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If a dog feels frightened or threatened, they may lash out and bite a nearby person. This often occurs when the owner of the animal doesn't properly restrain them, which can make them liable for the damages. If a dog hurts you, a personal injury attorney can help you file a claim to receive compensation. Here is a brief overview about the related injuries, as well as the compensation you may receive after filing a lawsuit.

What Are the Different Types of Injuries?

While a bite is the most common issue, a dog could cause physical harm in other ways. For example, you may have bruises, deep cuts, abrasions, head injuries, and bone fractures if a large dog knocks you over or pins you down. A canine's actions could also indirectly cause injuries, such as if they chase something in the street and a motorist swerves or stops short, leading to an accident.

Dog-related injuries can affect both your physical and mental well-being. For example, you may need surgery and physical therapy to recover from the incident. Significant injuries can even lead to permanent disfigurement and physical impairment, which could affect your ability to work and earn a living.

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The physical toll of the injuries could also trigger depression and anxiety. After an issue with a canine, you may develop a fear of dogs or experience trouble sleeping, persistent bad memories, and other symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.

How Can You Get Compensation?

Consulting with a personal injury attorney is the first step to pursuing payment after an accident, as they can explain the state's laws regarding dog-related incidents. For example, Texas follows the “one-bite” rule, which means a dog owner isn't liable the first time their animal injures someone. The owner is considered negligent when they fail to prevent subsequent incidents, allowing the victim to request compensation from the dog owner or their insurer. If the parties cannot reach a settlement, an injured person can file a civil lawsuit. 

A judge may award compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain, and emotional distress. To receive damages, you must prove the dog owner was aware their animal hurt someone in the past. You must also prove the owner did not use reasonable care to control the animal's actions, which led to your injuries.

 

If you were hurt in a dog-related incident, contact Reed & Terry LLP in Sugar Land, TX. With over 100 years of combined experience, these personal injury attorneys file claims for clients in Harris and Fort Bend counties who were hurt in car accidents, medical device malfunctions, and other events brought on by negligence of individuals. Visit them online for more information about their services, and call (281) 491-5000 to schedule a consultation.

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