San Antonio Dog Bite Attorneys

Fighting for Dog Bite Victims in Bexar County

Dog bites are both frightening and dangerous, often causing serious health risks and lasting trauma. A dog's teeth can create deep puncture wounds, leading to major bleeding and potential infections. The psychological effects of a dog attack can result in ongoing fear and anxiety around animals.

If you have been bitten by a dog, you may have legal options for seeking compensation for your injuries. At The Packard Law Firm, our San Antonio dog bite attorneys provide personalized legal support and guidance to injury victims. Our team is familiar with the specifics of Texas dog bite laws and can advise whether you have grounds for a personal injury claim. The aftermath of a dog bite can be painful and stressful, but our attorneys work to get you the compensation you deserve, so you can focus on your recovery. With hundreds of millions of dollars recovered in settlements and verdicts, our experience as San Antonio dog bite lawyers makes a difference for our clients.

After a dog bite incident, it is important to act quickly to gather proper documentation. In Bexar County, this includes filing a report with San Antonio Animal Care Services, seeking medical treatment at University Hospital or another local facility, and keeping records of all expenses and injuries. Taking these steps helps protect your health and strengthens your claim if you need to pursue a case with a dog bite attorney in San Antonio. We guide you at every step—from the first consultation to potential courtroom proceedings—so you feel supported and informed throughout your recovery.

Our San Antonio dog bite attorneys are ready to put our generations of experience to work for you. Call (210) 972-8918 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation today.

Understanding Dog Bite Laws in Texas

Texas dog bite laws are complex because the state follows a “one-bite” rule. This means an owner is strictly liable for a dog bite injury only if they knew the dog was dangerous. If the dog has never bitten anyone before, the owner might not be automatically liable due to lack of prior knowledge.

After a dog bite in San Antonio, determining whether your case falls under the “one-bite” rule or is based on negligence is often the first step. The Bexar County court system reviews evidence about a dog's past behavior or any prior complaints. Our dog bite attorney San Antonio team is skilled at obtaining local animal control records and connecting with witnesses who can help verify the owner's knowledge or negligence under Texas law.

Simply put, a dog gets one “free” bite before its owner becomes legally aware of danger. If you are the first person bitten, strict liability may not apply—however, it does not mean you have no case for compensation if negligence was involved.

In Texas, dog owners can be held responsible if their negligence leads to injury. Unlike strict liability, a negligence case does not require proof of previous bites. You must show the dog owner owed you a duty of care, failed to meet that duty by being negligent, and that this failure led to your injuries.

It’s important to know that San Antonio requires pet owners to keep dogs leashed in public and prevent escapes from enclosures. Breaking these rules could be key evidence of negligence if a bite happens as a result. Dog bite lawyers in San Antonio examine these ordinances and work with city officials or review animal control records to determine if these rules were broken in your situation, helping strengthen your claim.

Examples of Negligence in Dog Bite Claims

Examples of dog handling negligence can include:

• Failing to keep a dog properly restrained in public
• Failing to monitor a dog's behavior at a dog park
• Failing to maintain an enclosure
• Failing to secure a residence
• Violating an applicable animal control law

San Antonio’s animal control laws create clear responsibilities for pet owners. If an unleashed dog injures someone in a public park, or a property owner consistently ignores animal control warnings, these details can help your case stand out. Because standards of dog owner care can vary based on where an incident happens, our dog bite attorneys look closely at all city codes and Texas regulations to find every possible angle for proving negligence. This detailed approach offers our Bexar County clients a strong advantage when seeking fair recovery after a bite.

Texas also classifies some dogs as “dangerous.” A dog can be labeled dangerous if it attacks someone unprovoked outside its enclosure and causes injury, or if it behaves in a way that makes someone reasonably believe an attack is likely. Dangerous dogs are subject to extra animal control rules.

A dog owner might not be liable if their animal bites someone while inside the enclosure at home, depending on the circumstances. Similarly, if the bite victim provoked the dog, the owner is generally not held responsible for resulting injuries.

