Dog bites may produce life-long injuries, causing permanent damage and scarring. These injuries may also lead to a fear of dogs that never existed before the incident occurred. A dog bite occurring in Austin should be reported for your safety, as well as for others.
Following the laws on reporting dog bites in Austin is the first step in documenting the damages you have suffered. A report may also be beneficial when your injuries are extensive and require legal action. An Austin dog bite lawyer with Zinda Law Group can help you navigate filing a claim and discuss what compensation may be available based on the damages you have experienced.
Filing an Austin Dog Bite Report
According to Austin Animal Center, anyone bitten by an animal in Austin should report the incident to Animal Protection. An individual suffering a bite that requires medical attention must take additional steps. Take these steps to file a dog bite report in Austin:
- Call 311 to report a dog bite occurring within Austin city limits
- Residents outside city limits in Travis County will call (512) 974-2000 to file a report
- Fill out an Animal Bite Report if the injury requires medical attention
Determining whether a dog has a history of dangerous interactions can be challenging. Exposure risks to disease and infection may also create complications in the healing process, requiring extensive medical care. Speak with an Austin personal injury lawyer to learn the additional steps to take once a report has been filed.
John (Jack) Zinda
Founder / CEO
Over 100 years of combined experience representing injured victims across the country.
Available 24 / 7|Free ConsultationDocumenting a Dog Bite in Austin
Determining the extent of your injuries from a dog bite is best done through documentation. Filing a report will help to apply dog bite laws in Texas and determine if you were exposed to rabies. To document a dog bite in Austin:
- Get medical care for your injuries within 24 hours if the skin is broken because of the risk of infection. Severe bruising and soft tissue damage may occur even without skin penetration.
- Continue with follow-up treatments, rehabilitative care, or other medical interventions prescribed by a physician.
- Take pictures of the wounds.
- Compile all medical documents.
- File an insurance claim to cover the costs related to your injuries.
Most homeowners’ insurance policies cover dog bites even away from the home. Determining whether renters’ insurance covers dog bites depends on the individual’s policy. Contacting a dog bite lawyer in Austin with Zinda Law Group before filing an insurance claim allows you to protect your best interests when filing a claim, such as never giving a recorded statement about the incident or being coerced into an early settlement.
Neil Solomon
Partner
Real results matter. We do not get paid unless we win your case.
Available 24 / 7|Free ConsultationWhy Filing a Dog Bite Report Is Necessary
Filing reports after encountering a biting dog in Austin serves numerous functions. Filing a report may be difficult, especially if you know the dog’s owner. However, the following information may be determined after filing a report:
- If a dog has bitten before, and if so, whether these incidents may continue to threaten the community
- Whether rabies exposure is a concern to you, others in the community, and to other animals
- Information about the dog’s owner
- Who is liable in a dog bite incident
Obtaining a copy of the report will provide valuable insight for a dog bite attorney in Austin in determining when you can sue for a dog bite injury. Without a dog bite report, the injured party is less likely to successfully secure compensation for damages through a settlement with the insurance company or civil action in court. Following the law by filing a report protects you as well as others.
Jason Aldridge
Attorney
Standing by 24 hours a day, 7 days a week ready to answer in your time of need.
Available 24 / 7|Free ConsultationWhy Dog Bites Are Costly
The cost of treating bite injuries in the United States for dogs averages approximately $165 million annually, according to the National Library of Medicine. Treatment for dog bites in an emergency facility generally costs more than treatment for other injuries. Dog bites are documented in this report to be associated with complications leading to:
- Infection
- Nerve damage
- Pain
- Death
Extended corrective treatment can be costly. This report documented children as the highest sufferers of dog bites. Ongoing treatment may be required as a child matures.
Cole Gumm
Attorney
We are here to ensure you won’t have to face this difficult time alone.
Available 24 / 7|Free ConsultationActions to Avoid After a Dog Bite in Austin
A range of emotions may occur after being involved in an unfriendly encounter with a dog. Before reacting, reflect on how your actions may impact you. Refrain from the following actions after a dog bite:
- Threatening the owner
- Posting pictures on social media and sharing information about the incident
- Talking with others about the incident
Taking a break from social media after suffering an injury is critical. The information shared online may be used against you when filing a claim or lawsuit. An Austin dog bite attorney can discuss how best to protect your claim.
Preventing Dog Bites in Austin
Pet owners are responsible for controlling their pets and providing a safe atmosphere for others coming in contact with their dogs. Dogs are allowed in more places than ever, making an encounter with a dog more likely. Avoid potential dog bites in Austin by:
- Supervising children around any dog
- Never approach dogs you are unfamiliar with
- Avoiding running, riding a bicycle by, or screaming near a dog
- Playing appropriately with a dog and avoiding aggressive behavior
- Letting a dog sniff you before petting it
Even dogs you are familiar with may react unexpectedly, biting you when you least expect it. We frequently encounter the familiar question, “My friend’s dog bit me. What should I do?” Let us explain how the compensation process works.
Discuss a Dog Bite with an Austin Dog Bite Lawyer
In addition to filing a dog bite report, contacting a dog bite attorney with our firm will help you become aware of your options when the damages from your injuries are causing financial, physical, and emotional hardship. Complete our free case evaluation form to speak with an experienced dog bite attorney at Zinda Law Group. You pay no fees for our services unless we secure compensation for you.
Jason Aldridge
Attorney
We have successfully represented clients in a wide variety of cases across the country.
Available 24 / 7|Free Consultation
