As North Texas gets ready for a fun weekend of Fourth of July festivities, most residents are thinking about fireworks, hot dogs, and time with friends and family. However, something that often gets overlooked in all the excitement is the risk of dog bites.
Whether you’re watching fireworks at Harry Myers Park in Rockwall, catching the show at the North Texas Fairgrounds in Denton, or barbecuing in a friend’s backyard, there is a chance you’ll encounter dogs in unfamiliar environments. Knowing how to protect yourself and what to do if you’re bitten by one can make all the difference.
Liability for Dog Bites in Public Spaces
North Texas hosts many Fourth of July events yearly, from the Arlington Independence Day Parade to Frisco’s Fireworks on the Fairway. There’s something for everyone, and certain family-friendly events even welcome dogs. Unfortunately, crowded public spaces and loud noises can make some pets unpredictable.
Even a well-behaved dog may get anxious around booming fireworks, children running nearby, or strangers trying to pet them. A sudden dog attack can turn a celebration into an emergency. If a dog bites you at a public venue, the pet owner can be held responsible under Texas law, especially if city leash rules were ignored or the dog acted aggressively. In Denton, local ordinances require dogs to be leashed in public spaces, and it’s also illegal to leave a dog unattended while on a leash.
Under the one-bite rule in Texas, the owner might not be responsible for injuries if their dog bites someone for the first time. However, a dog owner is liable if they knew or should have known their dog had aggressive tendencies or had previously bitten someone.
In some cases, if negligence was involved, they may be responsible for dog bite injuries even without a prior incident. For example, ignoring leash rules or bringing a dog to a park for an Independence Day event where pets aren’t allowed. Certain dog bite cases involve the strict liability rule, in which an injured person can obtain compensation by showing that the dog was known to be dangerous and caused their injuries.
When Dog Bites Occur in Homes
July Fourth celebrations often continue in private homes after the public parades and fireworks. Whether you’re invited to a neighbor’s cookout in Denton or visiting relatives in Lake Dallas, it’s essential to remember that dog bite risks go beyond public spaces. They often occur in homes, when you are visiting a friend or family member.
If you’re injured due to a dog bite in someone’s house or apartment, their insurance policy may cover your injuries. Most homeowners’ insurance policies in Texas include liability coverage for dog bites, up to a certain amount. Renters’ insurance can also provide coverage if the bite occurs inside a rented space. In some cases, the dog owner might also carry a separate pet liability policy.
That said, not all insurance plans cover all dog breeds. Some carriers exclude high-risk breeds like pit bulls or rottweilers, while others may deny coverage if the dog has a known history of aggression. This is one of the reasons speaking to a personal injury attorney is vital. They can help you pursue maximum compensation for your dog bite-related costs, such as future medical bills and lost wages.
What To Do if You Suffer From a Dog Bite in North Texas
If you’re injured by a dog during Fourth of July celebrations, the steps you take afterwards matter. Here’s what you should do:
- Get medical care. Even minor bites can cause infections such as rabies or tetanus. Hospitals can provide emergency treatment for serious injuries.
- Report the incident. It is important to contact local authorities and animal services. This will help track the dog’s history and ensure proper quarantine procedures.
- Get the critical details. Ask for the dog owner’s full name, phone number, and insurance details. If there were any witnesses, collect their information.
- Document everything. Take photos of the wound, the scene, and any damage to clothing or belongings. These details will be helpful if you decide to file a claim.
- Reach out to a top-rated North Texas dog bite attorney. Dog bite cases can get complicated quickly, especially with insurance companies involved. A lawyer can help protect your rights and make sure your costs are fully covered.
Contact the Dog Bite Attorneys at Chandler Ross
At Chandler Ross PLLC, we are dedicated to helping clients in Denton, Dallas, Fort Worth, and across North Texas recover compensation after serious dog bite injuries. Our team knows how to handle complex insurance claims and has secured meaningful settlements for dog bite cases. With five-star Google reviews, past clients have praised Chandler Ross PLLC for providing “excellent service,” including attention to detail, responsiveness, teamwork, and an impressive “ability to achieve favorable outcomes.”
If you have been injured due to a dog bite in a public space or inside a home and aren’t sure what your next steps should be, our team is here to help. Contact the trusted dog bite attorneys at Chandler Ross PLLC for a free case evaluation. In most cases, you pay nothing unless we are able to settle your case or win a verdict.
