s name, address, and contact information. If there were witnesses, ask for their names and contact details as well – their statements could be crucial in corroborating your story. Take photographs of your injuries, torn clothing, and the location where the attack happened. If the dog is still present and it’s safe to do so, take a photo of the dog as well. Also, note details about the dog (breed, size, color) and the circumstances (time of day, whether the dog was on a leash or running loose, etc.). The more evidence you preserve, the stronger your case will be. If you cannot gather this information immediately due to your injuries, don’t worry – our legal team can help investigate afterward. Just be sure to contact us quickly so we can get to work preserving evidence.
Contact an Experienced Dog Bite Lawyer: Reach out to a qualified dog bite attorney as soon as possible. The legal process can be complex, and the dog owner’s insurance company may start building a defense right away. By getting Jim Adler & Associates involved early, you gain advocates who will protect your rights and handle communications with insurance adjusters on your behalf. We offer a free consultation, so there’s no risk in speaking with us about your case. We’ll listen to what happened, advise you on the next steps, and begin investigating the incident from a legal standpoint. Remember, there is a two-year time limit to file a claim in Texas, but it’s best not to wait until the deadline. Important evidence can disappear and memories can fade. Calling our Texas dog bite lawyers promptly can significantly improve your chances of a successful outcome.

By following these steps, you not only safeguard your well-being but also lay a strong foundation for a legal claim against the responsible party. Taking swift action can make a big difference in holding the negligent dog owner accountable and recovering the compensation you need for your recovery.

Compensation for Dog Bite Victims in Texas

Victims of dog bites often suffer a wide range of damages – from tangible financial losses to profound personal consequences. Texas law allows you to seek compensation (“damages”) for all losses stemming from a dog attack. At Jim Adler & Associates, our goal is to secure full and fair compensation for everything you’ve endured. Damages in a dog bite injury claim typically include:

Medical Expenses: This covers all past and future medical bills related to your injuries. It includes emergency room treatment, doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rabies shots, and any specialist care you needed. It also covers rehabilitation costs such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling for trauma. If you require future surgeries (for example, to improve scars or reconstruct damaged tissue) or long-term treatment, those projected costs should be included as well.
Lost Wages and Earnings: Many dog bite victims have to miss work during recovery. You can claim compensation for the income lost due to missed days or reduced ability to work. If the injuries are serious enough to impact your ability to earn in the future (for instance, nerve damage in your hand limiting your job function or a lasting disability), you may also recover for loss of earning capacity. Our attorneys may work with economists or vocational experts to calculate the value of your future lost income accurately.
Pain and Suffering: Dog attacks are painful and terrifying experiences. Pain and suffering damages compensate you for the physical pain and discomfort you endured during and after the attack. This category also covers the mental anguish and emotional distress you have suffered. The trauma of being attacked by an animal can lead to anxiety, depression, nightmares, and other psychological impacts. Although these losses don’t come with receipts, they are very real and significant, and Texas law recognizes your right to recover financially for them.
Scarring and Disfigurement: If the dog bite left you with visible scars, permanent marks, or other disfigurement (such as nerve damage that affects mobility or function), you deserve compensation for that lasting impact. Scarring and disfigurement can affect your quality of life, self-esteem, and daily comfort. These damages take into account not just the medical aspect but also how the injury alters your appearance and life going forward.
Disability or Physical Impairment: In severe cases, a dog attack might cause lasting disability — for example, nerve damage leading to loss of use of a limb, or an injury that causes chronic pain and limits your activities. Compensation should cover the life changes and accommodations needed if you’ve sustained any permanent impairment. This could include mobility aids, modifications to your home, or other assistive services.
Emotional Trauma and Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Beyond immediate pain, you might find that the attack has robbed you of the ability to enjoy life as you did before. Perhaps you are now afraid to go on walks in your neighborhood, or you suffer panic attacks when hearing a dog bark. These intangible effects – often termed loss of enjoyment of life – can be factored into your compensation. Additionally, if your relationships suffered (for example, strain on family life or loss of companionship), those are important damages to consider.
Property Damage: If the dog attack also damaged any personal property (for instance, torn clothing, broken eyeglasses, or a smartphone that was dropped and broken during the incident), you can claim the cost of repairing or replacing those items.
Punitive Damages (in rare cases): While not common, Texas courts might award punitive damages if the dog owner’s conduct was grossly negligent or egregious. This could apply if, say, an owner intentionally set a dog on someone or knowingly kept a dog with a violent history and let it run loose. Punitive damages are meant to punish especially bad behavior and deter others, and they would be awarded on top of your compensatory damages above.

