It’s no secret that the Pacific Northwest is one of the most dog-friendly areas in the country. Unfortunately, not all dogs are friendly, and some can turn in an instant. Dog bites can be physically and emotionally traumatic, and they may require a lengthy and costly recovery. Some dog bite victims may suffer permanent damage to their appearance. If you have suffered a dog bite injury and you need help collecting compensation to support your recovery, the dedicated personal injury attorneys at NBF Accident Law will advocate aggressively on your behalf.
Dog Bite Laws in Washington State
As a strict liability state, Washington laws state that pet owners are strictly liable for their pets’ actions, even if they were unaware of their pet’s tendency toward aggressive behavior. In Seattle, several guidelines are in place to protect the public from animals. For instance, dogs may only be off-leash in parks expressly designated as such, and owners must be able to prove that their animals are up-to-date on certain vaccinations, including rabies. As long as you and your attorney can prove that you were lawfully on the land or in the area at the time of the incident and that you did not provoke the dog, you should be able to pursue a personal injury claim against the animal’s owner.
Supporting Your Physical and Emotional Recovery
Dog bite injuries can be severe, leading to complications like facial injuries, permanent disfigurement, scarring, puncture wounds, infections, and head injuries. Victims may also suffer emotional and psychological trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. The medical costs and lost wages stemming from your dog bite injury may cause additional financial anxiety as you wonder how you’ll be able to cover these unexpected expenses. It’s essential to recognize that you are never alone during this difficult time. Enlisting the guidance of the knowledgeable and compassionate attorneys at NBF Accident Law is a great way for you to get the answers and support you need to move forward with greater clarity and confidence. Get in touch today to learn more.
