San Antonio Dog Bite Lawyer Fighting for Attack Victims

TLDR
Harper Law Firm represents San Antonio dog bite victims seeking compensation for their injuries. Texas ranks #2 in the nation for dog attacks, and Bexar County is among the top Texas counties for fatal dog attacks. San Antonio recorded 32 postal worker dog attacks in 2022 alone, ranking 9th among U.S. cities. Nationwide, 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs annually, with 800,000 requiring medical attention. Children are the most common victims, with 60% of bites affecting minors and 77% of child injuries occurring to the face. Texas follows a modified “one-bite rule” and negligence standards for dog owner liability. Our experienced attorneys understand how to be your San Antonio dog bite lawyer through knowledge of dangerous propensities, and by establishing negligence to secure maximum compensation. Free consultations—you pay nothing unless we win.

Experienced Legal Representation for Dog Bite Injuries

A dog attack can happen without warning—while visiting a neighbor’s home, walking through your neighborhood, or even from a family pet you’ve known for years. In seconds, a dog bite can cause lacerations, puncture wounds, permanent scarring, nerve damage, and severe psychological trauma that lasts a lifetime.

Texas consistently ranks among the most dangerous states for dog attacks. The U.S. Postal Service ranked Texas #2 nationwide for dog attacks, with 404 incidents in 2022. San Antonio ranked 9th among U.S. cities with 32 postal worker attacks that year. Bexar County is among the Texas counties with the most fatal dog attacks, alongside Harris and Montgomery counties.

Harper Law Firm represents San Antonio dog bite victims seeking fair compensation from negligent dog owners and their insurance companies. We understand Texas dog bite law, including the “one-bite rule” and negligence standards that determine liability. When dog owners fail to control their animals, injured victims deserve aggressive legal representation to recover compensation for their injuries.

Understanding Your Rights After a Dog Attack

Texas dog bite law is more complex than in many other states. Unlike states with “strict liability” laws that automatically hold owners responsible for any bite, Texas follows a modified “one-bite rule” and negligence standards. This means proving liability requires demonstrating either:

The owner knew or should have known their dog had dangerous propensities, or
The owner failed to exercise reasonable care to prevent the attack

Many dog bite victims mistakenly believe they have no recourse if the dog never bit anyone before. This isn’t necessarily true. An experienced attorney can investigate whether the owner had reason to know their dog was dangerous based on previous aggressive behavior, breed-specific concerns, or failure to properly restrain the animal.

Harper Law Firm has the experience to build compelling dog bite cases in San Antonio and throughout Bexar County.

True Litigation Firm, Not a Settlement Mill

Dog bite cases can involve significant damages—reconstructive surgery, permanent scarring, ongoing psychological treatment, and long-term pain and suffering. Insurance companies fight these claims aggressively, often disputing liability under Texas’s “one-bite rule.”

Harper Law Firm prepares every dog bite case for trial. Our approach includes:

• Thorough investigation of the dog’s history and previous behavior
• Documentation of the owner’s knowledge of aggressive tendencies
• Analysis of local animal control records and prior complaints
• Expert medical testimony regarding injuries and future treatment needs
• Psychological expert consultation for trauma and PTSD claims
• Aggressive negotiation backed by genuine trial preparation

We don’t accept inadequate settlements because insurance adjusters push back. When dog owners cause serious injuries through negligence, we fight for full compensation.

Dog Bite Statistics in San Antonio and Texas

Texas Leads the Nation in Fatal Dog Attacks

Research spanning eight years found 34 deaths related to dog attacks in Texas—more than any other state during the same period. The counties with the most fatal attacks include Harris (Houston), Bexar (San Antonio), and Montgomery.

