If you or your child has been attacked by a dog in Houston, you may be entitled to significant compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages. Texas law holds dog owners responsible when their negligence leads to an attack, and you should not have to bear the financial burden of someone else’s failure to control their animal.
At Varghese Summersett, our Houston dog bite lawyers understand the physical and emotional trauma that follows an animal attack. We fight aggressively against insurance companies that try to minimize your injuries or deny your claim altogether. With offices across Texas and a team of more than 70 attorneys and legal professionals, we have the resources to take on any case and the experience to win.
Call (281) 805-2220 for a free consultation with our Houston dog bite attorney.
Common Questions After a Dog Bite in Houston
Dog attacks happen suddenly and leave victims with urgent questions about their rights. Here are the answers to the most common concerns we hear from clients:
Who Is Liable for a Dog Bite in Texas?
In Texas, a dog owner can be held liable for a bite if they knew (or should have known) that their dog had dangerous tendencies, or if they were negligent in controlling their animal. This differs from “strict liability” states where owners are automatically responsible for any bite.
To recover compensation, you typically need to prove one of the following: the dog had previously bitten someone or acted aggressively, the owner violated a local leash law or ordinance, or the owner failed to use reasonable care to prevent the attack.
What If the Dog Had Never Bitten Anyone Before?
Contrary to popular belief, Texas does not give dogs “one free bite.” Even if the dog had never attacked anyone before, the owner can still be held liable if they were negligent. For example, if a dog was running loose in violation of Houston’s leash ordinances, or if the owner failed to secure a gate, these failures can establish liability regardless of the dog’s prior behavior.
Can I Sue a Landlord for a Tenant’s Dog Bite?
Yes, in certain circumstances. Landlords who know about a dangerous dog on their property and fail to take action can be held liable under premises liability theories. This is especially relevant in apartment complexes where landlords have the authority to restrict or remove dangerous animals.
Types of Compensation Available in Houston Dog Bite Cases
Dog bite injuries often require extensive medical treatment, and the financial impact can be devastating. Our Houston dog bite lawyers work to recover every dollar you’re entitled to, including:
Medical Expenses
Emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, prescription medications, and ongoing treatment costs. Dog bites frequently cause infections, nerve damage, and scarring that require multiple procedures to address. We pursue compensation for both current and future medical needs.
Lost Wages and Earning Capacity
If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover the income you’ve lost. For severe injuries that cause permanent limitations, we also pursue damages for your reduced earning capacity over your lifetime.
Pain and Suffering
The physical pain from a dog attack is just the beginning. Many victims experience lasting psychological trauma, including fear of dogs, nightmares, and anxiety. Texas law allows you to recover damages for this physical and emotional suffering.
Scarring and Disfigurement
Dog bites often leave permanent scars, especially when they occur on the face, hands, or other visible areas. These damages compensate you for the physical and emotional impact of living with disfigurement.
Worried about medical bills piling up? Call us today for a free case evaluation. We don’t get paid unless you win.
Texas Dog Bite Laws You Need to Know
Understanding Texas law is essential to protecting your rights after a dog attack. Here are the key legal principles that govern dog bite cases in Houston:
The “One Bite” Rule and Negligence
Under Texas common law, dog owners can be held liable under two main theories. First, if the owner knew or should have known their dog was dangerous (based on prior bites, aggressive behavior, or breed-specific tendencies). Second, if the owner was negligent in controlling the dog, such as letting it run loose or failing to properly secure their property.
Texas also has a specific statute addressing dangerous dogs. Under Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 822, owners of dogs that have been officially declared “dangerous” face strict requirements for containment and insurance. Violations of these requirements can establish liability and may result in criminal charges against the owner.
Houston and Harris County Leash Laws
Houston Municipal Code requires dogs to be restrained when outside the owner’s property. When an owner violates this ordinance and their dog attacks someone, that violation is strong evidence of negligence. Our attorneys use these local ordinances to build compelling cases against negligent dog owners.
Statute of Limitations
In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the dog bite to file a lawsuit. Waiting too long can permanently bar your claim, so it’s essential to speak with an attorney as soon as possible. Learn more about the statute of limitations for personal injury in Texas.
How Fault and Liability Work in Texas Dog Bite Cases
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which can affect your recovery if the insurance company claims you were partially at fault for the attack.
Comparative Negligence
Under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 33.001, if you are found to be more than 50 percent responsible for the incident, you cannot recover any compensation. If you are 50 percent or less at fault, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of responsibility.
Insurance companies often try to blame the victim by claiming they provoked the dog, trespassed on private property, or ignored warning signs. Our attorneys know how to counter these tactics and protect your right to full compensation.
Who Can Be Held Responsible?
Depending on the circumstances, multiple parties may share liability for a dog attack:
- The dog’s owner or keeper
- Property owners or landlords who knew of the dangerous animal
- Dog walkers, pet sitters, or others entrusted with the animal’s care
- Businesses that allow dogs on their premises without proper precautions
Our investigation identifies every potentially liable party to maximize your recovery.
