Holding Negligent Owners Accountable
Dog bite injuries can be far more serious than many people realize. Deep puncture wounds, torn tissue, nerve damage, bone fractures, and severe infections are common consequences — and the emotional trauma, particularly for children, can last long after physical wounds heal. In Texas, dog owners have a legal responsibility to control their animals and prevent them from harming others.
Attorney John Ghezzi represents dog bite victims across Montgomery County and surrounding areas. He understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll these injuries take, and he works to ensure victims receive full compensation for their losses.
Texas follows a “one bite” rule combined with general negligence principles. A dog owner may be held liable if they knew or should have known the dog had dangerous tendencies, or if the attack resulted from the owner’s failure to use reasonable care to control the animal. Evidence of prior aggressive behavior, lack of restraint, violations of local leash laws, and the circumstances of the attack are all relevant factors.
Victims of dog bites may recover compensation for medical treatment (including reconstructive surgery), scarring and disfigurement, pain and suffering, emotional distress and psychological counseling, lost wages, and in some cases, punitive damages if the owner’s conduct was particularly reckless.
With over 30 years of trial experience, Attorney John Ghezzi has a proven track record of securing favorable case results for injured clients across Montgomery County. Learn more about our firm or read what past clients say on our testimonials page.
Three decades of Texas courtroom experience fighting for injury victims across Montgomery County.
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Attorney John Ghezzi has over 30 years of trial experience representing injured Texans. He is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum. View full bio
COMMON QUESTIONS
Texas follows a 'one bite' rule combined with negligence principles. A dog owner can be held liable if they knew or should have known their dog was dangerous, or if they failed to use reasonable care to control the animal. You do not necessarily need to prove the dog has bitten someone before to have a valid claim.
Seek medical attention immediately to treat the wound and prevent infection. Try to identify the dog and its owner, and document your injuries with photographs. Report the bite to Montgomery County Animal Control and then consult with The Ghezzi Law Firm to understand your legal options.
Dog bite victims may recover compensation for medical bills, reconstructive surgery costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. If the bite results in permanent scarring or disfigurement, additional damages may be available. Children who suffer dog bites often receive higher compensation due to the lasting physical and emotional impact.
Yes, parents or legal guardians can file a claim on behalf of a minor child who has been bitten by a dog. Children are particularly vulnerable to serious dog bite injuries, especially to the face and neck. While a dog owner may raise provocation as a defense, Texas courts consider the child’s age and understanding, and children are generally held to a lower standard of awareness than adults, and homeowner's insurance often covers these claims.
In many cases, the dog owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance policy covers dog bite injuries. These policies typically include liability coverage that can pay for medical bills and other damages. Attorney Ghezzi can help identify applicable insurance coverage and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
The statute of limitations for a dog bite personal injury claim in Texas is two years from the date of the bite. For minor children, the deadline may be extended until two years after they turn 18. Acting quickly helps preserve evidence and strengthens your case.
No. Texas does not have a strict liability statute for dog bites. Instead, the victim must show that the owner knew or should have known the dog was dangerous, or that the owner was negligent in controlling the animal. Evidence of prior aggression, lack of restraint, or violations of leash ordinances can establish liability.
Even without a prior bite history, an owner can be held liable under negligence theory if they failed to use reasonable care. For example, if the dog was off-leash in violation of local ordinances, or if the owner knew the dog had aggressive tendencies even without a prior bite.
Yes. Report the bite to local animal control and seek medical attention immediately. Documentation from animal control and medical providers will be important evidence in your claim. Texas law also requires a 10-day quarantine observation for the animal.
Yes, as long as you were lawfully present on the property (e.g., as an invited guest, a delivery person, or a mail carrier). Trespassers generally have more limited rights, but even in those cases, liability may exist under certain circumstances.
Contact The Ghezzi Law Firm today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re here to help you understand your legal options.