Dogs can cause very serious injuries. A study cited by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports that around 4.5 serious dog bites are reported nationwide each year. Nearly 900,000 people are required to seek professional medical care for a dog bite. Being attacked by a dog is frightening and traumatic. It is imperative that victims know how to protect their rights. Here, our Seattle dog bite lawyer provides a comprehensive guide to victims’ rights after a dog attack in Washington State.
All Dogs Can Pose a Safety Risk—But Size, Breed, and Temperament Matters
All dogs—no matter their size or their breed. Indeed, even small or seemingly friendly dogs can bite if they feel scared, threatened, or provoked. With that being said, the size, breed, and temperament of a dog can significantly influence the severity of an attack. Larger, stronger, and more aggressive breeds can cause more serious injuries due to their strength and bite force. Further, specific dogs with aggressive or unpredictable temperaments may be dangerous. The dog breeds that are responsible for the highest total amount of dog bite injuries in the United States are as follows:
- Pitbulls;
- Pitbull mixes;
- Rottweilers;
- German Shepherds;
- Bulldogs; and
- Huskies.
Dog Bites Require Immediate Medical Attention
Dog bites require the proper medical care. If a dog’s bite penetrates a person’s skin, they should seek medical attention. Even minor-looking bites may carry bacteria that can cause dangerous infections, such as tetanus or rabies. Seeking immediate care ensures proper wound cleaning, necessary vaccinations, and early treatment to prevent complications.
What to Know About Dog Bite Liability in Washington State
Dog bite injury claims fall under state law. If you are attacked by a dog in Seattle or elsewhere in King County, your claim will be governed by Washington law. Notably, Washington is a strict liability state for dog bite injuries (RCW 16.08.040). Here are key points that dog bite victims should know:
-
- Strict Liability for Dog Owners: In Washington, a dog owner is held strictly liable if their dog bites someone in a public place or lawfully on private property. In other words, the owner is responsible for the victim’s injuries—even if the dog had no prior history of aggression and even if the owner took reasonable precautions to prevent the attack. A dog owner does not have to be found “negligent” to be legally liable.
- Defenses Against Strict Liability: Strict liability is not automatic liability in Washington. Dog owners may raise certain defenses. Strict liability does not apply if the victim was trespassing, provoking the dog, or acting unlawfully at the time of the bite. For example, a person breaking into a home and being bitten by a guard dog would not be eligible for compensation under our state’s strict liability law.
- Statute of Limitations (Three Years): Dog bite injury claims are time-sensitive. Dog bite claims in Washington must be filed within three years of the incident. If a claim is not filed within a timely manner, the dog bite victim may be denied compensation. Be proactive: Speak to a Seattle dog bite lawyer right away after an attack.
A Negligent Third Party May Bear Liability for a Dog Bite
In certain cases, other parties, such as landlords or property owners, may also be held liable if they knowingly allowed a dangerous dog on their premises. Most often, these types of claims—meaning claims against a non-owner—are not strict liability cases. Instead, they are common law negligence claims. Victims must be prepared to prove that the third-party defendant’s negligence played a role in allowing the attack to happen.
What to Do After Being Bitten By a Dog in Seattle
Were you or your loved one attacked by a dangerous dog in Seattle, King County, or elsewhere in Washington State? It is imperative that you take immediate action to protect your safety, well-being, and legal rights. Here is what dog bite victims need to know about the steps that they should take.
- Get to Safety: Safety comes first. You need to get away from the dangerous dog. Move away from the dog to a secure location to prevent further injuries.
- Seek Medical Care: Your dog bite injury should be evaluated and treated by a dog. Not only is this key for your health, but it is also necessary for any future personal injury claim.
- Document the Attack: You should take photos of your injuries, the location, and the dog and gather any witness contact information.
- Report the Dog Bite: The dog bite attack should be reported to the appropriate parties, including the owner of the animal.
- Speak to a Lawyer: Before you agree to provide a statement to any insurance company, you should consult with an experienced Seattle dog bite lawyer.
Recovering the Maximum Compensation for a Dog Bite
A dog bite can cause very serious injuries. It is crucial that victims and families are able to secure the maximum available financial compensation. Unfortunately, dog owners and their insurance companies can make the claims process difficult for victims. Our Seattle dog bite injury lawyers help victims fight for the absolute maximum financial compensation, including:
- Emergency medical treatment;
- Hospital bills and other health costs;
- Medications or medical equipment;
- Physical therapy and rehabilitative care;
- Mental health counseling;
- Loss of current and future income;
- Pain and suffering and mental distress;
- Reduced quality of life; and
- Wrongful death of a family member.
Consult With Our Seattle, WA, Dog Bite Injury Attorney Today
At Seattle Car Accident Law Firm, our Seattle dog bite injury lawyers are committed to fighting for justice and the maximum financial compensation for victims and families. If you or your loved one was attacked by a dangerous dog, we are more than ready to help. Call us at (564) 444-7708 or contact us online to arrange a consultation at no cost, with no strings attached. With an office in Seattle, we represent dog bite victims in King County and throughout the wider region of Washington.