Do not assume you have no case because the owner says the dog never bit before. Our San Antonio dog bite attorneys carefully investigate every situation, determine liability, and guide you through your legal options in Bexar County.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Dog attacks cause more than just immediate pain—the injuries and complications can be severe. Large dogs, in particular, can inflict deep wounds, broken bones, or permanent tissue damage. Even smaller breeds can cause infections or nerve injuries that require long-term care and attention from medical professionals.

Each dog bite case brings its own set of challenges for victims in San Antonio. Medical professionals at University Hospital and other facilities routinely treat wounds—ranging from obvious punctures to more subtle injuries to nerves or tendons. Any bite can lead to infections, so getting prompt treatment is critical and supports your legal case. Psychological trauma is also common, especially for children or seniors. Our dog bite lawyer San Antonio team addresses all aspects of recovery for our clients, ensuring both physical and emotional impacts are considered when seeking damages.

A dog attack can result in:

• Puncture wounds. Deep wounds from a dog's teeth, which can lead to significant blood loss.
• Lacerations. Skin tears that may require stitches, sometimes leaving lasting scars.
• Fractures and broken bones. Strong bites may fracture bones in hands, arms, or face.
• Nerve damage. Injuries to nerves can cause long-term problems with sensation or movement.
• Infections. Dog bites introduce bacteria, making infection a serious concern.
• Scarring and disfigurement. Especially when bites affect the face, leading to physical and emotional challenges.
• Psychological trauma. Many victims experience anxiety, PTSD, or a fear of dogs long after healing.

Recovery from these injuries may require a team of specialists, such as plastic surgeons for disfigurement or counselors for emotional trauma. At The Packard Law Firm, we ensure every aspect of your injury—physical, emotional, and financial—is considered in your San Antonio dog bite claim.

What Damages Are Available in Texas Dog Bite Lawsuits?

Dog bite victims in Texas may pursue both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover out-of-pocket losses—like medical bills or lost wages—while non-economic damages account for pain, suffering, and impacts on your quality of life.

Our San Antonio dog bite attorneys help you evaluate the full scope of compensation. We look at not just your immediate medical costs but also future care, lost earnings, and therapy for trauma. Because the effects of a dog bite can last years, our team helps you document ongoing expenses to make sure your claim is strong, both in negotiation and court proceedings in Bexar County.

We will either negotiate directly with the dog owner's insurance company or, if those negotiations are unsuccessful, represent you in court. Our San Antonio dog bite lawyers are committed to working tirelessly on your behalf so you get the resources you need to move forward.

Our San Antonio dog bite lawyers can fight to secure maximum compensation for all economic and non-economic damages, including:

• Medical bills
• Lost income and future earning potential
• Property damage (like torn clothing or a broken phone)
• Disfigurement
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life

In some severe dog bite cases, punitive damages may also be available if the owner acted with extreme negligence or violated animal control laws in San Antonio more than once. Our dog bite lawyer San Antonio team thoroughly investigates each claim and works with local experts and agencies to determine if you are eligible for all available compensation. This comprehensive process helps make sure you aren't left with the costs of another's negligence.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Lawsuits in Texas?

In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of a dog bite to file a lawsuit for damages. If you miss this legal deadline, you may lose your right to pursue compensation for your injuries.

If your injury happened in Bexar County, it is best to begin gathering hospital records and animal control reports as soon as possible. Our San Antonio dog bite attorneys help clients collect evidence and manage documentation, so important deadlines are not missed. Because evidence can disappear and memories fade, starting your case early gives you a better chance of success.

Although two years may sound like plenty of time, delays can complicate your case. The sooner you get in touch with a knowledgeable dog bite attorney in San Antonio, the better prepared you will be to protect your interests and make informed decisions throughout the legal process.

What to Do Immediately After a Dog Bite in San Antonio

Taking decisive steps after a dog bite in San Antonio helps protect your health, preserve key evidence, and support your legal rights. Each situation is different, but being prepared helps you recover fully and builds a strong case with the support of a dog bite attorney San Antonio residents trust.

