Speak With A Lancaster Dog Bite Lawyer Who Can Help You Seek Justice

Dog bites are more than just painful injuries—they can result in infections, scarring, psychological trauma, and steep medical expenses. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Lancaster, TX, knowing your legal options can make a significant difference in your recovery. At Allbee Law Firm, we’re here to help you understand your rights and pursue full compensation for your injuries.

For immediate help, call Allbee Law Firm at (972) 848-4848. We offer a free consultation and only get paid if we win your case.

What Should You Do After A Dog Bite In Lancaster?

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

After a dog bite, your health should be your top priority. Even small puncture wounds can lead to infections or more serious complications if left untreated. Immediate medical care not only protects your health but also creates documentation essential to building a strong dog bite case.

Report The Incident To Animal Control Or The Police

It’s critical to file a report with animal control or the local police. Reporting the dog bite in Lancaster ensures the incident is officially documented and helps authorities determine if the dog poses a danger to others. The report can also serve as key evidence when pursuing compensation.

Document The Incident And Injuries

Take photographs of your injuries, the location where the bite occurred, and—if possible—the dog involved. Collect names and contact details for any witnesses. All of this information will strengthen your claim and help our attorneys support your side of the story.

Understanding Dog Bite Laws In Texas

Texas Follows The “One Bite Rule”

Texas is often described as a “one bite rule” state. This means that a dog owner may not be held liable the first time their dog bites someone unless it can be proven that they knew the dog’s aggressive tendencies. However, if the dog has previously bitten someone or displayed dangerous behavior, strict liability may apply.

Negligence Also Applies In Dog Bite Claims

Notably, Texas also allows victims to seek compensation by proving negligence. This means that even if the dog had never bitten before, you may still have a valid claim if the owner failed to exercise reasonable care, such as letting the dog roam without a leash or ignoring signs of aggression.

Lancaster-Specific Ordinances Could Impact Your Claim

Lancaster has animal control ordinances that can strengthen your case. For example, leash laws and dangerous dog designations can be used to prove negligence or prior knowledge. Our personal injury law firm is familiar with these local laws and how they influence the outcome of dog bite cases.

When Is A Dog Owner Liable For A Dog Bite?

Proving Negligence Or Dangerous Propensity

To hold a dog owner accountable, you must prove either that the owner knew the dog had a tendency to bite or that the owner acted negligently. This could include allowing the dog off-leash in public, ignoring warning signs of aggression, or failing to secure the animal in a yard or home.

Common Defenses Dog Owners Use

Dog owners often try to shift blame by claiming that the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing. While these defenses can affect liability, they don’t automatically eliminate your right to compensation. We’ll thoroughly investigate your case to determine whether these claims hold up under Texas law.

Legal Challenges If The Dog Is A Stray

If the dog that bit you is a stray and the owner can’t be identified, pursuing compensation becomes extremely difficult. Unfortunately, you can’t hold someone liable simply because a stray dog bit you on their property.

For a claim to succeed, you must prove that a person or entity had control over the dog and knew—or should have known—that it was dangerous. If no owner can be found, and there’s no evidence a property owner was aware of the dog or had any responsibility for it, there may not be a viable party to hold legally accountable.

Common Injuries Caused By Dog Bites

Physical Injuries Can Be Severe

Dog bites often cause deep lacerations, puncture wounds, torn tendons, and infections. Some victims may require stitches, reconstructive surgery, or even skin grafts. Children and the elderly are especially vulnerable to more serious injuries during animal attacks.

Long-Term Psychological Trauma

Being attacked by a dog can leave more than just physical scars. Victims often experience anxiety, nightmares, and a fear of dogs long after the incident. In some cases, therapy or counseling is required, adding to the financial burden.

Medical Bills And Lost Wages Add Up Quickly

Beyond emergency room visits and follow-up appointments, victims of dog bites may miss work or lose their ability to earn an income. We pursue compensation for your injuries, including medical bills and lost wages, so that you can focus on healing.

How Much Compensation Can You Get For A Dog Bite?

Medical Expenses And Future Care

Dog bite victims are entitled to compensation for medical-related costs. This includes ER visits, medications, surgeries, and future care such as physical therapy or psychological counseling. Keeping detailed records of your treatment helps us build a strong claim.

Lost Wages And Impact On Earning Capacity

Injuries that force you to take time off work—or limit your ability to perform your job—can result in significant financial strain. We include lost income and diminished earning capacity when calculating compensation.

Pain And Suffering And Emotional Distress

Dog bites can lead to immense emotional distress and reduced quality of life. Compensation for pain and suffering recognizes the psychological trauma that often accompanies bite injuries, especially for victims who suffer permanent disfigurement or emotional scars.