Tessmer Tips 2012 for
March 19th through March 30th are focused on Animal Law:
Day
1:
Dogs
bite over 4.7 million Americans every year, but only 15,000 – 16,000 victims
are compensated. Dog owners are responsible for their dogs and for the
damage they cause. Often, home owners insurance will cover the damage,
but compensation is rarely offered without the assistance of an attorney.
Day
2:
A license is required to own many animals Texas considers to
be dangerous. This includes coyotes, cougars, chimps, lions, tigers and bears.
There are no laws regarding monkeys, wolves and other animals.
Day 3:
Equine professionals are
protected from liability for property and personal injury damages resulting
from the regular dangers of being around horses. The statute requires the
display of “clearly readable” warning signs to alert participants about the
liability limitation. These limits do not include all accidents involving
horses, so be sure to consult an attorney to explore any options for recovery.
Day
4:
Do
you have a “dangerous” dog? A dangerous dog is one that has attacked
someone or acted like it was going to attack someone while not in the dog’s own
enclosure. If your dog is labeled “dangerous,” the owner must register
the dog, restrain the dog, and obtain at least $100,000 in liability insurance
OR deliver the dog to animal control.
Day
5:
Do
you allow your dog to run loose? If your dog runs out into the street,
causing a car to swerve and crash … then you might be liable for the damages to
that vehicle and any personal injuries to the passengers in that vehicle.
Day
6:
Have
you ever been driving and come upon a cow lying in the middle of the
road? If you were to strike the cow with your vehicle … YOU could be
liable for the COW or the COW’s owner could be liable for YOUR damages…. How do
you know which way it will go? It depends on the statutes for each county
and each road within that county. Be sure to consult an attorney for
legal advice.
Day
7:
Have
you noticed that more and more people bring their dogs everywhere? Most
cities prohibit animals (other than service animals) from entering restaurants
and grocery stores, but local ordinances should be consulted. Pet stores
are known for allowing shoppers to bring their pets. But, who is
responsible if you slip and injure yourself on a pile of s*&t left by the
last dog? It just might be the store …
Day
8:
What
do you do if your neighbor’s dog barks alllllll night? First, you should
probably try to discuss the issue with your neighbor. If this does not
help the situation, you should call your homeowner’s association for assistance
with the barking problem. If that still doesn’t help, most cities have
noise ordinances that could cause your neighbor to be fined. Consult
your city ordinance and give the proper authorities a call.
Day
9:
Being
a responsible pet owner is the best way to keep your animals from being
stolen. However, even the most careful owner can have a pet
kidnapped. Preventative measures include microchipping, secure fencing,
supervision while outside and proper training.
Day
10:
If
you have been injured by an animal or just need legal assistance on any matter,
give Tessmer Law Firm, PLLC a call at 210-368-9708.