What Your Dog Bite Case May Be Worth
The value of a dog bite claim depends on several factors specific to your situation. While no attorney can guarantee a particular outcome (past results do not guarantee future outcomes), these factors typically affect case value:
Severity of Physical Injuries
Deep puncture wounds, nerve damage, broken bones, and injuries requiring surgery are worth more than minor bites. Attacks involving the face, hands, or joints often result in higher compensation due to the complexity of treatment and lasting impact.
Permanent Scarring or Disfigurement
Visible scars, especially on the face, significantly increase case value. Juries understand the lifelong emotional impact of living with disfigurement, particularly for children.
Age of the Victim
Children are the most common victims of serious dog attacks, and child injury cases often result in higher compensation because of the lasting psychological impact and the years they will live with the consequences.
Psychological Trauma
Post-traumatic stress, anxiety, fear of dogs, and other psychological conditions can dramatically affect your quality of life. Documenting this trauma through treatment records strengthens your claim.
Insurance Coverage Available
Most dog bite claims are paid through the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. The policy limits affect how much compensation is realistically available. Our attorneys identify all potential sources of recovery.
Not sure what your case is worth? Schedule a free consultation and we’ll evaluate your claim at no cost.
The Dog Bite Claims Process in Houston
After a dog attack, the path to compensation involves several critical steps. Here’s what to expect when you work with our Houston dog bite lawyers:
Immediate Investigation
We act quickly to preserve evidence before it disappears. This includes photographing your injuries, documenting the scene, identifying witnesses, and obtaining records about the dog’s history. In Houston and Harris County, animal control records and prior incident reports can be crucial to your case.
Medical Documentation
We work with your medical providers to fully document your injuries, treatment, and prognosis. For serious injuries, we consult with plastic surgeons, neurologists, or psychological experts who can testify about your long-term needs.
Demand and Negotiation
Once we understand the full extent of your damages, we present a comprehensive demand to the insurance company. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who know how to counter lowball offers and push for fair compensation.
Litigation When Necessary
If the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial. Cases in Harris County are filed at the Harris County Civil Courthouse in downtown Houston. Our trial experience gives us leverage in negotiations because insurance companies know we’re not afraid to go to court.
Why Insurance Companies Fight Dog Bite Claims
Insurance companies are in business to make money, not to pay claims. After a dog attack, you can expect the insurer to use various tactics to minimize or deny your claim.
Common Insurance Company Tactics
Insurers often argue that you provoked the dog, that you were trespassing, or that the owner had no reason to know the dog was dangerous. They may pressure you to give a recorded statement hoping you’ll say something that hurts your case. They may also delay the process hoping you’ll accept a lowball offer out of financial desperation.
How We Fight Back
Our attorneys handle all communication with the insurance company so you’re protected from these tactics. We gather evidence that proves the owner’s liability, document your damages thoroughly, and aggressively pursue the full compensation you deserve.
What to Expect From Varghese Summersett
When you hire our firm for your Houston dog bite case, you get more than just a lawyer. You get a team committed to fighting for you.
We start with a free, no-obligation consultation where we evaluate your case and explain your options. If we take your case, you pay nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we only get paid if we recover compensation for you.
Our Houston personal injury lawyers are backed by a team of more than 70 legal professionals across four Texas offices. We have the resources to investigate your case thoroughly, hire expert witnesses when needed, and take your case to trial if the insurance company won’t pay fair value.
Throughout the process, we keep you informed about your case status and answer your questions promptly. We understand that a dog attack has disrupted your life, and we work to resolve your case as efficiently as possible while still maximizing your recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions About Houston Dog Bite Cases
What should I do immediately after a dog bite?
Seek medical attention right away, even if the wound seems minor. Dog bites carry a high risk of infection. Report the incident to Houston Animal Control or Harris County Animal Services. Take photos of your injuries, the location, and the dog if possible. Get the owner’s contact and insurance information, and gather witness names and contact details. Then call an attorney before speaking with any insurance company.
How long do I have to file a dog bite lawsuit in Texas?
Texas law gives you two years from the date of the attack to file a lawsuit. However, the sooner you contact an attorney, the better. Evidence fades, witnesses forget details, and waiting too long can weaken your case.
What if the dog owner doesn’t have insurance?
If the owner lacks homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, collecting compensation becomes more difficult but not impossible. In some cases, other parties (such as landlords or businesses) may share liability. We evaluate all potential sources of recovery during your free consultation.
Can I still recover if I was partially at fault?
Yes, as long as you were not more than 50 percent responsible for the incident. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Insurance companies often exaggerate victim fault to reduce payouts, which is why having an experienced attorney is so valuable.
How much does it cost to hire a Houston dog bite lawyer?
We handle dog bite cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win. There are no upfront costs or hourly fees. Our fee comes as a percentage of your recovery, so we’re motivated to get you the highest compensation possible.
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A dog attack can change your life in an instant. Physical injuries, emotional trauma, and mounting medical bills create stress that compounds with each passing day. You don’t have to face this alone. The Houston dog bite lawyers at Varghese Summersett are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call (281) 805-2220 today for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to take your call.