Breed-related statistics from these fatalities show:

• Pit bulls were responsible for 76% of deaths (26 of 34)
• Rottweilers accounted for 15% (5 deaths)
• 68% of deceased victims were children under age 12
• Over half (52%) of child victims were 2 years old or younger
• Family dogs accounted for 53% of fatal attacks

National Dog Bite Statistics

Dog attacks are a serious public health issue across the United States:

• 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year
• 800,000 dog bites (1 in 5) require medical attention
• Over 500,000 serious dog attacks occur annually
• More than $200 million is spent treating dog bite injuries each year
• At least one person seeks emergency care for a dog bite every minute

Children Face the Greatest Risk

Children are particularly vulnerable to dog attacks:

• 60% of dog bite victims are children
• Severe injuries occur almost exclusively in children under 10
• 77% of child dog bite injuries are to the face
• Young children often cannot recognize warning signs of dog aggression
• Children’s height puts their faces at dog-level during attacks

San Antonio’s Dangerous Dog Problem

San Antonio has experienced numerous serious and fatal dog attacks in recent years. Notable incidents include:February 2023 Fatal Attack: An 81-year-old man was killed and his 74-year-old wife critically injured when two pit bulls attacked them as they prepared to enter their vehicles on Depla Street. One dog tore out the man’s dialysis shunt. Firefighters fought off the dogs with pickaxes and pipe poles. Both owners were sentenced to over 10 years in prison.

The city has responded with increased enforcement and legislation, including H.B. 4759 (effective September 2023), which strengthened dangerous dog regulations specifically for San Antonio.

Texas Dog Bite Laws and Owner Liability

The Texas “One-Bite Rule”

Unlike many states, Texas has no civil statute specifically addressing dog owner liability. Instead, Texas courts have established two bases for holding owners responsible:Strict Liability Under the One-Bite Rule: An owner who knows (or should know) their dog might be dangerous is strictly liable if it attacks someone. This means the victim doesn’t need to prove negligence—just that the owner was aware of the dog’s dangerous propensities.

Evidence of prior dangerous behavior can include:

• Previous bites or attacks on people
• Aggressive behavior toward other animals
• Complaints to animal control
• Owner warnings about the dog’s behavior
• Breed-specific restrictions the owner was aware of

Liability Based on Negligence: Even if an owner had no reason to believe their dog was dangerous, they can still be held liable for negligence. To prove negligence, a victim must show:

• The owner owed a duty of reasonable care
• The owner breached that duty
• The breach caused the victim’s injuries
• The victim suffered actual damages

Examples of negligent behavior include:

• Letting a dog roam off-leash
• Failing to properly secure a fence or gate
• Not restraining a dog in public
• Violating local animal control ordinances

San Antonio’s Dangerous Dog Regulations

San Antonio has specific ordinances regarding dangerous dogs. When a dog bite is reported, the city dispatches a certified Animal Care Officer to investigate. The officer assesses the danger the animal presents, including rabies exposure risk and likelihood of continued aggressive behavior.

If a dog is declared “dangerous” under San Antonio’s ordinances, the owner faces strict requirements for containment, insurance, and registration. Failure to comply can result in criminal charges and civil liability.

Criminal Liability for Dog Owners

In serious cases, Texas dog owners can face felony charges. An owner may be charged with a felony if:

• Their dog makes an unprovoked attack causing serious bodily injury or death
• The owner had actual knowledge the dog was dangerous
• The owner failed to exercise reasonable care to prevent the attack

Criminal negligence under Texas law requires proof that the owner created “a substantial and unjustifiable risk” of harm. Conviction can result in prison time, and the dog may be euthanized.

Types of Dog Bite Injuries We Handle

Lacerations and Puncture Wounds

Dog teeth can cause deep puncture wounds that damage muscles, tendons, and nerves beneath the skin. Even “minor” bites often require stitches, antibiotics, and tetanus shots. Deeper wounds may require surgical repair.

Facial Injuries

Children especially suffer facial injuries in dog attacks because their height places their faces at dog level. Facial bites can cause permanent scarring, disfigurement, and may require multiple reconstructive surgeries over years of growth.

Nerve Damage

Dog bites can sever or damage nerves, leading to numbness, chronic pain, or loss of function. Hand and arm bites are particularly likely to cause lasting nerve damage.

Infections

Dog mouths harbor bacteria that can cause serious infections including:

• Pasteurella infections (most common)
• Staphylococcus and streptococcus infections
• Capnocytophaga infections (potentially life-threatening)
• Rabies (rare but fatal without treatment)

Scarring and Disfigurement

Even after wounds heal, dog bites often leave permanent scars. Visible scarring on the face, arms, or other exposed areas can affect victims emotionally and professionally for life.

