While most dogs are friendly companions, some can pose a threat through aggressive behavior. No matter the size of the dog, any attack can lead to severe injuries including major wounds, broken bones, nerve damage, brain and spine injuries, and more. Even seemingly minor wounds can become infected and lead to serious medical problems if untreated. After an attack, you may be left with psychological trauma, including anxiety and post-traumatic stress. No matter the severity of the dog bite, after you seek medical attention, you should contact a personal injury lawyer who will learn the details of the attack and help determine whether you can pursue a personal injury suit.
Seek Medical Attention After a Dog Attack
After a bite, you should clean the wound, apply antibiotic cream, and cover it in a sterile bandage. More serious wounds require immediate medical attention. However, for any bite, medical professionals recommend seeing a doctor within eight hours in order to have the bite treated and to prevent infection. About 50 percent of dog bites transmit some type of bacteria, so the doctor will likely clean the wound again and then provide any additional antibiotic treatment, especially for those with diabetes or who are immunocompromised and have a higher risk of infection. Depending on your vaccination history, you may receive a tetanus booster.
Compensation for Dog Bites in Texas
You may be entitled to compensation if you have been injured in a dog attack. Under Texas law, dog owners can be held financially liable when:
- The dog has shown previous aggressive behavior towards people
- The victim was on public property or was permitted to be on private property. In other words, they were not trespassing.
- The dog owner did not control their dog, which lead to the attack
Through a personal injury claim, you may be entitled to compensation for your past and future medical bills, lost time away from work while recovering from your injuries, pain and suffering, and decreased quality of life. If your injuries are severe enough that they impact your ability to secure or keep employment, you may be entitled to compensation for your future earning potential.
Contact a Houston Dog Bite Lawyer
At Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec, we know that the long-term impacts of a dog bite can go beyond the physical pain. Our Harris County personal injury lawyer will help you pursue the compensation that you deserve. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, you should treat the injury, seek medical attention, then contact an experienced personal injury attorney who can help determine if you may be entitled to receive financial compensation from the dog’s owner. Contact us today by calling 281-643-2000 and we can schedule your free consultation.
Sources:
https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/HS/htm/HS.822.htm
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/if-a-dog-bites-you-do-these-7-things-now/
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