How Insurance Impacts Texas Dog Bite Claims
                     How Insurance 
Impacts Texas Dog 
BTexaist coensi stCentllya rainkms amsong the top states for dog bite 
incidents, highlighting a significant issue for both victims 
and dog owners. In 2022 alone, State Farm, a leading 
insurer, paid out a staggering $149 million nationwide for 
dog bite claims. The average cost of a dog bite claim 
reached $59,077 in 2022, underscoring the financial 
implications of such incidents.
Texas Dog Bite Law: 
Owner Liability
"One-Bite Rule"
Under this rule, an owner is held liable if they knew or 
should have known their dog had a propensity for biting or 
being dangerous. This often requires proof of prior 
aggressive behavior.
Negligence
Owners can be found negligent if they failed to adequately 
control their dog, leading to an injury. This includes failing 
to leash a dog in public or secure a fence.
Strict Liability
In certain situations, such as violations of leash laws or 
other local ordinances, Texas law may impose strict liability 
on dog owners, meaning fault does not need to be proven.
Homeowners & Renters Insurance Coverage
Extensive Coverage Typical Limits
Most homeowners and renters insurance policies Coverage amounts usually range from $100,000 to 
include liability coverage for dog bites, providing $300,000, which can cover substantial damages 
crucial financial protection for dog owners in the resulting from a dog bite injury.
event of an incident.
These policies are designed to cover various expenses, including medical bills for the injured party, lost wages 
due to time off work, and compensation for pain and suffering. For many victims, this insurance serves as the 
primary source of financial recovery, making it an essential aspect of dog ownership.
Common Insurance Exclusions
Breed-Specific Exclusions
Many insurance carriers exclude certain dog breeds, 
such as Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds, 
from liability coverage due to perceived higher risk.
Prior Bite History
If a dog has a history of biting, even once, it can lead to 
immediate voiding of future coverage for dog bite 
incidents on some policies.
Business Use Exclusion
Policies generally exclude coverage for incidents 
occurring on commercial properties or when the dog is 
used for business purposes.
Capped Animal Liability
Some insurance policies place specific caps on animal 
liability that are significantly lower than their general 
liability limits, reducing potential payouts for victims.
The Dog Bite Claim Process
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Prioritize your health. Get all injuries, no matter how minor, medically evaluated and documented by a healthcare professional.
2. Document Everything
Take photos of your injuries and the scene. Collect contact information from witnesses and the dog owner. This evidence is crucial.
3. Notify Authorities
Report the incident to local animal control and law enforcement. This creates an official record of the event, which can be vital for your claim.
4. File Insurance Claim
Promptly notify the dog owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance carrier. Provide all necessary details and documentation to initiate the claim.
5. Prepare for Investigation
Expect an adjuster to investigate. Be ready to provide further information and engage in negotiations to seek fair compensation for your damages.
Recoverable Damages in Texas
• Medical Expenses: This includes emergency room visits, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and any long-term 
medical care required for recovery.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to time off work, both current and potential future earnings if the injury 
causes long-term disability.
• Pain and Suffering: This covers the physical discomfort, emotional distress, psychological trauma, and mental anguish 
resulting from the attack.
• Property Damage: Reimbursement for damaged personal items like torn clothing, eyeglasses, or other belongings during the incident.
• Disfigurement or Permanent Impairment: If the bite leads to scarring, loss of function, or any permanent physical 
changes, these damages are also recoverable.
The Role of a Texas Dog Bite Lawyer
Navigating complex insurance policies and dealing They work to maximize the compensation for all 
with denials can be overwhelming. A skilled attorney damages, ensuring victims receive full and fair 
understands the nuances of insurance law and can recovery for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and 
effectively challenge unfair denials or lowball offers. suffering.
A Texas Dog Bite Lawyer acts as a staunch advocate, 
A lawyer helps gather crucial evidence, including protecting the victim's rights against aggressive 
medical records, witness statements, and expert insurance company tactics and ensuring fair 
testimony, to build a strong case and prove liability treatment throughout the process.
against the dog owner.
Conclusion & Contact Us
Understanding insurance is absolutely critical for anyone involved in a Texas dog bite claim. Knowing your 
policy limits and what common exclusions exist can make a significant difference in the outcome.
Legal representation can profoundly impact the recovery process, ensuring victims receive the compensation 
they deserve. Don't navigate these complex waters alone.
Contact Us
Phone: 713-893-8808
Address: 3663 N. Sam Houston Parkway East, 6th Floor #200 Houston, Texas 77032