Every dog bite case is unique. Some victims might “only” need a few stitches and counseling for anxiety, while others might face lifelong challenges from a devastating mauling. Our attorneys will work closely with you and your doctors to fully document all of your losses. We often compile medical reports, expert evaluations, and personal impact statements to demonstrate to the insurance company (or a jury) just how profoundly this dog attack has affected your life. Our aim is to make sure you are not left footing the bill for someone else’s negligence.

Why Choose Jim Adler & Associates for Your Dog Bite Case?

Choosing the right attorney after a serious dog attack is crucial. At Jim Adler & Associates, we pride ourselves on our proven track record and client-first approach. Here’s why injured Texans turn to “The Texas Hammer” for dog bite injury claims:

Decades of Experience: With nearly 50 years of experience handling personal injury cases in Texas, our firm knows the ins and outs of Texas dog bite law. We have successfully represented countless dog bite victims and understand what it takes to build a strong case for you.
Aggressive Litigation: We are renowned for our aggressive approach in negotiations and in the courtroom. Insurance companies know we won’t settle for less than you deserve. If they won’t offer a fair settlement, our seasoned litigators are fully prepared to take your dog bite lawsuit to trial to fight for justice.
Comprehensive Investigation: Our dog bite attorneys will handle every aspect of your case. We promptly investigate the incident, gather evidence (such as incident reports, medical records, and witness statements), and if needed, consult with experts like medical professionals or animal behavior specialists to strengthen your claim.
No Upfront Costs & Free Consultation: We believe every victim should have access to quality legal representation. Consultations are free, and if you hire us, you pay nothing unless we win your case. This contingency fee arrangement means we are fully invested in your success.
Compassionate Support: Suffering a dog attack is traumatic. Our team not only fights aggressively on your behalf but also treats you with compassion and respect. We’ll keep you informed, answer your questions, and provide support through every step of the legal process.

When you hire Jim Adler & Associates as your dog bite lawyers, you get a dedicated team that will stand up for your rights. We take on the stressful tasks — dealing with insurance adjusters, filing paperwork, meeting court deadlines — so that you can focus on recovering from your injuries.

Contact Jim Adler & Associates – Get a Free Consultation Today

A dog bite can upend your life, but you don’t have to go through this ordeal alone. Jim Adler & Associates is here to help you every step of the way, from initial claim to final resolution. If you or a family member suffered injuries from a dog attack, contact our Texas dog bite lawyers today for a free consultation.

During your free case evaluation, we will listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your legal options in plain language. There is no obligation and no cost to speak with us. If you decide to move forward, you won’t pay us a dime up front – we only get paid if we win compensation for you. This contingency fee promise means you can hire the aggressive, experienced legal team you need without adding any financial stress.

Don’t wait to seek help. The sooner you have our dog bite attorneys fighting in your corner, the sooner we can secure evidence, speak to witnesses, and push the insurance company to do what’s right. Let Jim Adler & Associates put our decades of experience and trial-tested approach to work for you. We are proud to stand up for victims of negligence and have a long history of winning cases against careless dog owners and stubborn insurance companies.

Call us today at 1-800-505-1414 or fill out our online contact form to get started. We’re available 24/7 to take your call because we know accidents don’t wait for business hours. Take action now to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. With Jim Adler & Associates by your side, you can focus on recovery while we handle the rest. We’ll fight tirelessly to obtain justice for you and help you move forward after a dog bite tragedy.

Let “The Texas Hammer” fight for you – schedule your free consultation now and put our powerhouse team to work on your dog bite injury case.