SULPHUR SPRINGS & DALLAS, Texas - Nov 4, 2025 - As dog bite injuries surge across Texas at alarming rates, McKay Law, a leading personal injury law firm serving Northeast Texas and the Dallas metroplex, today announced the release of a comprehensive research white paper examining the growing crisis of dog bite accidents in the Lone Star State.
The groundbreaking 40-page report, titled "Dog Bite Accidents in Texas: A Comprehensive Research White Paper," reveals disturbing trends that demand immediate attention from Texas families, dog owners, and policymakers.
THE CRISIS IN NUMBERS
The research uncovers sobering statistics that paint a concerning picture of dog safety in Texas:
- Texas ranks #2 in the nation for dog attacks on postal workers, with 411 incidents annually
- Houston leads the country with 57 postal worker attacks, while Dallas ranks #3 (44 incidents) and San Antonio #9 (32 incidents)
- Severe dog bites have nearly tripled in Austin since 2018, with a 114% increase in repeat attacks by the same dog
- San Antonio experienced a 54% spike in severe bites between fiscal years 2023-2024, representing a potential 314% total increase since 2018
- Insurance claims for dog bites reached $69,272 on average in 2024—an 18% increase from 2023 and a staggering 174.7% increase over the past decade
"These numbers represent real Texans—neighbors, children, family members—whose lives have been forever changed by preventable dog attacks," said Lindsey McKay, lead attorney at McKay Law specializing in dog bite cases. "Our research reveals a public safety crisis that's intensifying, not improving, and we believe knowledge is the first step toward protection."
CHILDREN AT GREATEST RISK
Perhaps most alarming, the research reveals that 60% of all dog bite victims are children, with youngsters ages 5-9 facing the highest risk. According to the white paper, 80% of serious dog bites in children affect the head and neck—the most dangerous areas that can result in permanent scarring, disfigurement, and psychological trauma.
"As both attorneys and parents, we're deeply concerned about the vulnerability of Texas children," said Lindsey McKay. "A single dog attack can require years of reconstructive surgery, therapy, and counseling. The emotional scars often last far longer than the physical wounds."
The research indicates that approximately 27,000-28,000 Americans annually undergo reconstructive surgery due to dog bite injuries, with the average hospitalization lasting 4.2 days and costing $18,200—50% higher than hospitalizations for other types of injuries.
A GROWING FINANCIAL BURDEN
Dog bite injuries aren't just a health crisis—they're creating substantial economic impact. The white paper documents that nationwide insurance payouts for dog-related injuries reached a record-breaking $1.57 billion in 2024, with 22,658 claims filed—an 18.9% increase from the previous year.
In Texas alone, homeowners and their insurance carriers face increasingly expensive liability, with the average claim now approaching $70,000. The research projects these costs will continue rising as medical expenses, jury awards, and legal settlements increase.
MCKAY LAW: ESTABLISHING EXPERTISE IN COMPLEX DOG BITE CASES
With decades of combined experience in personal injury law, McKay Law has developed particular expertise in the nuanced field of Texas dog bite litigation. The firm's research white paper demonstrates this deep understanding of the legal, medical, and insurance complexities that dog bite victims face.
"Texas follows what's called the 'one-bite rule,' which can make these cases particularly challenging," explained Lindsey McKay. "Many victims don't realize they still have legal options even when a dog has no prior bite history. Our white paper breaks down both strict liability and negligence theories, empowering victims to understand their rights."
The comprehensive research covers:
- Statistical analysis of Texas dog bite trends and hotspots
- Detailed breakdown of injury types and severity
- Complete explanation of Texas dog bite law and liability standards
- Insurance coverage options and common policy exclusions
- Step-by-step guidance on evidence preservation and case building
- Science-backed prevention strategies for families and dog owners
- Post-attack protocol to protect health and legal rights
PREVENTION: THE BEST PROTECTION
While McKay Law stands ready to help victims secure justice and compensation, the firm emphasizes that prevention remains the ultimate goal. The white paper dedicates substantial content to evidence-based prevention strategies.
Key prevention findings include:
- Unneutered male dogs are 2.6 times more likely to bite and comprise 70-76% of dog bite incidents
- Early socialization between ages 8-16 weeks is critical for preventing aggressive behavior
- Children require constant supervision around all dogs—even family pets—as most bites occur from dogs known to the victim
- Understanding dog body language can help people recognize warning signs before an attack occurs
"Most dog bites are completely preventable," emphasized Lindsey McKay. "Whether through responsible dog ownership, proper training, or teaching children how to interact safely with animals, we can dramatically reduce these incidents. That's why we're making this research freely available to the public."
