Seattle Dog Bite & Animal Attack Lawyer

In Washington state, a dog owner may be held liable if their dog causes injury, regardless of whether the owner felt their dog was dangerous or not. A dog bite and animal attack lawyer in Seattle, WA, can help you file a strong claim.

The team at Phillips Law Firm has over 80 years of combined experience serving Washington state. Our Seattle personal injury lawyers always fight for maximum compensation. Over the years, we have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for clients. Call us today for a free case evaluation.

Strong Support from Seattle Dog Bite & Animal Attack Attorneys

Trust is the foundation of every client relationship, and we work hard to earn and maintain that trust by consistently being transparent and reliable. From our initial consultation to the resolution of your case, we prioritize open communication, ensuring you are informed and comfortable with each step of the process.

We approach every case with genuine compassion, recognizing the emotional and financial toll that legal issues can impose on individuals and their families. Behind every case is a person with unique challenges, fears, and hopes. You’re not just a case number to us; you’re a valued individual deserving of respect and support.

Washington’s Laws on Dog Bites

Dog bite laws provide a clear pathway for injured victims to recover damages caused by a pet owner’s negligence. Washington does not have a “one free bite“ rule; this means that if a dog bites you, you generally have a valid claim against the owner, regardless of the dog’s previous behavior.

Strict Liability

Under Washington’s strict liability rule, dog owners are held accountable for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of whether they were negligent or knew of the dog’s aggressive tendencies. This means that if a dog injures someone, the owner is liable and must compensate the victim without needing to prove that the owner acted carelessly.

This statute eases the burden of proof for victims, allowing you to focus on recovery rather than getting entangled in complex legal arguments about fault. This framework simplifies the process of seeking compensation.

Exceptions to the Strict Liability Rule

While the strict liability rule applies to most dog bite cases in Washington, there are exceptions. An experienced dog bite attorney in Seattle, WA, from our team will review your case and determine if any exceptions may apply.

For example, the pet owner might claim that you were trespassing, meaning you were on their property without permission when the bite occurred. Alternatively, they could argue that you provoked the dog, such as through aggressive behavior or by teasing it.

These defenses can complicate a claim. A knowledgeable Seattle dog bite and animal attack attorney can help you navigate these challenges and protect your rights as a victim.

Seattle Dog Bite & Animal Attack Lawyer Near Me (800) 708-6000

Available Damages in a Dog Bite & Animal Attack Case

Animal attacks can lead to severe injuries. Our catastrophic injury lawyers in Seattle understand the long-term consequences of dog bite injuries. We will use your medical records and any other relevant evidence to show the full extent of your injuries and recover all your losses.

Types of damages you could claim after a dog bite or animal attack include:

• Medical bills
• Future medical expenses
• Disfigurement and impairment
• Physical rehabilitation and therapy
• Lost wages
• Lost earning potential
• Any property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Mental health counseling
• Lost quality of life
• Restorative and reconstructive surgeries

The emotional impact of a dog attack can be just as debilitating as a physical injury. Our animal attack lawyers will prove non-economic losses by demonstrating the impact of the injury on your quality of life.

We may gather evidence, such as personal testimony from the victim and their family, detailing the physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life caused by the dog bite. Medical professionals can provide insights into psychological effects, such as anxiety or depression.

Phillips Law Firm has a history of successful case results that show our dedication to helping clients get the financial assistance they need to rebuild their lives. Our Seattle dog bite lawyers invest all available resources into the success of every case we handle.

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

You Have a Limited Time to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Washington

The statute of limitations determines how much time you have to file a lawsuit after a dog bite incident. In Washington, most personal injury lawsuits must be filed within three years. However, certain details could shorten or extend your deadline.

After reviewing your claim, a Seattle dog bite and animal attack lawyer from our team will tell you how much time you have to take legal action against the at-fault party. To increase your chances of a successful lawsuit, contact us as soon as possible after the incident.

For a free legal consultation with a dog bite & animal attack lawyer serving Seattle, call
(800) 708-6000

Call a Dog Bite & Animal Attack Lawyer in Seattle

If you’ve been the victim of a dog bite or animal attack in Seattle, seek representation to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Phillips Law Firm can provide you with the knowledge needed to navigate your case.

With our support, you can focus on your recovery while we advocate for your best interests. Don’t hesitate to reach out; getting legal help early can significantly affect the outcome of your case.