If you’ve been bitten by a dog while out for a run in Spokane, our committed team of runner injury lawyers at CCD Law is ready to help you. We’ll carefully evaluate your claim and advise you on the appropriate steps to secure rightful financial support for your losses. Start the process by contacting us for a free consultation today.
Do You Even Need a Lawyer?
Getting bitten by a dog, regardless of the circumstances, is a difficult situation. However, when it happens during a run, it adds a layer of complexity. The question as to whether or not you need a lawyer to represent you depends on the circumstances. There’s no legal requirement in Washington that says you have to retain a lawyer. In fact, if your injuries are just minor, you probably don’t have to worry about it at all.
However, given that the potential for more extensive injuries exist in these types of accidents, having our experienced team on your side can help you in a variety of ways:
- Explaining your options – The first thing we can do for you is evaluate your case and explain your options. Dog bites have a specific legal statute that you can file your injury claim under, and we will explain that process, as well. Also, this first meeting with our team is free.
- Investigating the accident – If you have a viable claim, we’ll use our resources and experience to put in a full investigation of the accident, including figuring out who exactly is responsible.
- Gathering evidence – The relative strength of your claim is going to hinge on the evidence you can provide. Generally, this will include your medical records, photos, videos, and other things that show the extent of your losses. We’ll help you gather and present this evidence.
- Making the process easier – One of the most beneficial things about working with our team is that we make the legal process easier on you and your family. We’re well aware that your injuries won’t impact just you, but everyone around you. We’ll manage your case and allow you to focus on your health.
Remember, every case is different. As such, what your legal process looks like might not be the same as someone else in your situation. With that said, our team takes pride in our approach, and strives to give every one of our clients the personalized, tailored attention their case deserves.
What Are Damages in These Types of Claims?
Although it’s a bit different than a normal dog bite incident, the fact remains that you still have the ability to file a claim for damages after being bitten while out on a run. In fact, taking the step to file a claim after the dog bite is crucial for your recovery. It allows you to seek financial support, legally known as “damages,” that cover the harm and financial losses you experienced due to the incident.
Before you get to that part, though, you’ll need to understand how liability works in a dog bite claim in Washington.
Liability
Like any injury claim, a dog bite has certain requirements for establishing the liability. While negligence is the key for establishing liability for a normal car accident or similar type incident, a dog bite is a bit different. Under Washington law, liability in dog bites falls squarely on:
- The dog’s owner, which has “strict liability” for any damages their dog causes.
If you get injured from a dog bite, it’s important because it means you’ll file a claim against the dog owner. It’s crucial to gather info about the owner and their insurance since these factors play a big role in representing them during the claims process. Another important part is knowing the specific damages you can seek compensation for.
Damages
In a typical dog bite claim, the recoverable damages include:
- Medical costs – This covers financial support for hospital visits, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and any ongoing treatment needed after a dog bite. It ensures you can access necessary care without financial concerns.
- Lost wages – If a dog bite prevents you from working and earning, this aspect ensures you receive financial support for the income lost during the recovery period.
- Pain and suffering – Beyond physical pain, dog bites often lead to significant mental anguish. These damages provide financial support for the emotional challenges you endure. Additionally, separate damages could be available for the emotional distress caused by the incident.
- Property damage – In some cases, dogs may cause damage to your belongings during an attack. These damages ensure you receive repair or replacement costs for these items.
- Scarring and disfigurement – Dog bites can leave lasting marks or alter your appearance, causing emotional and psychological distress. These damages are designed to address the changes experienced.
Although the dog’s owner is responsible for covering your injuries, you’ll actually be dealing with their insurance carrier. As such, this can be challenging, as their goal is often to minimize payouts. Having our experienced lawyers on your side is beneficial. We understand how to navigate and negotiate with insurance companies, we’ll make sure your claim for damages is as strong as it can be. This allows you to focus on your recovery without the added stress of legal responsibilities.
How Do You Strengthen Your Claim?
Again, just because the law is on your side in terms of liability, your actions–or inactions–after the actual bite happens is very important to your overall claim. The strength of your claim, then, greatly influences your ability to recover from whatever injuries you experience. To strengthen your claim, you’ll want to take the following steps:
- Seek medical care right away – Dog bites can cause severe injuries and infections. Address even seemingly minor wounds promptly to prevent complications.
- Identify the dog owner – If possible, collect the owner’s name, contact information, and details of any witnesses. This information is crucial for establishing liability and seeking damages.
- Report the incident to animal control – Notify the local animal control agency or police department about the dog bite. They can help locate the dog and assess its history of aggressive behavior.
- Document what happened – Take photos of your injuries and the location of the attack. Provide a detailed description, including the date, time, and location, along with relevant information about the dog and its owner.
Common Injuries
Being bitten by a dog while running in Spokane combines two distinct types of accidents: a pedestrian accident and a dog bite. As you might expect, there are similar types of injuries that are seen across these incidents:
- Puncture wounds to your legs, ankles, and feet
- Cuts and bruises from falls
- Infections near the bite area
- Broken bones or fractures
- Scarring or other disfigurement
- Nerve damage, in severe cases
- Emotional and psychological damage
Regardless of your level of injury, these incidents can have far-reaching implications for you and your family. That’s why the legal process is so important, and our team will be there to guide you every step of the way.
Spokane Dog Bite Lawyers You Can Count On
No matter what the circumstances are that led up to your dog bite, CCD Law and our team of experienced Spokane dog bite lawyers can help you. Since 1948, we’ve been there for Spokane injury victims. If you’re out for a run and experience a dog bite, don’t wait. Contact us today to set up your free consultation and get the recovery process started.
