-When a Bite Changes Everything
Dogs are loyal, loving companions for millions of families, but even well-behaved dogs can bite under the wrong circumstances. Each year in the United States, roughly 4.5 million people are bitten or attacked by dogs, and many of those incidents require medical care ranging from stitches to surgery.
Dog bites often cause more than immediate pain. Victims may face infections such as rabies, tetanus, or MRSA, along with permanent scarring or emotional trauma. Even bites that seem minor at first can worsen without prompt treatment. A San Antonio dog bite lawyer can help you understand your options, protect your rights, and pursue compensation while you focus on healing.
Why Choose DJC Law for a Dog Bite Case?
Recovering after a dog attack can feel overwhelming, especially when medical bills, missed work, and insurance questions start piling up. DJC Law helps dog bite victims across San Antonio navigate the legal process with clarity and care.
When you work with our team, you get:
- Focused personal injury representation with experience handling dog bite and dog attack claims
- A proven history of results, helping clients recover compensation for medical care, lost income, and long-term needs
- No upfront costs, because we work on a contingency fee basis—you only pay if we recover compensation
Our goal is to make the process easier while protecting your ability to recover fully.
When a Dog Bites
Under Texas law, a dog owner may be held legally responsible for injuries caused by their animal, depending on the circumstances. Liability often turns on factors such as whether the dog was restrained, properly supervised, or previously known to be aggressive.
While some precautions may reduce risk, including avoiding unfamiliar dogs and recognizing warning signs like stiff posture or growling, many attacks happen suddenly and without warning. When that occurs, speaking with a San Antonio dog bite attorney early can help preserve evidence and clarify your legal options.
Understanding the Texas “One Bite Rule”
Texas follows what is commonly known as the “one bite rule,” which can limit liability for a dog’s first known attack. However, this rule has important exceptions. A dog owner may still be held responsible if:
- The dog had a known history of aggressive behavior
- Leash laws or local ordinances were violated
- The dog was left unsupervised with children or vulnerable individuals
- The owner failed to use reasonable care to control the dog
A knowledgeable dog bite lawyer can evaluate whether an exception applies and determine whether the owner may be held accountable.
The Importance of Medical Care and Documentation
Dog bite injuries can be deceptive. What looks like a small puncture wound may require stitches, surgery, or treatment for infection. Emotional trauma is also common, particularly in children.
After a dog bite, it is important to:
- Seek medical care right away
- Clean and document the wound
- Photograph injuries and the scene
- Obtain witness information
- Report the incident to animal control or law enforcement
Medical records and official reports often play a key role in building a strong case with a dog bite attorney.
Dog Bite Statistics
Dog attacks remain a serious public safety issue in the United States:
- Approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur annually, with nearly 1 in 5 becoming infected
- Over 1,000 people require emergency care for dog bites each day
- More than 28,000 people undergo reconstructive surgery each year due to dog bite injuries
These numbers highlight why dog bite claims should be taken seriously, even when injuries are not immediately life-threatening.
Dog Breeds Most Often Involved in Serious Attacks
Based on reported fatal attacks from 2005 to 2017, the following breeds appear most frequently in severe incidents:
- Pit bull terrier
- Rottweiler
- German shepherd
- Husky
- Alaskan malamute
Any dog can bite, and liability depends on owner behavior and circumstances—not breed alone. These statistics simply reflect trends seen in reported cases.
Contact a San Antonio Dog Bite Lawyer at DJC Law
Many dog bite victims hesitate to take legal action because they know the dog owner. In reality, most claims are handled through homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, not paid personally by the owner. Filing a claim can help cover:
- Emergency and follow-up medical care
- Surgery, therapy, and scar treatment
- Emotional and psychological support
- Lost wages and future medical needs
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, a San Antonio dog bite lawyer at DJC Law is ready to help you understand your rights and pursue fair compensation.
Call (210) 220-2222 for a free consultation or visit us at:
DJC Law – San Antonio
2374 E. Southcross Blvd
San Antonio, TX 78223
We’re here to help you take the next step forward with confidence.
