Are dog bites common in Texas?

Texas seems to be worse than the average state. In a report bydogsbite.org it showed there were 34 Texas dog bite fatalities between 2005 and 2013 —more deaths than any other state. The report further indicated that pit bulls were responsible for 76 percent of the total number of deaths and that Rottweilers accounted for 15 percent of the total. Pit bulls have more prominence in Texas compared to nationally. This is most likely due to the 1991 state wide law prohibiting municipalities from regulating specific dog breeds and perhaps the state’s long reputation for dog-fighting.

Texas data also indicates that 68 percent of the victims (23) were children ages 11-years and younger and 52 percent (12) were ages 2 and younger.

Other Dog Bite FAQs:

• Are dog bites a common occurrence?
• Are dog bites common in Texas?
• Are the dog bite laws the same across Texas?
• Are there some common misconceptions about dog bite liability?
• Can you sue for a dog bite in Texas?
• Do I have to prove that the animal that attacked me is vicious?
• Do I have to prove the dog that attacked me was vicious?
• Do I need to take pictures after being bitten by a dog?
• How is liability for a dog bite established?
• How long does it take for a dog bite case to get to/go through court?
• I think the dog that bit me might have rabies. What do I do now?
• I was bitten by a dog the other day and needed stitches. Who is responsible/liable for the dog biting me?
• My mother witnessed a dog attack and someone said there was a possibility of filing a bystander claim. Is that possible?
• My neighbor’s dog bit me and he accused me of provoking the canine. Does that mean I don’t have a lawsuit?
• What am I supposed to do if I get bitten by a dog?
• What are the most common factors showing a dog owner knew or should have known their animal may be vicious?
• What are the worst injuries sustained during a dog attack?
• What compensation can I recover in a dog bite case?
• What do I do if a dog bites me?
• What happens if a dog not previously regarded as dangerous bites me?
• What is the current law in Texas in regard to dog bites?
• Who are usually the victims of dog bites?
• Who is responsible for paying damages in a dog bite case?
• Who responsible for paying any damages after the dog attack?