DoorDash has revolutionized the food service industry in recent years, letting every type of restaurant offer delivery of its menu offerings, with the company even branching out to delivering things like prescription medications and groceries. That said, the backbone of the company is the many drivers who pick up these items then deliver them to your door in Spokane.
But for these drivers, this means coming into contact with dogs, many of which are protecting their territory. It’s not hard to see how this can lead to bite attacks, which can be very problematic for you as a DoorDash delivery driver. In these unfortunate situations, the experienced Spokane dog bite lawyers at Crary and Domanico, P.S. can guide you through the process of filing an injury claim and getting the financial support you need to recover from any injuries. Contact us today to set up a free consultation.
Employment Status of DoorDash Delivery Drivers and Dog Bites in Spokane
For as convenient as it is to get a DoorDash order, it’s not without its risks for drivers. Not only do they have to make numerous stops at stores and restaurants, they also have to actually travel to each delivery destination. In a legal sense, DoorDash delivery drivers don’t actually work for the company. Rather, they’re considered “independent contractors.” What this means, at least in the context of a dog bite, is that they don’t have health insurance provided by the company. It also means that they don’t have workers’ compensation coverage. All of this could be an issue in a certain type of accident, but because of the way Washington law deals with dog bites, it makes things much more clear.
Dog Bites and Liability in Washington
Throughout Spokane and the rest of Washington, dog bites follow the legal principle of “strict liability.”
Under RCW 16.08.040, dog owners are always responsible for any injuries or damages that their dog causes. More to the point, the law applies in situations where a driver is making a delivery to a customer’s home.
The only case where you might not be protected is if you’re delivering a package outside the area where the property owner allowed you, such as a backyard or garage. Even then, you’d only share some responsibility for the situation, and the owner would still be mainly accountable for any injuries you experience.
Actions to Take as a DoorDash Delivery Driver After Being Bitten by a Dog in Spokane
As a DoorDash driver, when faced with a dog bite, it’s extremely important to take specific actions to safeguard your well-being and establish a solid case. Every situation is different, but there’s a number of things that you’ll need to do. Usually, this involves:
- Immediate medical attention – Your first step is seeking immediate medical help. This is not just about treating the immediate wound; it’s also crucial for preventing infections and potential complications that can be involved with a dog bite.
- Reporting the incident – Report the incident promptly to both animal control and the homeowner. This not only aids in locating the dog but also contributes to reviewing its history, an essential aspect in understanding the circumstances leading to the bite. Also make sure to inform DoorDash so they can document the incident on their end.
- Thorough documentation – Document the incident meticulously. Take photographs of the injury, and provide a detailed account including the date, time, location, and pertinent dog owner details. This information serves as critical evidence for any potential legal or insurance claims.
- Follow medical orders – Follow your physician’s wound-care instructions diligently. The risk of infection, particularly from the dog’s saliva, is significant post-dog bite. Your doctor’s guidelines will hopefully prevent complications such as rabies, tetanus, or cellulitis.
These steps aren’t just about immediate well-being; they are crucial for building a strong case. Dog bites can result in medical expenses and various costs. While Washington’s strict liability law simplifies dog bite claims, outcomes can vary. Our experienced lawyers are ready to support your case, ensuring the best possible outcome during the claims process.
How Does the Claims Process Work in a Spokane Dog Bite Case?
Regardless of your employment status, being a DoorDash delivery driver and suffering a dog bite is not what you sign up for. Most likely, being a DoorDash driver means you’re trying to earn some extra income. So, when a dog bite happens and you’re hurt, it can seriously disrupt your life.
Despite Washington’s strict liability laws, each dog bite case is unique, and positive outcomes are not guaranteed. However, by teaming up with our experienced dog bite lawyers, you can alleviate the burdens on you and your family. The claims process typically follows these key components:
- Free consultation – Begin with a free consultation where we discuss our expertise in dog bite cases, clarify your rights, assess the strength of your case, and guide you through the legal process.
- Insurance claim – If you choose to proceed, our team will engage in negotiations with the dog owner’s insurance company to reach a settlement. This process involves agreeing on the terms of compensation, which may take some time.
- Lawsuit – In cases where a settlement is not reached, we can file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf, initiating legal proceedings that may lead to a court trial.
- Court proceedings – If the case goes to court, both sides present their arguments, and a judge or jury determines the outcome. This process, while potentially lengthy and complex, is a crucial step if a settlement cannot be achieved.
Damages
No matter what avenue you decide to take, the claims process will allow you to pursue damages against the owner’s insurance policy. While every case is different, you can potentially recover the following in these claims:
- Medical expenses and ongoing care – This includes costs for immediate medical care as well as long-term treatments like physical therapy or rehabilitation.
- Pain and suffering – Financial support for the physical and emotional distress endured as a result of the dog bite.
- Emotional distress – Addressing the psychological impact of the traumatic event.
- Lost wages – Financial considerations for income lost during recovery or due to disability resulting from the incident.
- Property damage – Covering any damage related to the dog bite incident.
Like any claim, the circumstances of your accident and the extent of your damages is gong to determine what you’re able to recover. Even when there’s a strict liability, dealing with dog bite cases can get tricky. However, our seasoned team of dog bite lawyers is here to walk you through your rights and guide you on the best course of action.
How Damaging Can Dog Bites Be For a Spokane DoorDash Driver?
Dog bites can be harmful for Spokane DoorDash drivers. Apart from the initial physical harm, they can cause injuries affecting your work and income. Medical costs, potential legal issues, and the psychological impact add to the overall damage. While the legal process is important, the best way is to try to reduce the likelihood that they’ll happen. This can be difficult as a DoorDash driver, but here’s a few things to keep in mind:
- Be cautious around unfamiliar dogs – Approach new environments with caution, especially if there are dogs present. Be aware of your surroundings.
- Don’t provoke or startle dogs – Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that might agitate or provoke a dog.
- Stay inside your vehicle when possible – If you need to wait for an order, staying inside your vehicle can provide a barrier between you and any potentially aggressive dogs.
- Be mindful of dog behavior – Pay attention to a dog’s body language. If a dog appears aggressive or anxious, exercise extra caution.
- Carry deterrents – Some DoorDash drivers carry dog deterrent sprays or noise devices to deter aggressive dogs.
- Communicate with customers – Inform customers about any concerns regarding their pets before arriving. This allows them to secure their dogs or take necessary precautions.
- Report aggressive dogs – If you encounter an aggressive dog during a delivery, report it to the customer and your DoorDash support team.
Experienced Support From Spokane Dog Bite Lawyers
As a DoorDash driver, you can’t afford to be injured or miss deliveries. One of the biggest challenges to your well-being is a dog bite. While most of the dogs you encounter are well-behaved and friendly, any encounter carries the risk of a bite incident. Don’t face these challenges alone. Contact our experienced dog bite team at CCD Law for a free consultation to learn about your options.
