Dog bites can lead to more than just physical pain—they can result in costly medical bills, lost income, emotional trauma, and even long-term health problems. When someone else’s dog causes you harm, it’s important to know what legal options you have. Working with a law firm that has experience in these cases is a valuable asset.
At Harrell & Paulson, located in Kaufman, Texas, we’re committed to helping victims get the answers and support they need after a serious dog attack. Dog bite cases in Texas fall under a mix of common law and statutory rules. That means you need someone who can walk you through what to expect and what steps to take if you’ve been bitten.
If you or someone you love has been hurt, we have a personal injury attorney here to help explain your rights and what you can do to hold the responsible party accountable. You don’t have to go through this strenuous legal process alone.
What Texas Law Says About Dog Bites
Texas doesn’t have a specific statute that covers civil liability in dog bite cases. Instead, we follow what’s called the “one bite rule,” which makes the case dependent on whether the dog owner knew the animal had a history of aggression. This rule can make things a little trickier, but it doesn’t mean victims are out of luck.
Courts may also consider whether the owner acted recklessly or failed to follow local leash laws. In many cases, a skilled attorney can build a strong case using circumstantial evidence, witness testimony, or prior complaints—even without a prior bite on record. Here’s what has to be proven to bring a claim forward:
The dog had a history of aggression: The animal had previously bitten someone or shown dangerous behavior.
The owner knew about the aggression: The dog’s prior behavior was known to the person responsible for it.
The owner failed to take precautions: No effort was made to restrain or warn others about the dog.
If these conditions apply, then the owner may be legally responsible for the injuries caused. Even if there’s no known history, a personal injury attorney can explore other legal avenues, such as negligence or local ordinance violations, to pursue compensation.
For example, if the dog was off-leash in an area with strict leash laws, or if the owner failed to properly secure their property, those facts can strengthen your case. Legal responsibility doesn’t always depend on a prior bite—sometimes it comes down to a pattern of careless behavior or disregard for public safety.
Common Injuries From Dog Bites
Not all dog bites are the same. Some result in minor cuts or bruises, while others lead to serious complications that require months—or even years—of recovery. It’s not just the bite itself but the aftermath that can truly affect someone’s quality of life. Here are some injuries we’ve seen in these cases:
Puncture wounds and lacerations: Common injuries from sharp dog teeth breaking the skin.
Broken bones and nerve damage: Severe bites can fracture bones or damage nerves.
Facial injuries in children: Children are more likely to suffer bites to the face.
Even when the physical wounds heal, the emotional scars can last. That’s why it’s so important to take legal action when the injury results in long-term medical care, therapy, or job disruption. According to DogsBite.org, about 12,480 citizens are hospitalized due to dog bite injuries. This statistic highlights the seriousness of these incidents.
What To Do Immediately After a Dog Bite
Your health and safety should always come first. Your number one priority should be seeking out medical support and making sure that you’re healthy and on the path to healing. But after getting medical treatment, there are several steps we recommend to protect your legal rights. Acting quickly can make a big difference if you decide to file a claim.
Get immediate medical attention: Even small wounds can get infected.
Report the bite to authorities: This helps create an official record.
Collect the dog owner’s information: You’ll need their contact and insurance info.
These actions help document your case and give your personal injury attorney the evidence they need to build a strong claim. Don’t wait too long—Texas has a two-year statute of limitations on personal injury cases, including dog bites.
How Liability Works in Dog Bite Cases
Liability in dog bite cases often comes down to two legal theories: strict liability and negligence. Which one applies depends on the situation. In Texas, the courts usually require proof that the owner was careless or failed to control their dog, especially if it had shown aggressive behavior before. Let’s break down the key points that a personal injury attorney will examine:
The dog showed past aggression: Prior incidents help prove the owner’s knowledge.
The owner was aware of the risk: This is key to proving negligence.
The dog was off-leash or unsecured: This may violate local ordinances.
If the answer to these questions is “yes,” the owner is likely liable. Even in cases where the dog had no known history, an attorney may still be able to argue negligence if basic safety precautions weren’t followed.
Types Of Compensation For Which You May Be Eligible
If you’ve been hurt by a dog bite, you may be entitled to compensation for both your financial losses and personal suffering. These damages can help cover the costs of your recovery and account for how the injury has disrupted your life. Here are common categories of compensation we pursue for clients:
Emergency and ongoing medical costs: Includes ER, surgery, and medication.
Physical or emotional rehabilitation: Covers physical therapy and counseling.
Lost wages from time off work: Replaces income lost during recovery.
Every case is different, so it’s important to talk with a personal injury attorney who can give you an honest assessment of what your claim may be worth. At Harrell & Paulson, we don’t just focus on what’s been lost—we focus on helping you get back to where you were before the injury happened.
Why Legal Representation Makes a Difference
Dog bite cases often involve pushback from insurance companies or disputes over liability. That’s why working with an attorney can be so valuable. The right firm will know now how to push back when someone tries to downplay your injuries or shift the blame. Here’s what we handle for our clients:
We collect and preserve evidence: Including records, photos, and official reports.
We speak to witnesses on your behalf: Their statements support your case.
We deal directly with insurers: You won’t face pushback alone.
Our attorneys, C.R. Harrell and David Paulson, have helped countless injury victims across Kaufman and beyond recover damages after dog attacks. You don’t have to deal with the stress of a claim while also trying to heal. We’ll handle the legal side so you can focus on your recovery.
Committed Personal Injury Attorneys
With the right legal help, you can protect your rights and take steps toward real recovery. Our personal injury attorneys at Harrell & Paulson are here to guide you through every part of the process, from the first consultation to the final resolution. Serving Kaufman and nearby cities like Forney, Terrell, and Rockwall, we’re here for you. Contact us at Harrell & Paulson today.
