Brian White | October 4, 2023 | Texas Laws
Pit bulls, rottweilers, and doberman pinschers often come to mind when people fear dogs. However, wolf hybrids have been proven to be unsafe even when being taken care of by an ideal owner.
Even if owners believe their wolf hybrids are properly domesticated, it is often dangerous to keep these animals on their property.
Dog Bite Laws in Texas
In Texas, an injured party may be able to prove that a dog owner is liable for a dog bite.
Under Texas law, the injured party in a dog bite case must prove that:
- The dog owner was negligent if the owner had no reason to believe that the dog was dangerous; or
- The owner had reason to know the dog was dangerous
If an owner has reason to know that a dog is dangerous, the owner can be held strictly liable for the injury. Note, however, that Texas does have a “one bite” rule in place, at least in effect, which could allow the owner to escape liability for a first bite if neither of the above conditions are met.
If a wolf hybrid bites someone, the owner can be held civilly liable. The owner can also face fines or imprisonment for criminal negligence or if the wolf hybrid is determined to be dangerous.
Wolf Hybrid Fatalities
Wolf hybrids are born when wolves mate with dogs. While dogs often live with humans and are domesticated, wolves are not. When these animals are bred together, there is no guarantee that the wolf hybrid will be fit to live around people.
Wolves are feral animals, and wolf hybrids have the potential to be as well. Wild animals in domestic situations can cause serious injuries or fatalities.
Safety Tips for Avoiding Wolf Hybrid Bites
Some Texas residents will choose to own wolf hybrids regardless of the risks they pose to themselves and others. If you encounter a wolf hybrid at your neighbor’s home, it can be helpful to know what to do.
The following are safety tips to remember when around wolf hybrids:
- Do not approach or pet if you are not familiar with the wolf hybrid
- Do not run
- Do not scream
- Do not make eye contact
- Do not disturb the wolf hybrid during eating or sleeping
- Keep children away
- Do not tease
It is important to avoid provoking a wolf hybrid. If you remain still and calm, you may be able to avoid serious injuries.
What To Do if You Are Attacked by a Wolf Hybrid
If you are injured by a wolf hybrid that is owned by someone else, it is crucial to know what to do after the attack occurs.
The following are steps to take after a wolf hybrid attack:
- Get to safety and seek medical attention immediately
- Notify law enforcement
- Take photos and videos
- Exchange contact information with the wolf hybrid owner
- Obtain homeowners insurance policy information
- Gather witness statements and contact information
- Consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer
If you are injured at someone else’s home by their wolf hybrid, it may be difficult to recover compensation through the homeowners’ insurance policy. Many home insurance companies refuse to provide coverage for wolf hybrids.
Common Injuries Caused by Wolf Hybrids
When wolf hybrids attack, it can lead to life-altering injuries or even fatalities.
Common injuries caused by wolf hybrids include:
- Broken bones
- Amputation
- Soft tissue injury
- Eye injuries
- Brain injury
- Lacerations
- Infections
- Wrongful death
If you are injured by a wolf hybrid, do not delay getting the medical treatment you need. Doing so can negatively impact your health and a subsequent personal injury claim.
Damages Available if You Are Injured by a Wolf Hybrid
When you are dealing with the aftermath of a wolf hybrid attack, your medical bills and out-of-pocket expenses can begin piling up. However, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
The following damages can be pursued after a wolf hybrid attack:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Physical therapy
- Treatment expenses
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Disability
- Disfigurement and scarring
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and PTSD
The damages available to you if you are injured by a wolf hybrid will likely depend on the severity of your injury and how it impacts your life. An experienced personal injury lawyer will work with you to pursue all available damages and get the compensation you deserve.
Contact the Houston Personal Injury Lawyers at Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers For Help
For more information, contact the Houston personal injury law firm of Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers by calling (713) 500-5000.
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