If a dog bites you, get prompt medical care—even if your injuries seem minor—to prevent hidden complications or infection. After treatment, report the incident to San Antonio Animal Care Services to create an official record. Photograph your wounds, the scene, and the dog if possible. Collect names and contacts for anyone who witnessed the attack, and keep any damaged clothing as evidence.

• Write your account of what happened soon after the incident to keep your memory clear and detailed.
• Track all expenses, including medical bills, prescriptions, and travel associated with your treatment.
• Request a copy of the animal control report for your records.
• Notify your own insurance provider, if relevant, but avoid giving detailed statements before consulting with a dog bite attorney in San Antonio.
• Contact a reputable legal professional quickly to preserve time-sensitive evidence.

By completing these actions promptly in San Antonio and Bexar County, you lay the groundwork for optimal medical, financial, and legal recovery. If you have questions about any step, our attorneys at The Packard Law Firm are available to offer guidance and peace of mind.

The Legal Process for a Dog Bite Lawsuit in San Antonio

Understanding the steps of a dog bite claim in San Antonio prepares you for what to expect and allows you to work closely with your attorney for a positive outcome. Every case has unique aspects, but knowing the process from start to finish empowers you to protect your rights and collaborate effectively with your legal team.

Most cases begin with an in-depth investigation, including animal control records and witness interviews, medical documentation from local providers, and a review of the scene. Your attorney will first seek a fair settlement with the dog owner's insurance company, recovering compensation for damages like medical bills, lost wages, and pain or suffering. If fair compensation isn't offered, your lawyer may file a lawsuit in Bexar County court to keep your case moving forward.

• Consultation with your dog bite lawyer to discuss your facts and goals
• Gathering evidence and establishing the legal basis for your claim
• Negotiations with the responsible party’s insurance provider
• Filing a lawsuit, followed by court filings and possibly mediation
• Trial in a local court if a settlement cannot be reached

Throughout this process, ongoing communications with your attorney help reduce stress and make the experience more manageable. At The Packard Law Firm, we keep clients updated at every stage and address your needs quickly and transparently, so you are always in control of your recovery and results.

Why Trust a Local Dog Bite Attorney for Your San Antonio Case?

When it comes to dog bite cases in San Antonio, local knowledge is more than an advantage—it can profoundly affect your results. Hiring a dog bite attorney San Antonio residents can rely on means you’ll have legal guidance shaped by years of work in Bexar County courts and direct experience negotiating with local insurance companies and handling city-specific animal control cases.

Local representation brings real benefits. Attorneys familiar with San Antonio courts and judges can anticipate challenges, work with local animal control authorities, and call on medical experts who understand the nature of dog bite injuries in the region. These details help us build strong, personalized strategies for every client we represent.

• Fast access to records from area hospitals and agencies
• Deep understanding of Bexar County court procedures and staff
• Knowledge of insurers often involved in San Antonio claims
• Proactive compliance with all local filing timelines and rules
• Strong ties within the San Antonio community that help your case move smoothly

At The Packard Law Firm, our nearly 50-year San Antonio legacy provides a practical edge as we advocate for you. We invite anyone recovering from a dog attack to connect with a law firm that not only knows the legal process, but truly understands the needs and character of our South Texas community.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Lawsuits

The Dog That Bit Me Was Wearing a Shock or Prong Collar. Does This Affect My Case?

Shock and prong collars are sometimes used to manage dogs with behavioral issues. Their use might suggest the owner was aware of previous aggression, which could influence strict liability. If a dog wearing such a collar bites you, it could also show that the owner failed to control their dog. The unique facts of each situation and local leash laws will affect the outcome. Our team can investigate to help you understand your legal path.

I Was Bitten on Public Property in San Antonio. Can I Sue the City?

