Washington Dog Bite Statistics [2024]

We often consider dogs our loyal companions, but their potential or danger that often goes unrecognized. The combination of powerful jaws, sharp teeth, and instinctual behaviors can transform even the gentlest pet into a serious threat.

Dog bites pose a significant risk to people of all ages, with consequences ranging from minor injuries to life-altering trauma. The harsh reality is that dog attacks occur more frequently than many realize, affecting millions of Americans each year.

Dog Bite Fatality Statistics

According to the American Veterinary Association, an estimated 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs every year. In recent years, dozens of Americans have lost their lives due to dog attacks. In 2019 alone, 48 dog attacks resulted in human deaths.

Statistics on Dog Bite Liability Claims

Recent data from the Insurance Information Institute shows that dog bites have a significant financial impact. In 2023, dog bite claims cost homeowners insurance companies $1,116 million. The number of claims nationwide rose to 19,062 in 2023, up from 17,597 in 2022—an 8.3% increase.

In 2023, the average claim cost $58,545, down 9.3% from $64,555 in 2022. But from from 2014 to 2023, the average cost per claim has risen by 82.5 percent. This overall increase is attributed to rising medical costs and a trend toward larger settlements, judgments, and jury awards for plaintiffs.

Why Do Dogs Attack Humans?

Dogs may bite for various reasons, including fear, protection of territory or resources, pain or illness, and lack of proper socialization or training. In some cases, dogs with a history of abuse or neglect may be more prone to aggressive behavior. Certain breeds may also be more prone to aggression than others, although this topic is highly debated among many people in the animal community.

Certain situations can trigger a dog’s aggressive response, such as unfamiliar environments, perceived threats to their owners or territory, or startling interactions. Children, in particular, may inadvertently provoke dogs through sudden movements or unintentional invasions of the animal’s space. In some cases, a dog may have underlying neurological or behavioral issues that can cause them to be more aggressive and more likely to attack humans.

Washington’s Dog Bite Laws and Framework

If you were bitten by a dog in Washington state, it is important to know that you have legal options available to you. Filing a dog bite lawsuit allows you to recover financial compensation to help pay for any losses that you sustained due to the bite, including medical expenses, property damage, and pain and suffering.

When it comes to dog bites, state laws typically fall under one of two categories: strict liability or the one-bite rule. In one-bite states, you can only file a lawsuit against a dog owner whose animal has a history of aggressive behavior. Essentially, the dog’s first bite is “free.”

Washington, like many other states, follows a strict liability standard. This means that a dog owner is liable for any bites even if their animal has never bitten anyone in the past.

RCW 16.08.040: Dog bites—Liability.

(1) The owner of any dog which shall bite any person while such person is in or on a public place or lawfully in or on a private place including the property of the owner of such dog, shall be liable for such damages as may be suffered by the person bitten, regardless of the former viciousness of such dog or the owner’s knowledge of such viciousness.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Washington

The aftermath of a dog attack can be a scary and disorienting experience. It can be difficult to know what to do next, but the actions that you take can greatly affect the weeks and months to come. After being bitten by a dog, take the following steps to protect yourself and support your future legal claim:

Get Away from the Animal: Your safety is top priority. If you can, get to a safe place where the animal cannot reach you. This may be another room, a building, or a vehicle. Stay calm and call for help as soon as you can.
Call 911 or Animal Control: If you are in immediate danger or need emergency medical care, call 911 as soon as possible. You should also report the incident to the local animal control agency.
Seek Medical Treatment as Soon as Possible: Dog bites can be dangerous, not only due to the force of the bite and the sharpness of the teeth, but also due to the risk of infection. Go to the nearest hospital and get emergency treatment for the injury. If possible, seek first aid to clean and dress the wound before you go—this can help minimize the risk of infection.
Gather Evidence: If your injuries allow, try to gather as much evidence as possible after the attack. Take photos and videos of your injury and the animal. Ask for the owner’s name and contact information if you do not know it already. If any witnesses saw the attack, approach them and ask for their contact details as well. This evidence can be valuable in a future insurance claim or lawsuit.
Contact a Washington Dog Bite Lawyer for Assistance: Once you have received medical care for your injuries, reach out to a lawyer with experience handling dog bite lawsuits. An attorney can provide incredibly important assistance during this time—they can help gather more evidence, prepare your case for court, and connect you with any specialized resources that you may require due to your injuries. With a lawyer by your side, you can focus more on your recovery and less on the legal aspects of your case.

Get Legal Help with Your Dog Bite Claim

If you or a loved one has suffered from a dog bite in Washington, don’t face the aftermath alone. At Colburn Law, we understand the physical and emotional toll these incidents can take. Our Washington dog bite lawyers can guide you through the process of recovering compensation and holding the owner accountable.

We will handle the complexities of your case, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Take the first step toward justice and healing—contact Colburn Law today at (206) 919-3215 for a free consultation.