Corpus Christi Dog Bite Attorney

Corpus Christi Dog Bite Claim Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do Immediately After a Dog Bite?

After a dog bite:

• Seek medical attention right away to treat wounds and reduce the risk of infection.
• Report the incident to Corpus Christi Animal Care Services to create an official record.
• Photograph your injuries, the location, and the dog if it’s safe to do so.
• Collect contact information for any witnesses.

Then contact a dog bite attorney at our firm to understand your legal options before evidence is lost or deadlines approach.

How Do I Report a Dog Bite in Corpus Christi?

Report the incident to Corpus Christi Animal Care Services. Under Texas law, the agency can require a quarantine period for the animal, typically 10 days, and may document vaccination information. That report creates an official record of the incident that may support your claim. You should also keep copies of any documentation the agency provides.

Does a Dog Need to Have Bitten Someone Before for the Owner to Be Responsible?

Not necessarily. A prior bite is one way to show an owner knew about the dog’s dangerous tendencies, but it’s not the only path to liability. A negligence theory can apply when an owner failed to use reasonable care to control the animal, regardless of prior incidents. Texas law also addresses dangerous-dog determinations that can affect owner responsibilities. The facts of each situation determine which theories may apply.

What Evidence Can Help Support a Dog-Bite Claim?

Useful evidence can include:

• Photographs of injuries and the scene
• Medical records
• Animal-control reports
• Torn clothing
• Witness statements
• Documentation of prior complaints about the dog
• Records of income lost due to the injury

Preserving this material early can help demonstrate both liability and the extent of your losses.

How Long Do I Have to File a Dog-Bite Injury Lawsuit in Texas?

Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Section 16.003 generally sets a two-year limitations period for personal injury claims, measured from the date the cause of action accrues. Exceptions exist, including claims involving minors, and individual accrual rules can affect the deadline in a specific case. Because waiting can limit your options, it’s worth speaking with a dog bite lawyer sooner rather than later.

What Types of Losses May Be Included in a Dog-Bite Claim?

A claim may seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, emotional distress, scarring, and disfigurement. Future care costs may be included when supported by medical evidence. The specific losses available depend on the nature and severity of the injuries and the facts of the case.

Can a Dog-Bite Claim Involve Homeowners or Renters Insurance?

It can. Many homeowners and renters insurance policies include coverage for dog-bite liability, and identifying applicable coverage is an important part of evaluating a claim. The specific policy terms and the circumstances of the incident determine whether coverage applies. We review available insurance as part of our initial case assessment.

How Can Gonzales Law Firm Help with a Dog-Bite Case?

We handle dog bite cases from initial consultation through resolution. That includes investigating the incident, collecting evidence, identifying responsible parties, evaluating insurance coverage, and communicating with insurers. When a fair settlement isn’t offered, we prepare the case for litigation in a Nueces County court. We offer free consultations, work on a contingency-fee basis, and provide bilingual service in English and Spanish.