Cities in Texas, like San Antonio, have some immunity from lawsuits—called “sovereign immunity”—but may still be liable if you prove negligence, such as repeated failure to enforce leash laws. Key factors include how the dog got on public property and what the city knew about it. Claims against the city usually have stricter deadlines than those against private parties. If you think the city is involved, consult a San Antonio dog bite attorney right away.

If the Dog Was Provoked, Can It Impact My Case?

Dog owners often argue provocation to avoid responsibility. If you provoked the dog—by teasing, hitting, or threatening—it may reduce or even eliminate an owner’s liability for a bite injury. The effect depends on what happened in your specific case and how provocation is interpreted under Texas law.

How Can I Prove the Dog Owner's Negligence?

To prove a dog owner’s negligence, you must present solid evidence they failed to control or manage their pet. Useful documentation can include eyewitness affidavits, animal control records, and scene photos. If there’s a history of prior incidents, that can strengthen your case. A dog bite attorney in San Antonio can help organize and present this information effectively.

Additional supporting evidence might include reports from veterinarians or animal behavior specialists. Clear documentation, gathered and used by experienced professionals, increases your chance of a fair legal outcome in San Antonio courts.

What Are My Legal Rights If a Minor Is Bitten?

Minors in Texas have the same rights as adults to seek compensation after a dog bite. Because children are more vulnerable and may face long-term effects, the law is especially protective. Parents or guardians may pursue damages for medical treatment, therapy, and other related needs on the child’s behalf.

Sometimes, the court must approve settlements for minors to ensure they serve the child’s best interests. Consultation with a knowledgeable legal professional helps protect your child’s rights and secure proper support after an incident.

How Does Insurance Factor Into a Dog Bite Claim?

Homeowner’s or renter’s insurance often covers dog bite liability, helping resolve claims through negotiation and documentation. The process typically involves reporting the bite, submitting injury proof, and working with an adjuster to evaluate the claim. Many insurers attempt to minimize their payout, so having legal guidance can make a real difference.

Consistent communication and documentation remain crucial throughout negotiations. Experienced attorneys are familiar with insurance strategies and help make sure you get a settlement that reflects all your damages and losses from the dog bite.

How Our Dog Bite Attorneys in San Antonio Can Help You

Choosing the right legal representation is crucial when you are navigating a complex dog bite case. At the Packard Law Firm, we bring deep experience and a strong commitment to every dog bite victim in San Antonio. Our attorneys understand the stress and pain these incidents cause and strive to support your physical, financial, and emotional recovery.

Dan Packard, a board-certified personal injury trial lawyer, leads our team with decades of experience in Bexar County courts. This local perspective shapes our entire approach, letting us anticipate the strategies of local judges, insurance adjusters, and opposing counsel. By keeping our caseload manageable and prioritizing client relationships, each San Antonio dog bite attorney at our firm provides exceptional responsiveness and access to legal guidance when you need it.

Here are a few reasons why choosing us is the right decision for your case:

• Personalized attention: We give every client individual care, listening to your story and needs to build a strong case.
• Proven track record: Our firm has achieved notable results for San Antonio dog bite victims, securing substantial settlements and verdicts.
• Understanding of dog bite laws: With a deep knowledge of Texas dog bite statutes, we effectively navigate every aspect of your claim.
• Contingency fee basis: We don’t get paid unless you recover compensation, so our goals align with yours.
• Guidance and support: We advise you from the first consultation to the final step, keeping you informed during every phase of your claim.

Our extensive experience serving clients in San Antonio means we can manage the entire legal process: from deposition preparation and court appearances in Bexar County to dealing with large insurance companies. We also work closely with local medical providers, helping document the impact of your injuries for insurance and courtroom proceedings. As your local dog bite lawyer San Antonio, our hands-on approach gives you peace of mind, and our practical solutions are tailored to your unique recovery journey.

Your well-being is our top priority. Let us help you seek justice and fair compensation. Contact the Packard Law Firm today for a free consultation.

A dog bite lawsuit can help hold pet owners accountable and make our community safer. Contact us online or call (210) 972-8918 to discuss your case with our San Antonio dog bite lawyers today.