Dogs can be very dangerous if the proper safety precautions are not taken. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) cites data showing that “an estimated 4.5 million people are bitten each year.” Were you or your loved one bitten by a dog in Seattle? You have the right to pursue a claim for financial compensation under Washington State law. It is imperative that you know how to effectively navigate the claims process so that your best interests are protected. Here, our Seattle dog bite lawyer provides an overview of the steps to take to pursue full and fair financial compensation in Washington.
What to Do After a Dog Bite Attack in Seattle, Washington
Step #1: Seek Immediate Medical Attention for a Dog Bite
When a dog punctures the skin, it has the potential to be a serious injury. All dog bites require immediate medical attention and the proper ongoing care. Your health and safety come first. They should be the top priority after getting bitten by a dog. Notably, seemingly minor-looking bites can lead to infection, nerve damage, or even scarring.
Note: Washington State law (RCW 16.08.040) holds owners strictly liable for bites, but you must document your injuries promptly. With that in mind, you should go to an emergency room, urgent care clinic, or your doctor as soon as possible. Once you arrive, tell your provider it was a dog bite so they can record it accurately and assess the need for a tetanus booster or rabies prophylaxis.
Step #2: Identify the Dog and its Owner
You should identify the dog and its owner. Dog owners can be held strictly liable if their animal bites an innocent person in Seattle and elsewhere in Washington, even if the incident happened on private property. Still, you will not be able to effectively pursue a dog bite injury claim unless you identify the owner and the dog.
To the best of your ability, try to get the dog owner’s full name, address, and contact information. Ask for proof of rabies vaccination and any license tag number. Under Seattle Municipal Code (SMC) 9.25.081, owners are required to control and register dogs, particularly those deemed dangerous. If the owner refuses to cooperate, note physical descriptions of the dog, its breed, and location.
Step #3: Report the Bite to Seattle Animal Control or Other Authorities
All dog bites in Seattle should be reported to Seattle Animal Shelter’s Animal Control Unit at (206) 386-7387 or through the city’s online portal. Dog bites in other nearby areas should also be reported to the proper local authorities. Why is it such an important step? Reporting a dog bite creates an official record. In some cases, it may trigger a public health investigation. Animal Control will verify vaccination status, identify prior incidents, and, if necessary, quarantine the animal for rabies observation. Their findings can support later litigation or insurance claims.
Step #4: Gather and Preserve Any Relevant Evidence
Dog bites are strict liability claims, but that does not mean that an investigation is irrelevant. Quite the contrary, evidence is key in any dog bite case in Washington. Indeed, dog bite claims succeed or fail on the quality of documentation. You should take photographs of your injuries from multiple angles immediately after the incident and throughout the healing process. You should also record the location, weather, and any environmental details such as fencing or lack of leash. Finally, you should try to secure witness names, phone numbers, and statements while memories are fresh.
Step #5: Notify the Dog Owner’s Homeowners’ Insurer or Renter’s Insurer
Most dog bite claims in Washington are paid through liability coverage under the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. Once you identify the owner, send a written notice of claim to their insurer. Include basic details (date, location, a brief description of injuries, etc). With that being said, you should avoid making recorded statements before consulting counsel. Insurance adjusters may attempt to limit payment or attribute fault to you. Make sure that you have a top-rated Seattle dog bite attorney on your side.
Dog Bite Victims in Seattle Deserve Full and Fair Compensation
Injured by a dog bite in Seattle or elsewhere in Washington? You have the right to seek compensation for the full extent of your damages, including your non-economic losses. However, the insurance companies that defend these claims fight hard to pay out as little as possible in settlement negotiations. Do not agree to take less than you deserve under the law. Our Seattle dog bite lawyers are prepared to help you seek compensation for:
- Ambulance costs;
- Emergency room care;
- Hospital bills;
- Other medical expenses;
- Lost wages;
- Loss of earning power;
- Pain and suffering;
- Mental distress;
- Long-term disability;
- Physical scarring; and
- Wrongful death.
We Do More than Just Crashes: Dog Bite Victims Trust the Seattle Car Accident Law Firm
Seattle Car Accident Law Firm is a boutique law firm that fights tirelessly to protect the rights and interests of injured victims in Seattle, King County, and throughout Washington State. We handle more than just motor vehicle accident claims. Our firm handles a wide range of personal injury cases, including dog bite cases. We know Washington law well, and we have the professional expertise that you can rely on. The reviews and ratings from our clients tell the story best. Your initial consultation with our Seattle dog bite injury attorney is free and completely confidential.
Contact Our Seattle Dog Bite Lawyer Today
At Seattle Car Accident Law Firm, our Seattle dog bite lawyers are standing by, ready to protect your rights. If you have any questions about seeking full and fair compensation after being attacked by a dog, we are here as a personal injury law resource you can trust. Call us at (564) 444-7708 or contact us online for a free, no obligation consultation. With an office in Seattle, we handle dog bite injury claims in King County and throughout the region in Washington.
