Dog attacks cause serious injuries, especially to children, including deep puncture wounds, scarring, nerve damage, and lasting emotional trauma. Washington's dog-bite law is strict, making owners liable for bites in most circumstances. Injury Claim Team connects Washington dog attack victims with attorneys who pursue full compensation.
Washington's Strict Liability Dog Bite Law
Under RCW 16.08.040, a dog owner is liable for damages when their dog bites a person who is lawfully in a public place or lawfully on private property, regardless of the dog's prior behavior. Unlike some states, Washington does not give owners a 'one free bite' — liability attaches even for a first bite.
Injuries from Dog Attacks
Dog bites can cause puncture wounds, lacerations requiring stitches or surgery, infections, permanent scarring, nerve and tissue damage, and psychological trauma. Children are especially vulnerable to facial and severe injuries.
Who Pays for a Dog Bite Claim
Compensation usually comes through the owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance. An attorney can identify the applicable coverage and pursue the full value of medical bills, scarring, and pain and suffering.
Deadlines and Comparative Fault
Washington's three-year statute of limitations under RCW 4.16.080 generally applies to dog bite claims. Provocation and trespass defenses may reduce or bar recovery, and the pure comparative negligence rule (RCW 4.22.005) can apply to apportion fault.
No fee unless you win. Our network attorneys handle Washington dog bite cases on contingency. Your case review is always free — call 973-566-5599 or request a review online and a specialist will reach out within the hour.
Dog Bite FAQs in Washington
Nothing upfront. Our network attorneys work on contingency — no fee unless they win compensation for you. Your case review is always free and confidential.
Most Washington personal injury claims must be filed within three years of the injury under RCW 4.16.080, though some claim types and government claims have shorter or different deadlines. Acting quickly protects your rights.
Washington follows pure comparative negligence (RCW 4.22.005), so you can recover even if you were partly at fault. Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault, not eliminated.
Call 973-566-5599 or request a free case review online. A specialist will review your case at no cost and connect you with an experienced Washington attorney — and reach out within the hour.