FREE ACCESS FOR TEXAS FAMILIES
In keeping with its mission to serve and protect the Texas community, McKay Law is making the complete white paper available for free download at McKayLawTx.com. The firm hopes the research will serve as a valuable resource for:
- Families with young children
- Dog owners seeking guidance on liability and safety
- Victims of dog attacks who need to understand their legal options
- Schools and community organizations developing safety programs
- Policymakers considering animal control legislation
CRITICAL TIMING: THE TWO-YEAR DEADLINE
The research emphasizes a crucial fact that many Texas dog bite victims don't know: state law provides only two years from the date of attack to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline typically results in permanent loss of the right to compensation—regardless of injury severity or the strength of the case.
"We've seen heartbreaking situations where families waited too long, thinking the insurance company would eventually do the right thing," said Lindsey McKay. "By the time they realize they need legal help, it's too late. We want Texans to know their rights and the deadlines they face."
McKay Law offers free consultations for dog bite victims and works on a contingency fee basis—meaning clients pay no attorney fees unless the firm successfully recovers compensation.
ABOUT MCKAY LAW
McKay Law is a Texas-based personal injury law firm dedicated to fighting for the rights of injured Texans. With offices in Sulphur Springs and Dallas, the firm serves dog bite victims throughout Northeast Texas and the Dallas metroplex. Beyond legal representation, McKay Law is committed to strengthening the communities it serves through education, empowerment, and meaningful civic engagement—including the recent launch of McKay Law Toastmasters Club to help community members develop communication and leadership skills.
The firm's attorneys combine deep legal expertise with genuine compassion for clients, providing personalized service while aggressively pursuing maximum compensation. McKay Law has successfully recovered millions of dollars for injury victims across Texas.
DOWNLOAD THE WHITE PAPER
The complete white paper, "Dog Bite Accidents in Texas: A Comprehensive Research White Paper," is available for free download at McKayLawTx.com/resources.
For media inquiries, interviews, expert commentary, or high-resolution images, please contact:
Harold Rosbottom McKay Law Phone: 903-INJURED Email: Harold@McKayLawtx.com
OFFICE LOCATIONS:
Sulphur Springs Office 430 Church St. Sulphur Springs, TX 75482 903-INJURED
Dallas Office 3100 McKinnon St. ste 1100 Dallas, TX 75201 903-INJURED
Tyer Office: 120 S. College Ave. Suite 200 Tyler, TX 75702
Website: McKayLawTx.com Se Habla Español
EDITOR'S NOTE: McKay Law attorneys are available for interviews and can provide expert commentary on:
- Texas dog bite law and the one-bite rule
- Rising dog bite statistics and trends
- Insurance coverage and claim processes
- Prevention strategies for families and dog owners
- Legal rights of dog bite victims
- Child safety around dogs
- Dangerous dog breeds and owner liability
MEDIA ASSETS AVAILABLE:
- High-resolution photos of McKay Law attorneys
- Infographics of key statistics
- Data visualizations of Texas dog bite trends
- B-roll footage suggestions for TV news
- Expert quotes for print and broadcast
SOCIAL MEDIA:
- Website: McKayLawTx.com
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- Free white paper download: McKayLawTx.com/resources
- Dog bite prevention guide:
- Client testimonials:
- Free case evaluation: [URL]
FACT SHEET: DOG BITE INJURIES IN TEXAS
TEXAS RANKINGS:
- #2 in nation for dog attacks (411 postal worker incidents annually)
- Houston: #1 city nationally (57 incidents)
- Dallas: #3 city nationally (44 incidents)
- San Antonio: #9 city nationally (32 incidents)
NATIONAL STATISTICS:
- 4.5 million dog bites occur annually in U.S.
