Dog Bites/Attacks

Every year in Washington thousands of dog bites/attacks occur, many of which require surgical repair. What makes this statistic even more frightening is that children are often the victims and they may suffer psychological or emotional injuries in addition to permanent scarring.

Dog owners in our state have clear responsibilities to control and supervise their animals. They are liable for bites inflicted by their dogs while the victim is in a public place or lawfully in a private place including the property of the dog’s owner. This liability attaches regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owner’s knowledge of such viciousness.

When a dog owner does have knowledge that a dog is vicious or dangerous, the owner must take extra precautions to protect the public from the dog, including:

• Registering the dog as dangerous
• Keeping the dog in a securely enclosed and locked structure
• Keeping the dog restrained and/or muzzled when it is outside
• Displaying a sign warning people of the dangerous dog
• Maintaining adequate insurance coverage for injuries caused by the dog

When a dog attack causes serious injury, it is important that you obtain legal assistance promptly to secure the evidence and obtain witness statements that will be necessary to prove liability. Statutes of limitations limit the amount of time you have to bring a claim so legal action should be taken quickly to protect your rights. The lawyers at Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler, L.L.P., have handled numerous dog attack cases and have recovered substantial damages for the victims of dog attacks.

If you or a loved one has suffered injury as a result of a dog bite or attack, call the trial lawyers of Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler, L.L.P., now at 866-454-RHHK (7445) or click here to submit a FREE case review. Let our experience work for you. Our initial consultation is free of charge and we only get paid for our services if you receive monetary compensation.