Why You Need a Dog Bite Attorney in El Paso After an Attack

personal injury attorney el paso

Dog bites are traumatic, both physically and emotionally. While many people think of dogs as loyal companions, any animal—even a family pet—can bite under the wrong circumstances. In El Paso, Texas, dog bite incidents happen more often than most realize, and they can result in severe injuries, infections, scarring, and even long-term disability.

If you’ve been bitten by a dog in El Paso, you may face expensive medical bills, lost wages, emotional trauma, and uncertainty about your legal rights. This is where an experienced dog bite attorney in El Paso can make all the difference.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore why hiring a dog bite lawyer is essential, how Texas law treats these cases, what steps you should take after an attack, and how the right attorney can help you secure justice and maximum compensation.

Understanding Dog Bite Laws in El Paso, Texas

Texas "One Bite Rule" vs. Strict Liability

Texas follows a modified “one bite” rule, meaning dog owners may be held liable if they knew—or should have known—that their dog was dangerous. However, under Texas negligence laws, you can still recover damages if you can prove the owner failed to control their pet or prevent the attack.

Key points under the Texas dog bite law:

• If the dog previously bit someone or showed aggressive behavior, the owner can be strictly liable.
  
  

• Even without prior incidents, negligence (such as letting a dog roam off-leash) can establish liability.
  
  

• Certain local ordinances in El Paso may impose additional responsibilities on dog owners.
  
  

El Paso’s Local Animal Control Regulations

The City of El Paso Animal Ordinance includes rules requiring:

• Dogs to be restrained or on a leash in public
  
  

• Dangerous or aggressive dogs to be registered and contained
  
  

• Owners to report bites immediately
  
  

Violating these regulations can strengthen your injury claim.

Why You Shouldn’t Handle a Dog Bite Claim Alone

Insurance Companies Are Not on Your Side

Most dog bite claims involve the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance policy. These insurance companies aim to pay as little as possible, often:

• Downplaying your injuries
  
  

• Claiming you provoked the dog
  
  

• Arguing the bite was your fault
  
  

A skilled dog bite attorney knows how to fight these tactics.

Legal Complexity

Dog bite cases require:

• Gathering medical and incident reports
  
  

• Interviewing witnesses
  
  

• Understanding animal behavior evidence
  
  

• Navigating Texas liability laws
  
  

Without an attorney, you risk missing deadlines, losing evidence, or accepting a lowball settlement.

The Role of a Dog Bite Attorney in Your Case

Case Evaluation and Strategy

Your attorney will start with a free consultation to review:

• How the incident occurred
  
  

• The extent of your injuries
  
  

• Possible insurance coverage
  
  

They’ll create a legal strategy tailored to your case.

Investigating the Attack

A thorough investigation includes:

• Obtaining animal control reports
  
  

• Interviewing witnesses
  
  

• Reviewing prior complaints against the dog
  
  

• Gathering photographic evidence of injuries and location
  
  

Negotiating for Maximum Compensation

Your attorney will:

• Prepare a demand package with medical records, bills, and expert opinions
  
  

• Negotiate with insurance companies
  
  

• Reject inadequate offers
  
  

If needed, they’ll be ready to take your case to trial.

What Compensation Can You Recover After a Dog Bite?

Economic Damages

• Medical expenses: Emergency care, surgeries, medication
  
  

• Lost wages: Time missed from work
  
  

• Future medical costs: Physical therapy, scar revision surgeries
  
  

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering
  
  

• Emotional trauma
  
  

• Loss of quality of life
  
  

• Disfigurement or scarring
  
  

Punitive Damages

In cases of extreme negligence (e.g., the owner knowingly allowed a dangerous dog to roam), you may seek punitive damages to punish the wrongdoing.

Common Injuries from Dog Bites

Physical Injuries

• Deep puncture wounds
  
  

• Lacerations
  
  

• Broken bones (from being knocked down)
  
  

• Nerve damage
  
  

Infections

Dog bites can transmit serious infections, including:

• Rabies
  
  

• Tetanus
  
  

• Staph infections
  
  

Emotional and Psychological Injuries

Dog bite victims often experience:

• Anxiety around dogs
  
  

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  
  

• Sleep disturbances
  
  

Steps to Take Immediately After a Dog Bite in El Paso

Step 1: Seek Medical Attention

Even minor bites can cause severe infections. Go to the ER or an urgent care center immediately.

Step 2: Report the Incident

Contact El Paso Animal Control to document the attack.

Step 3: Gather Evidence

• Take photos of injuries and the scene
  
  

• Save torn or blood-stained clothing
  
  

• Get contact info from witnesses
  
  

Step 4: Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjuste