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What is the current law in Texas in regard to dog bites?

While many states have a one-bite rule, which means that an owner cannot be held liable for a dog’s attack unless the dog has a history of biting another person, Texas does not follow this law.

Texas does not have a one-bite rule. Instead, there are two primary claims made against owners in dog bite cases. The most common claim is a negligence claim. Like in other personal injury claims, for a negligence claim, you must prove that the dog owner (or person responsible for the dog) failed to use ordinary care, and that the failure to use ordinary care caused your injuries.

The second and most common claim is that the dog owner failed to use ordinary care by failing to properly restrain the dog. In fact, many local governments in Texas, including both the city of Austin and Travis County, have laws requiring dog owners to have their dogs restrained at all times (though the City of Austin has some exceptions for recognized dog parks).

If you have been injured by a dog, bitten, knocked down or mauled you may be able to seek compensation for your losses. These may include the typical costs of medical care and loss of earnings, and pain and mental anguish.

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