Whether you adore canines, own a dog, or are terrified of them and avoid them at all costs, you can expect safety when visiting someone who owns a dog or encountering such animals in public. A dog is capable of causing significant property damage and even life-threatening injuries. If you or your child are bitten by a dangerous dog in Texas, it is crucial to have a basic understanding of the applicable laws.
For instance, what does “dangerous” mean according to Texas law regarding dogs? Some statutes on the books define the term in detail, some of which refer to the enclosure where a particular owner keeps a dog. If a dog bites you, it is essential to determine whether a violation of the dangerous dog code has occurred.
WAS THE DOG CONFINED IN A ZONE INTENDED TO PREVENT IT FROM EXITING?
Texas requires owners of dangerous canines to enclose them in sufficiently secure areas to prevent the dog from escaping independently. One may secure an enclosure with fencing or another structure if the dog cannot escape.
IS IT THE LAW OF TEXAS THAT ALL DOGS ARE DANGEROUS?
Under Texas law, it is not the size or breed of your dog that renders it dangerous. Current statutes classify a dog as dangerous if it has attacked someone unprovoked outside of its secure confinement, which the owner believed would prevent the animal from escaping.
If your neighbor possesses a dangerous dog in this state, they must register it with the local animal control agency. The dog must always be on a leash and under its owner’s control. Additionally, the owner of a dangerous dog in Texas must demonstrate financial capability or purchase liability insurance to cover up to $100,000 in damages resulting from dog bites.
YOU MAY REPORT A DOG AND REQUEST AN ENQUIRY
Suppose you have suffered damages at the hands of a dangerous dog and believe that the proprietor has not complied with Texas statutes governing such animals. In that case, you may request that the local animal control authority investigate the incident. In writing, this authority may notify a dog owner that an investigation has determined that the dog poses a hazard to the public.
The proprietor would then be required to comply with all laws regarding dangerous dogs. The local animal control authority may require removing or destroying a hazardous dog in certain circumstances.
WHO PAYS THE COST OF DAMAGES?
A dog owner can be liable for damages in Texas if their dog causes them harm. Dog attacks do not necessarily cause such injuries. For instance, liability laws still apply if a dog attacks you, pushes you down and causes you to sustain injuries.
In the past, recovering dog bite victims frequently sought monetary compensation in court for their losses. Numerous victims have received court-awarded compensation to help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs related to the incident that caused the victim’s injuries.
Texas Laws to Prevent Dog Bites and Attacks
The state of Texas has highly specific rules that govern hazardous pets and dogs deemed aggressive and a public nuisance.
- Aggressive Dogs
An aggressive dog harms another person while on the owner’s property, has exhibited aggressive characteristics that have caused people to worry that it will run away, or has impeded pedestrians in a public space.
- Public Nuisance Dogs
According to the state of Texas dangerous dog legislation, a dangerous or violent dog may be deemed a public nuisance in line with state law. If it is decided after a hearing that the dog is a nuisance to the public, it may be put down.
- Minors with Dangerous Dogs
The parents of a minor who keeps a hazardous dog are in charge and liable for any harm the animal may cause.
Laws Concerning Dog Bites in Texas State
According to Texas state regulations, all pets must be controlled, and owners of dogs and cats are liable for their behavior. Texas state also regards every animal that is not restrained as a stray. A stray dog or cat is subject to being impounded because they are deemed to be a public nuisance.
Contact the Board Certified dog bite lawyers in Austin at Law Office of Matthew Shrum for a free consultation if a dog or a loved one has attacked you. We have a successful track record of assisting clients in obtaining equitable compensation in dog bite injury cases. We are committed to providing each client with individualized service and superior legal knowledge. Contact us as soon as possible to schedule a consultation and discuss your case. Together, we can work to secure the compensation you are entitled to.