Washington State Dog Bite / Dog Attack Attorney

A dog bite injury lawyer in Washington can step in quickly and gather the evidence needed to prove what happened. They will not only file the insurance claim and handle negotiations with claims adjusters, but they will also fully prepare the case for trial if necessary to ensure that their client is treated fairly.

In addition, a lawyer will work with medical and economic experts who can adequately calculate a dog bite victim’s total losses.

Does Your Case Qualify?

Individuals often wonder whether or not they even qualify for a dog bite personal injury claim. The reality is that if you have been bitten by another person’s dog in Washington, you will likely be entitled to some type of compensation. Even though it may not be immediately clear where the compensation will come from, whether through homeowners’ insurance carrier, renter’s insurance, or through a civil lawsuit, you deserve compensation for your expenses.

If you have any questions about whether or not your dog bite injury claim should move forward, we encourage you to reach out to Colburn Law as soon as possible. We can offer you a free consultation, examine the evidence you have gathered, and help guide you towards the best path forward.

What is the Dog Bite Rule in Washington State?

According to Washington state law, the owner of any dog that bites someone is strictly liable for the damages caused by the bite. This applies whether the bite occurred publicly or when the victim was lawfully on private property, including the dog owner’s premises.

Unlike some states with a “one-bite” rule, Washington does not require proof that the dog had a history of aggressive behavior or that the owner was aware of such tendencies. This makes it much easier for victims to pursue compensation for their injuries.

How Serious Does a Dog Bite Have to Be to Sue?

While any dog bite can leave a lasting impact, not all cases may warrant legal action. Generally, you can sue for damages if the bite results in any of the following: 

• Physical injuries requiring medical attention, such as stitches or surgery, may lead to additional complications or long-term recovery needs. 
• Psychological trauma, including anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), can significantly disrupt your mental health and daily routine. 
• Lost wages or the inability to work due to the injury can potentially impact one’s financial stability and future job opportunities. 
• Scarring or long-term disfigurement that impacts your quality of life, self-esteem, or ability to engage in social or professional activities. 

If you’re unsure whether your case qualifies, it’s essential to consult an experienced Washington Dog Bite Attorney who can evaluate your situation and recommend the best course of action.

Why Do You Have to Wait 10 Days After a Dog Bite?

After a dog bite, the animal is often quarantined for observation. According to The Environmental Literacy Council, this 10-day period is key to monitoring the dog for signs of rabies. Rabies is a potentially fatal disease, and this timeframe is significant since symptoms typically emerge within this period if the dog is infected.

The quarantine ensures the victim’s safety and avoids unnecessary dog euthanasia. During this time, health officials and animal control monitor the dog’s behavior closely, helping to determine the next steps.

What Does a Level 3 Dog Bite Look Like?

A Level 3 dog bite occurs when the dog’s teeth make contact, resulting in a puncture wound between one-fourth and half the length of the dog’s canine teeth. These bites often cause noticeable bruising and may involve lacerations if the dog shakes its head during the attack. This level of bite is more severe than surface-level contact and almost always warrants medical attention.

Victims of Level 3 bites can pursue compensation for medical costs, pain and suffering, or other damages resulting from the incident.

What is a Level 1 Dog Bite?

A Level 1 dog bite is aggressive behavior without breaking the skin. The dog’s teeth may touch but cause no significant injury. While this might seem minor, it’s often a warning sign that the dog might escalate to more severe bites.

Dog owners should take such incidents seriously and ensure proper training or behavioral intervention to prevent further occurrences.

How Many Bites Can a Dog Have Before Being Put Down?

The decision to euthanize a dog after multiple bites often depends on the severity of the incidents, local ordinances, and the perceived risk the animal poses to public safety. Some jurisdictions implement a “two-bite rule,” which mandates euthanasia if a dog bites two times under aggressive circumstances.

However, euthanasia is typically considered a last resort for dogs with no prospects for rehabilitation or those deemed highly dangerous. Courts and animal control agencies evaluate incidents case-by-case to determine the appropriate action.

How Much Money Can I Get from a Dog Bite?

Compensation in a dog bite case varies greatly depending on the extent of injury and other factors, such as lost wages or emotional distress. Washington state victims can recover for:

• Medical expenses: Surgeries, hospitalization, medication, and rehabilitation.
• Lost wages: Where the injury keeps the victim out of work temporarily or permanently.
• Pain and suffering: Compensation for emotional distress, scarring, or long-term trauma.
• Property damage: If the attack resulted in damage to personal property.

Settlements or court awards range from thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars. A Washington Dog Bite Attorney will get the most out of your claim and ensure all damages are paid.