Pearland Dog Bite Lawyer

Pearland dog attacks aren't strict-liability cases the way most people assume — Texas follows a modified "one-bite rule" with multiple paths to owner liability.

Dog Bites in Pearland

Most Pearland dog bite cases we handle resolve against the dog owner's homeowners' or renters' insurance policy, not the owner's personal wallet. Typical policy limits run $100K–$300K. Identifying the right policy is part of the first 48 hours of the case.

Texas law that governs dog bite cases

Strict Liability?
No — modified "one-bite rule"Marshall v. Ranne, 511 S.W.2d 255 (Tex. 1974)
Owner Knowledge Standard
Knew or should have knownOf dangerous propensity
Negligence Per Se
Leash-law violation = negligenceLocal ordinances apply
Filing Deadline
2 yearsTex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.003

Common injuries we see in Pearland

  • Puncture wounds and deep lacerations
  • Crush injuries to small body parts
  • Nerve damage and loss of function
  • Permanent scarring and disfigurement
  • Infection (Capnocytophaga, MRSA, sepsis)
  • PTSD and lasting fear of animals
  • Reconstructive surgery
  • Rabies exposure protocol

Compensation we pursue

  • Past and future medical care
  • Reconstructive surgery costs
  • Mental health treatment (especially for child victims)
  • Pain and suffering
  • Disfigurement damages
  • Lost wages
  • Mental anguish
  • Loss of consortium

Frequently asked questions for Pearland clients

Is Texas a strict-liability state for dog bites?

No. Texas follows a modified "one-bite rule" under Marshall v. Ranne, 511 S.W.2d 255 (Tex. 1974). An owner is liable if they knew or should have known the dog had dangerous propensities, or under negligence per se when leash laws are violated.

Who pays a Pearland dog bite claim?

Most homeowners' and renters' insurance policies in Texas include liability coverage for dog bites, with typical limits between $100,000 and $300,000. Some policies exclude certain breeds. Identifying the right policy is part of the first phase of the case.

My child was bitten by a friend's family dog. Do I really have to sue?

The lawsuit is almost always against the homeowners' insurance policy, not your friend personally. Texas families regularly resolve these claims through the carrier without anyone paying out of pocket.

Court venue for Pearland cases

Personal injury cases arising in Pearland are typically filed in Brazoria and Harris counties (county seat: Angleton / Houston), in the District Courts or County Courts at Law. We're familiar with the local procedures and carrier tendencies in this venue.

Getting from Pearland to our Houston office

From Pearland, take Highway 288 North to the West Loop 610 North. Exit Westheimer west, then turn right on Fountain View.

Newman Injury Law
2401 Fountain View Dr, Suite 830
Houston, TX 77057
Get directions →

Hurt in Pearland?

Free consultation, 24/7. Call us before talking to the other side's insurance.