Running or jogging in the vibrant city of San Antonio can be a delightful way to stay fit and active. However, encountering an aggressive dog can quickly turn a routine jog into a distressing situation. If a dog bites you while you are jogging, it is crucial to understand your legal rights and the steps you can take to protect yourself.
Prioritize your safety and health.
Right after a dog bite, make sure you are safe and take care of any injuries. Dog bites can be serious, leading to infections or worse, so see a doctor immediately. Even if the injury seems small, it is better to have a doctor check it.
You should also take pictures of your injuries and keep all medical records and bills. These will be important if you decide to take legal action.
Report the incident.
Once you have taken care of your medical needs, report the dog bite. In San Antonio, you should notify Animal Care Services. You should also file a police report, which adds another layer of documentation that could help you legally.
Gather evidence.
Collect as much information as you can at the scene. If it is safe, find out who owns the dog and where it lives, as this information is crucial for any legal actions. Also, if there are any witnesses, get their statements and contact details
Understand liability and negligence under Texas law.
Texas has a “one bite rule,” where a dog owner is liable if they knew the dog had bitten someone before or had shown aggression. Also, if the dog’s owner did not properly restrain them, the court might consider them negligent even if the dog has not been aggressive before.
You should also remember that if the court finds that you were partly at fault for the incident, they may reduce the compensation you receive. The dog owner might try to avoid responsibility by saying that you provoked the dog or that you were on the owner’s property without permission. The evidence you collect can be key in proving what happened.
Consult with an attorney.
A dog bite can be a very upsetting experience, but you are not alone. There are legal professionals ready to help you every step of the way. An experienced injury attorney can offer advice, help gather evidence and deal with the dog owner’s insurance company. An attorney can also explain your rights and the possible compensation for medical costs, lost wages and pain and suffering.
While a dog bite can turn a pleasant job into a serious injury, it is possible to hold the dog owner responsible for the harm you suffered. Knowing what steps to take can help you protect your rights.