Dog Bite Injuries

Our Dog Bite Attorneys in DFW

Every year, more than 500,000 people are traumatically bitten by dogs. Though few dog bites prove fatal and most dog bite victims are children. If you or your child have been bitten by a dog; you may be entitled to compensation for the following:

• Medical bills
• Pain and suffering
• Lost Work

Our personal injury Arlington & DFW dog bite attorneys have won compensation in many dog bite personal injury cases.

Dog Bite Personal Injury Liability

There are many factors that go into litigating a dog bite case. Some of which include:

• Dog’s temperament
• Warning signage
• Possible provocation
• Other state laws

The state of Texas follows the “one bite rule”. Under the “one bite rule” liability may be established if:

• The owner knows the dog has attacked before
• The dog bite was caused by negligence on the part of the handler
• The incident was caused by a leash law or animal control law violation
• Or if the handler intentionally caused the dog attack

Though negligence or “negligence per se” can be established depending upon various factors. Perhaps the dog was in an inappropriate setting. Or maybe the handler was violating municipal or county regulations while the attack took place. Establishing liability can be difficult and it is best to have an experienced personal injury attorney on your side.

Dog Bite Accident FAQs 

What should I do immediately after a dog bite in Texas?

• Get medical attention right away, even for minor bites

• Identify the dog’s owner and get their contact information

• Report the incident to local animal control or the police

• Take photos of your injuries and the location of the attack

• Contact the Law Offices of David Kohm to learn your legal options

Can I sue someone if their dog bit me?
Yes. If the dog’s owner was negligent or if the dog had a known history of aggression, you may be entitled to compensation. Texas follows the “one bite rule”, but owners can still be liable even if it was the dog’s first offense under certain conditions.

What kind of compensation can I receive for a dog bite injury?
You may be eligible for compensation for:

• Medical bills and future treatment

• Lost wages

• Pain and suffering

• Permanent scarring or disfigurement

• Psychological trauma

• Rehabilitation or reconstructive surgery costs

What is Texas’s “one bite rule”?
Texas does not have a specific statute for dog bites, but courts often apply the “one bite rule.” This means an owner may be liable if they knew—or should have known—that their dog was dangerous or had acted aggressively in the past.

What if the dog has never bitten anyone before?
You can still potentially pursue a claim if the owner was negligent—such as letting the dog roam freely or failing to control it in public. Negligence-based claims do not require proof of prior aggression.

Do I need a lawyer for a dog bite case in Texas?
Yes. Dog bite cases can be difficult to prove without legal help. Our attorneys can investigate the case, gather evidence, handle negotiations, and fight for full and fair compensation on your behalf.

How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Texas?
The statute of limitations in Texas for personal injury cases, including dog bites, is two years from the date of the incident. Waiting too long can hurt your chances of recovery.

Can I still file a claim if the dog belonged to a friend or family member?
Yes. It’s common for dog bite victims to be injured by dogs they know. In most cases, the claim is filed against the homeowner’s or renter’s insurance—not the individual personally.

What if a child is bitten by a dog?
Children are the most common victims of dog bites. Claims involving minors can include future medical expenses, emotional trauma, and compensation for any permanent injury or scarring.

Why choose the Law Offices of David Kohm for a dog bite case?
With over 25 years of experience, our firm has successfully handled many dog bite cases throughout Texas. We understand how to build strong claims, deal with insurers, and ensure you get the compensation you deserve. We work on contingency—you don’t pay unless we win.

The Law office of David S. Kohm can be contacted online for a free consultation regarding our Arlington & DFW dog bite attorneys or any other of our services.