Dog Bite Attorney in Seattle

Fighting For Dog Bite Victims in Washington

Americans love dogs. There are more than 70 million dogs in the country. Most are kind, loving animals, but there are some dogs that cause serious injuries to people, especially to children, who are particularly vulnerable. When this occurs, dog owners can be held accountable for their pets’ actions.

Typically, dog bites are covered under homeowner’s insurance, but dog attacks can occur in a variety of different locations. Sometimes, even police dogs get the wrong suspect and cause serious injuries to the attacked victim.

Call Bishop Legal today at (206) 260-3316 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our dog bite lawyer in Seattle.

Common Injuries in Dog Bite Incidents

A dog attack can affect a victim on many different levels: physical, emotional, and financial. Permanent scars, nerve damage, tendon damage, and virulent infection can all result from a dog bite. Even death can occur. In addition to the physical pain of an attack, dog bites are traumatic events, especially for children, and can have a deeply negative long-term effect on them.

Our lawyers fight for the full range of damages for dog bite victims. This includes payment for medical bills, future medical needs, lost wages, and compensatory damages for the pain and suffering of the attack. We seek the fair, rightful compensation our clients are entitled to under the law.

The dog bite attorneys at Bishop Legal have experience handling complex, high-damage cases. We represent dog bite victims and have helped them get the justice they deserve for serious injuries resulting from an attack. Our lawyers have a proven track record of results, having recovered several multi-million-dollar settlements for clients.

Our lawyers do not back down from powerful insurance companies or government agencies. We have successfully litigated cases all the way to the Washington State Supreme Court.

Understanding Washington Dog Bite Laws 

Washington State follows a "strict liability" approach under RCW 16.08.040, meaning a dog’s owner can be held liable for injuries, even when the dog never showed signs of aggressive behavior before. In Seattle, regulations such as leash laws and requirements for controlling dangerous dogs can shape your case. These laws ensure that animal owners remain accountable for their pets' behavior and provide clear legal avenues for victims to pursue compensation. You do not have to prove negligence to seek damages—only that the bite occurred in a public space or while you lawfully occupied private property. Consulting a knowledgeable dog bite lawyer in Seattle can help clarify your options under these statutes.

Seattle Animal Control investigates all reported dog attacks and local ordinance violations. The outcome of these investigations can affect both your recovery and the measures taken against the animal involved. Being aware of both city and state rules can help you understand your legal options and how our team supports you during the process. A local dog bite attorney understands how these factors play out in court, from initial investigation through resolution.

Common Causes & Risk Factors for Dog Attacks

Dog attacks can happen for many reasons, and recognizing the risk factors may help reduce the likelihood of future incidents. In Seattle, attacks often stem from improper restraint, failure to supervise, or ignoring a history of aggressive behavior. Although some breeds may have a higher risk, the owner’s responsibility and how the animal is managed make a bigger impact. Many cases involve interactions between unfamiliar dogs and young children, or scenarios in public parks where leash laws were ignored. The city’s dense neighborhoods increase the likelihood of close contact between pets and people, making adherence to leash and licensing requirements even more important.

Owners who ignore warnings or fail to follow city rules put others at risk. Common causes include unrestrained animals, unsafe property conditions, or poorly maintained fences. Seattle’s regulations are in place to reduce those risks and keep neighborhoods safer. Following these guidelines benefits every member of the community and may prevent life-altering injuries.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Dog Bite Claim?

Economic Damages

• Medical expenses: Costs for emergency treatment, surgeries, doctor visits, hospitalization, medications, and follow-up care.
• Rehabilitation costs: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, or other treatments to regain function.
• Lost wages: If the injury stops you from working temporarily or permanently.
• Property damage: For example, damaged clothing or personal items destroyed during the attack.
• Future medical costs: Anticipated medical care if the injury has long-term effects.

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering: Physical pain endured during recovery.
• Emotional distress: Anxiety, depression, or PTSD caused by the attack.
• Loss of enjoyment of life: Incapability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed.
• Scarring or disfigurement: Permanent injuries that affect appearance or quality of life.

Punitive Damages

• Allowing a dog known to be dangerous to roam free.
• Ignoring leash laws or warnings about aggressive behavior.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do if a Dog Bites Me or My Child?

Seek immediate medical attention and report the incident to Seattle Animal Control. Make sure to document your injuries and gather contact information from the dog’s owner and any witnesses if possible. This documentation can help support any future claim for damages.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After a Dog Bite in Washington?

In Washington State, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a dog bite is typically three years from the date of the incident. Taking timely action helps protect your legal rights and strengthens your case.

Can a Landlord Be Held Responsible for a Tenant’s Dog Bite?

Landlords may be held liable if they had prior knowledge that a tenant’s dog posed a danger and failed to take reasonable steps to prevent an attack. However, liability varies based on the circumstances of the case and local ordinances.