- 800,000+ require medical attention
- 395,000 emergency room visits in 2022 (highest on record)
- 98 fatalities in 2022 (180% increase from 2018)
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
- $1.57 billion total insurance payouts in 2024 (record high)
- $69,272 average claim (18% increase from 2023)
- 174.7% increase in average claim cost (2015-2024)
- $18,200 average hospitalization cost
VICTIM DEMOGRAPHICS:
- 60% of victims are children
- Children ages 5-9 at highest risk
- 80% of serious child bites affect head and neck
- 70% of 2023 fatalities were adults aged 30+
TEXAS LAW:
- Two-year statute of limitations to file lawsuit
- "One-bite rule" for strict liability
- Negligence claims available for all cases
- Criminal penalties under "Lillian's Law" for dangerous dog owners
- Homeowners insurance typically covers (with exclusions)
PREVENTION FACTS:
- Unneutered males 2.6x more likely to bite (70-76% of incidents)
- Early socialization (8-16 weeks) critical
- Most bites from dogs known to victim
- Constant supervision required for children under 10
SUGGESTED HEADLINES FOR MEDIA:
Hard News Angle:
- "Texas Ranks #2 for Dog Attacks as Severe Bites Triple in Major Cities"
- "Alarming Research: Dog Bite Claims in Texas Hit Record $69,272 Average"
- "60% of Dog Bite Victims Are Children, New Texas Research Reveals"
Local Angle:
- "Houston Tops Nation for Dog Attacks; Dallas Ranks Third"
- "San Antonio Dog Bites Spike 54% as Safety Crisis Deepens"
- "Austin Sees Dog Attacks Nearly Triple Since 2018"
Consumer Protection Angle:
- "New White Paper Reveals Texas Dog Bite Victims' Legal Rights"
- "What Every Texas Dog Owner Must Know About Liability"
- "Texas Law Gives Bite Victims Only Two Years to File Claims"
Prevention/Safety Angle:
- "How to Protect Your Children from Dog Attacks: Expert Guide"
- "Most Dog Bites Are Preventable: Research Shows How"
- "Warning Signs Every Texas Family Should Know About Dangerous Dogs"
INTERVIEW QUESTIONS FOR MCKAY LAW ATTORNEYS:
- What prompted McKay Law to undertake this comprehensive research study?
- What was the most surprising or alarming finding in your research?
- Why is Texas ranking so high for dog attacks compared to other states?
- Can you explain the "one-bite rule" and how it affects victims?
- What should someone do immediately after being bitten by a dog?
- How can families protect their children from dog attacks?
- What are the most common mistakes dog bite victims make?
- When should a dog bite victim contact an attorney?
- What makes McKay Law particularly qualified to handle these cases?
- What message do you want Texas families to take away from this research?
PULL QUOTES FOR MEDIA USE:
"These numbers represent real Texans—neighbors, children, family members—whose lives have been forever changed by preventable dog attacks. Our research reveals a public safety crisis that's intensifying, not improving." — Lindsey McKay, McKay Law
"As both attorneys and parents, we're deeply concerned about the vulnerability of Texas children. A single dog attack can require years of reconstructive surgery, therapy, and counseling." — Lindsey McKay, McKay Law
"Texas follows what's called the 'one-bite rule,' which can make these cases particularly challenging. Many victims don't realize they still have legal options even when a dog has no prior bite history." — Lindsey McKay, McKay Law
"Most dog bites are completely preventable. Whether through responsible dog ownership, proper training, or teaching children how to interact safely with animals, we can dramatically reduce these incidents." — Lindsey McKay, McKay Law
"We've seen heartbreaking situations where families waited too long, thinking the insurance company would eventually do the right thing. By the time they realize they need legal help, it's too late." — Lindsey McKay, McKay Law
STORY ANGLES FOR JOURNALISTS:
INVESTIGATIVE:
- Why are dog bites increasing in Texas cities?
- Are animal control resources adequate?
- How do insurance companies handle dog bite claims?
- What breeds are involved in most severe attacks?
HUMAN INTEREST:
- Interview dog bite survivors (especially children)
- Profile of a reconstructive surgery patient
- Family dealing with aftermath of attack
- Dog owner who faced lawsuit
CONSUMER:
- Hidden exclusions in homeowners insurance
- What dog owners need to know about liability
- How to choose a safe family dog
- Understanding the claims process
PUBLIC SAFETY:
- Are local leash laws being enforced?
- What makes a dog "dangerous" under Texas law?
- Prevention strategies that work
- Role of spaying/neutering in reducing attacks
LEGAL:
- Explaining the one-bite rule
- When landlords can be held liable
- Two-year statute of limitations consequences
- Negligence vs. strict liability claims
MEDIA CONTACT INFORMATION:
For Interview Requests: Harold@McKayLawTx.com Phone: 469-536-8478 Email: Harold@McKayLawtx.com Available: [24Hours/7Days]
For Legal Commentary: Lindsey McKay, Lead Dog Bite Attorney Available for phone, in-person, or Zoom interviews
For General Inquiries: McKay Law Main Line: 903-INJURED Email: Intake@McKaylawtx.com Website: McKayLawTx.com
Response Time: Media inquiries typically responded to within 2 hours during business hours
© 2025 McKay Law. All Rights Reserved.
Media Contact
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Contact Person: Harold Rosbottom
Email: Send Email
Phone: 469-536-8478
Address:15845 Spectrum Dr.
City: Addison
State: Texas
Country: United States
Website: Mach1Design.com
