Austin Dog Bite Injury Lawyer
At Treviño Law, our Austin dog bite lawyers are committed to securing fair compensation for victims of dog attacks in Austin, TX, and surrounding areas. Dog bites can cause severe physical and emotional injuries, particularly for children, with many incidents occurring on the owner’s property. Our experienced attorneys leverage Texas’s one-bite rule and Austin’s vicious dog ordinances to hold negligent owners accountable.
Why Choose Treviño Law for Your Dog Bite Case?
Our Austin dog bite attorneys combine local expertise with a proven track record to deliver results:
- Specialized Knowledge: Deep understanding of Texas dog bite laws and Austin’s animal control ordinances.
- Proven Results: Recovered over $55 million for injured clients, including substantial dog bite settlements.
- Client-Centered Approach: Compassionate support with personalized legal strategies for Austin residents.
Common Causes of Dog Bite Injuries in Austin
Dog attacks often stem from owner negligence. Our Austin dog bite lawyers handle cases involving:
- Unleashed dogs in public spaces like Zilker Park or Barton Springs.
- Failure to restrain vicious dogs, violating Austin’s ordinances.
- Provoked bites due to teasing or mishandling in neighborhoods like East Austin.
- Negligent supervision of dogs around children.
- Lack of proper training or socialization.
We collaborate with medical experts to evaluate injuries and build robust claims for your case.
Understanding Texas Dog Bite Laws
Texas operates under a one-bite rule, established in Marshall v. Ranne (1974), meaning owners may be liable if they knew or should have known their dog was dangerous. Additionally, Austin’s vicious dog ordinance holds owners accountable for unrestrained or aggressive dogs. Our Austin dog bite lawyers focus on:
- Negligence Per Se: Violations of Austin’s leash laws or vicious dog regulations.
- Statute of Limitations: You have two years from the bite date to file a lawsuit in Texas.
- Damages: Compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and scarring.
We ensure compliance with Texas laws to maximize your recovery.
Types of Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bites can result in a range of physical and emotional injuries, including:
- Punctures and lacerations
- Contusions and abrasions
- Bone fractures and crushing injuries
- Infections, such as rabies or bacterial infections
- Neurological damage (loss of feeling)
- Cynophobia (fear of dogs)
- Emotional trauma, including PTSD
Who Is Responsible for a Dog Bite in Austin?
Liability for a dog bite may extend beyond the dog owner. Potentially responsible parties include:
- Property Owners: If the attack occurred on their property and they knew of the dog’s dangerous tendencies.
- Parents of Minor Dog Owners: If the dog owner is a minor, their parents may be held liable.
- Dog Sitters or Walkers: Caretakers may be responsible if they violate local dog restraint laws.
- The Victim (in rare cases): If the victim provoked the dog, trespassed, or committed a crime leading to the attack.
About Jaime Treviño, Your Austin Dog Bite Attorney
Jaime Treviño, founder of Treviño Law, is a dedicated advocate for Austin dog bite victims. After a pivotal case in Bastrop, TX, Jaime shifted from defending corporations to fighting for the injured. A graduate of the University of Texas Law School, he is a Lifetime Member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum. His insider knowledge of defense strategies and courtroom expertise ensure powerful representation. Learn more about Jaime.
What to Do After a Dog Bite in Austin
Protect your claim by taking these steps:
- Seek Medical Care: Get immediate treatment to prevent infections like rabies.
- Report the Incident: Notify Austin Animal Services for an official report.
- Document Evidence: Photograph injuries, the dog, and the scene.
- Collect Witness Details: Gather contact information from bystanders.
- Contact an Austin Dog Bite Lawyer: Reach out to Treviño Law before speaking with insurers.
Client Testimonials
Jaime is a great person, always willing to help
Jaime is a great person, always willing to help with his knowledge and very professional. Without a doubt super recommended!
Catheryn G.
He was so professional
He was so professional, took the time to explain everything to me, and treated me and my family with respect!
Andrea B.
The outstanding result speaks for itself.
Jaime is a great lawyer. I had spoken to other lawyers first but the moment I met him I knew he was the best and would take care of me. The outstanding result speaks for itself.
Edna F.
Highly recommended!
Trusted by the community with a track record of delivery. Highly recommended!
Charles L.
Read all of our client testimonials here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Claims in Austin
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Austin?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for dog bite claims is two years from the incident date. Contact an Austin dog bite lawyer promptly to protect your rights.
Can I sue if the dog had no history of biting?
Yes, you can pursue a negligence claim if the owner failed to exercise reasonable care, such as violating Austin’s leash laws. Our attorneys investigate to build a strong case.
What compensation can I recover from a dog bite in Austin?
You may recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and scarring. Treviño Law evaluates your case to maximize compensation under Texas law.
Will the dog owner’s insurance cover my claim?
Homeowners’ or renters’ insurance may cover dog bite claims, but insurers often minimize payouts. Our Austin dog bite lawyers negotiate aggressively for fair compensation.
How do I prove the dog owner was at fault?
Proving fault requires evidence like incident reports, witness statements, and ordinance violations. Treviño Law works with experts to demonstrate owner negligence.
Contact Our Austin Dog Bite Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one suffered a dog attack in Austin, don’t navigate insurance claims alone. Treviño Law offers free consultations and works on a contingency fee basis—no fees unless we win. Call us at (512) 401-3444 or fill out our online form to schedule your consultation.