Dog Bites and Washington Personal Injury Law: What You Need to Know

Dog bites are a serious injury that can cause both physical and emotional damage. In the state of Washington, personal injury law covers dog bites and outlines the legal rights and responsibilities of dog owners and victims. In this article, we’ll explore what you need to know about dog bites and Washington personal injury law.

Dog Bite Statistics

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, an estimated 4.5 million dog bites occur in the U.S. each year. In Washington state, there were over 600 reported dog bites in 2020 alone. Of those, 34% resulted in injuries that required medical attention.

Strict Liability

In Washington, dog owners are held strictly liable for damages caused by their dogs. This means that an owner is responsible for any injury or damage caused by their dog, regardless of whether or not they were aware of the dog’s dangerous tendencies.

Who Can File a Claim?

Anyone who has been injured by a dog can file a personal injury claim. This includes visitors to a home, neighbors, and even strangers on the street. However, there are some circumstances in which a dog owner may not be held responsible for a bite. These include if the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing on private property.

What Can You Recover?

If you’re bitten by a dog, you can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In cases of severe or permanent injury, you may also be able to recover for future medical expenses and lost earning potential.

Time Limits for Filing a Claim

In Washington, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years from the date of the incident. It’s important to file a claim within this time frame, as waiting too long may result in a loss of legal rights.

What to Do After a Dog Bite

If you’ve been bitten by a dog, it’s important to take the following steps:

  1. Seek medical attention immediately.
  2. Report the incident to the local animal control agency.
  3. Take photos of the injuries and the location where the attack occurred.
  4. Obtain contact information for the dog owner and any witnesses.
  5. Contact a personal injury attorney.

Conclusion

Dog bites can cause serious injury and emotional trauma. If you’ve been bitten by a dog, it’s important to understand your legal rights and seek compensation for your damages. In Washington, personal injury law holds dog owners strictly liable for any injury caused by their dog. Contacting a personal injury attorney can help to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and any associated expenses.

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