Dog bite laws in Washington are favorable for victims of dog bites. The Washington statute RCW 16.08.040 describes dog owner liability for a bite:

(1) The owner of any dog which shall bite any person while such person is in or on a public place or lawfully in or on a private place including the property of the owner of such dog, shall be liable for such damages as may be suffered by the person bitten, regardless of the former viciousness of such dog or the owner’s knowledge of such viciousness.

This law makes the owner strictly liable for a dog bite.

Dog bites can be very serious, and victims of dog bites deserve to be reimbursed. For instance, dog bite victims can experience physical pain, physical scarring, and emotional trauma. If you have been bitten, you deserve to be compensated.

If you have been bitten, you should get medical attention. Dog bites can cause serious injury and infection. Medical professionals can help evaluate your injury and determine treatment for pain and scarring. Medical professionals can help consult with your attorney in resolving your claim.

We have helped many victims of dog bites receive fair compensation for their injuries. As dog bite lawyers in Spokane, we know Washington law and how to best help you cope with your dog bite injury, and how to receive your fair compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it Matter if the Dog Has Never Bitten Before?

Is Washington state, the law states that the owner of a dog that bites another person is responsible for damages regardless if the dog has bitten before or had never been vicious before. This is called strict liability, and it means that if someone is injured by a dog that bites them, then the owner must pay for their injuries and other economic losses that came from the injury.

What if You are on the Dog Owner’s Property When Bitten?

While it’s true that a dog owner is liable if their dog bites another person, Washington state law has some exceptions. The law states that the person bitten must either be in a public place or have been invited on the property of the dog owner before they can collect compensation for a dog bite.

What if the Bitten Person Provoked the Dog?

Another exception to the law that a dog owner is liable for any injuries their dog causes by biting someone is that if the injured person provoked the dog, then he or she can’t collect compensation. In this way, the law protects dog owners from paying for injuries where the victim was attacking or otherwise provoking the dog.

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