Every day, over 1,000 Americans, many of them children, seek emergency treatment for dog bites. In Dallas alone, the number of dog bite cases has steadily risen alongside the city’s rapid growth, highlighting just how common these attacks are.
If you or someone you love was bitten by a dog, you may be dealing with unexpected medical bills, a painful recovery, missed time from work, or a child who’s now afraid to go outside. These injuries can alter your routine, confidence, and even your sense of safety.
The personal injury lawyers of O’Hare and Koch can help you take legal action against the negligent dog owners, deal with the insurance process, and file litigation for the full value of your claim.
Who Is Liable for a Dog Bite Injury in Texas?
Under Texas law, a dog owner may be held liable if they knew—or should have known—that their animal had previously bitten someone or displayed aggressive behavior. This principle, known as the “one bite rule,” was established in Marshall v. Ranne, 511 S.W.2d 255 (Tex. 1974), and remains central to dog bite liability today.
However, you don’t need proof of a prior bite to pursue compensation. A claim can succeed if it shows the dog owner failed to exercise reasonable care, such as ignoring leash laws, failing to secure the animal, or disregarding prior aggressive behavior.
Additional parties may also be liable:
- Landlords or property managers who allowed a dangerous dog to remain on-site
- Kennels, groomers, or dog walkers who failed to control the animal in their care
- Businesses or facilities where unsafe conditions led to an attack
Building a Strong Claim for Damages With a Dallas Dog Bite Lawyer
Dog bite claims require more than medical records. A strong case must meet the legal standards set by Texas law. To build a successful claim, your attorney must demonstrate one or more of the following:
- The dog had a known history of aggression, and the owner was aware of it (commonly referred to as the “one bite rule”)
- The owner failed to follow local Dallas leash laws, which require dogs to be restrained in public spaces
- The dog was not properly secured or supervised
- The owner ignored prior complaints or warning signs about the dog’s behavior
At O’Hare and Koch, we build strong cases by:
- Gathering photos, video evidence, medical records, and eyewitness statements
- Requesting reports from Dallas Animal Services
- Working with medical experts to determine the full scope of treatment
- Demonstrating leash law violations or past complaints
As your attorneys, we will handle all communications with insurers and push back against attempts to minimize your experience. If the case requires litigation, we are fully prepared to take it to court and seek a favorable outcome.
What Compensation Can You Recover After a Dog Bite Injury?
When someone is injured in a dog attack, the physical recovery is only part of the challenge. Many victims face financial strain, emotional trauma, and long-term effects that disrupt daily life. A successful personal injury claim should account for all of these losses.
Our dog bite attorneys document a full range of recoverable damages, including:
- Medical expenses and future treatment
- Lost wages or reduced earning ability
- Disfigurement and lasting disabilities
- Emotional distress and psychological trauma
- Pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life
Many of the non-economic effects, such as emotional distress and long-term disfigurement, can be even more devastating than the initial medical bills. For real examples of what these cases can yield, view our case results.
What to Do If You’ve Been Bitten by a Dog in Dallas
Dog bite incidents can escalate quickly, especially when they involve children or dogs with a history of aggression. Acting quickly after a dog bite helps you get appropriate treatment and build a strong legal case.
- Seek immediate medical care. Even small punctures can lead to infection or mask internal injuries.
- Report the incident. File a report with Dallas Animal Services. This can confirm the dog’s vaccination status and determine whether it has been previously designated as a dangerous animal.
- Document injuries and the scene. Take photos and videos of the scene immediately and the injuries before and after medical treatment. This shows severity of the injuries, progression of the receovery, as well as and any visible scarring or disfigurement.
- Collect witness information. Bystanders can verify the attack and help establish negligence.
- Preserve medical records. Bills, treatment summaries, and physician notes are essential to prove your damages.
- Speak with a dog bite injury lawyer in Dallas. Working with an attorney is often the most effective way to pursue damages and build a successful case.
Speak With O’Hare and Koch About Your Dallas Dog Bite Case
A dog bite can leave lasting physical and emotional scars. Whether your injuries involve nerve damage, scarring, or psychological trauma, you deserve serious legal representation.
If you were injured by someone’s negligence in Dallas, the attorneys at O’Hare and Koch are ready to help. We provide clear legal guidance, compassionate representation, and a focused strategy to secure the full value of your claim.
Under Texas law, you have a limited time to file a claim. Acting quickly helps preserve evidence and protects your right to recover. You pay no upfront fees, and we don’t get paid unless we recover for you. Contact O’Hare and Koch today to schedule your free consultation.