Psychological Trauma

Dog attack survivors frequently experience:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Anxiety and panic attacks around dogs
• Nightmares and sleep disturbances
• Fear of going outside or visiting certain locations
• Depression

Children may develop lifelong fear of animals after traumatic attacks.

Compensation for San Antonio Dog Bite Victims

Texas law allows dog bite victims to recover compensation for:

Economic Damages

• Emergency room and hospital bills
• Surgical and reconstructive surgery costs
• Ongoing medical treatment and follow-up care
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Prescription medications
• Lost wages during recovery
• Future lost earning capacity (if permanently disabled)
• Home care needs

Non-Economic Damages

• Physical pain and suffering
• Mental anguish and emotional distress
• Permanent scarring and disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Fear, anxiety, and PTSD

Punitive Damages

In cases involving particularly reckless or egregious owner behavior—such as knowing a dog was dangerous and failing to take any precautions—punitive damages may be available.

What to Do After a Dog Bite in San Antonio

Immediate Steps

Seek medical attention immediately, even for seemingly minor bites
Identify the dog and owner including name, address, and contact information
Ask about vaccination history particularly rabies vaccinations
Report the bite to San Antonio Animal Care Services (311 or 210-207-4PET)
Document your injuries with photographs before and after treatment
Get witness information from anyone who saw the attack
Preserve evidence including torn clothing and any items involved

After Initial Treatment

Follow all medical recommendations including follow-up appointments
Keep detailed records of all medical treatment and expenses
Document lost work and income due to your injuries
Track psychological impacts including anxiety, nightmares, and fear
Contact Harper Law Firm for free legal consultation

Filing a Report

San Antonio Animal Care Services will investigate reported dog bites. Their documentation becomes important evidence in civil claims. The investigation may reveal:

• Previous complaints about the dog
• Whether the dog has current vaccinations
• Whether the owner violated containment requirements
• Whether the dog should be declared dangerous

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sue if the dog never bit anyone before?

Yes. While Texas follows a modified “one-bite rule,” you can still recover damages by proving the owner was negligent—for example, by letting the dog run loose, failing to secure their fence, or violating leash laws. You may also prove the owner should have known the dog was dangerous based on aggressive behavior short of actual bites.

What if I was bitten by a friend’s or family member’s dog?

You can still pursue a claim. Homeowner’s insurance typically covers dog bite liability, so compensation usually comes from insurance—not directly from your friend or family member’s pocket. Many people hesitate to file claims against people they know, but insurance exists precisely for these situations.

What if I was partially at fault—like if I petted the dog first?

Texas uses modified comparative negligence. You can recover damages if you were 50% or less at fault, though your recovery is reduced by your fault percentage. Defendants often argue provocation, but simply petting a dog is rarely considered legal provocation.

What if the dog owner is a renter?

The dog owner remains liable. Additionally, the landlord may be liable if they knew the tenant had a dangerous dog and failed to act—or if the attack occurred in a common area due to the landlord’s negligence.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit?

Texas has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including dog bites. This deadline runs from the date of the attack.

Serving All San Antonio and Bexar County Communities

Harper Law Firm represents dog bite victims throughout the San Antonio metropolitan area:

• All San Antonio neighborhoods
• Converse, Live Oak, and Universal City
• Helotes, Leon Valley, and Castle Hills
• Alamo Heights and Terrell Hills
• All surrounding Bexar County communities

Contact San Antonio Dog Bite Lawyers Today

If you or a loved one has been attacked by a dog in San Antonio, you need experienced attorneys who understand Texas dog bite law and how to hold negligent owners accountable.

Harper Law Firm offers free, no-obligation consultations where we’ll:

• Review the circumstances of your attack
• Explain your legal rights under Texas law
• Investigate the dog’s history and the owner’s knowledge
• Discuss potential compensation for your injuries
• Provide honest assessment of your case

Dog attacks cause devastating physical and emotional injuries. When negligent owners fail to control their animals, victims deserve full compensation for their suffering. Contact Harper Law Firm today—your San Antonio dog bite lawyers are ready to fight for you.