Woodinville Dog Bite Lawyer

Did you sustain injuries after someone’s dog attacked you? Unfortunately, dog bites often leave victims with physical injuries, ongoing pain, and emotional trauma. Dog bite incidents are more common than many people think, but you’re not alone. 

At Phillips Law Firm, you can trust us to represent you and advocate for your rights as your Woodinville dog bite lawyer. We have over 80 years of combined experience, and we’ve recovered hundreds of millions of dollars in compensation. 

As a personal injury law firm serving Washington State for more than 20 years, we have helped well over 20,000 people in situations just like yours. The sooner you reach out to us, the sooner we can start working on your claim as your Woodinville personal injury lawyer. 

Washington State’s Strict Liability Law for Dog Bites

In Washington, dog bite injuries are primarily governed by what is known as a strict liability law. This means that the owner of a dog will be held liable for any injury caused by the dog’s bite if the victim was lawfully located in a public place or on private property at the time of the attack. 

In other words, owners are automatically responsible for any harm their dogs cause, regardless of whether the dog has bitten someone before or if the owner took reasonable precautions to prevent an attack. Strict liability is an important factor in dog bite cases for a few reasons: 

• Takes a lot of the guesswork out of the process of determining fault
• Prevents the victim from having to prove that the dog owner was negligent or reckless
• Simplifies the legal process and provides a more straightforward path to compensation

However, strict liability only applies to bites. If a dog injures you in another way—such as by knocking you over or scratching you—your case may be handled differently. In these instances, you may need to show that the owner was negligent or reckless in controlling the dog. 

When you hire a dog bite lawyer in Woodinville, WA, you won’t have to figure out how to prove negligence on your own. Rather, your attorney will take on the responsibility of establishing fault in this manner on your behalf. 

The Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Claims in Washington State

In Washington State, the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits—which include dog bite claims—is three years from the day the incident took place. As a result, if you wish to pursue a claim for your injuries, you must file within 36 months of the date the dog bit you. 

If you try to file after this period has passed, you might be barred from receiving compensation altogether. It’s important to take action as soon as possible to minimize your chances of missing the legal deadline. 

Additionally, the sooner you begin the claims process, the easier it will likely be to gather relevant evidence, speak to witnesses, and assess the full extent of your injuries. The longer you wait, the harder it might be for your dog bite attorney in Woodinville, WA, to back your claims. 

Woodinville Dog Bite Lawyer Near Me (800) 708-6000

Dog Bite Injuries in Woodinville: The Scope of Damages

If you’ve been injured in a dog bite attack, you might be entitled to various forms of compensation. Let’s take a look at some examples of damages you could be financially compensated for: 

• Medical expenses: The cost of medical treatment for dog bite injuries can be very expensive. From emergency room visits and surgical procedures to ongoing therapy and rehabilitative care, your medical expenses can add up quickly. Thankfully, compensation can cover these costs so that you can focus on your recovery. 
• Lost wages: If you’re unable to work as a result of your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. In cases where you are not able to return to work for an extended period, compensation can make all the difference. 
• Pain and suffering: Dog bites can cause not only physical harm but emotional and psychological trauma as well. Victims often experience anxiety, fear, and other forms of mental turmoil following a dog attack. However, Washington law allows victims to claim damages for pain and suffering, which can be factored into your overall compensation amount. 
• Permanent disability or disfigurement: In some cases, dog bites can result in permanent scarring or long-term physical disabilities. If your injuries cause lasting changes in your life, you may be entitled to compensation that reflects the permanent nature of your condition.

When pursuing a dog bite claim, it’s important to account for both immediate and long-term consequences of the attack. Injuries such as nerve damage, deep puncture wounds, and infections may require long-term care and rehabilitation. 

It’s not uncommon for the effects of a dog bite to also extend beyond the physical, affecting your mental well-being and daily life. Your Woodinville dog bite attorney can fight for your right to secure a compensation offer that covers the full extent of your injuries. 

Call or text (800) 708-6000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form

Contact Our Dog Bite Law Firm in Woodinville for Legal Guidance Today 

Victims of dog bite injuries often grapple with lasting effects—physically, emotionally, legally, and financially. However, the good news is that Washington State laws offer a straightforward path for people like you to seek justice and pursue compensation in your case.

If you’re interested in holding dog owners accountable for the actions of their pets, it’s time to contact a dog bite attorney in Woodinville. At Phillips Law Firm, you can count on us to protect your rights, negotiate fair settlement offers, and advocate for you as our client.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to our legal team—the sooner you give us a call, the sooner we can start working on your case. We’re here to walk you through the legal process, notify you of your options every step of the way, and help you obtain the compensation you need to recover from the experience.

Real People. Real Justice. (800) 708-6000