Renton Dog Bite Lawyer
A dog attack is a traumatic experience, often resulting in debilitating injuries and long-lasting psychological consequences. If you are the victim of a Renton dog attack, you may be eligible to recover from your losses by filing a lawsuit against the owner of the dangerous animal.
In these situations, trust our Washington dog bite lawyers at Colburn Law to represent your claim. Our Renton dog bite attorneys will work tirelessly to recover maximum compensation on your behalf, supporting you on your path to recovery.
Why Choose Our Renton Dog Bite Lawyers
- We have recovered millions of dollars for our clients, including $226,000 and $100,000 settlements for dog bite victims. We will work tirelessly to secure maximum compensation for your injuries
- Our Renton dog bite lawyer has years of courtroom and negotiation experience. We will not accept an insufficient settlement and will take your case to trial, if necessary.
- Your attorney will maintain direct communication with you throughout your case. We will always answer your questions and help you prepare for each stage of your claim.
Washington’s Dog Bite Statute
Washington follows a strict liability rule for dog bite lawsuits. Under RCW 16.08.040, Washington dog owners may be liable for any injuries their dogs inflict on a victim who is lawfully in a public or private place. If the victim is unlawfully on private property when the attack occurs, the owner will not be liable for his or her injuries. This statute only applies to dog bites; if the dog injures a person in another way, the negligence (recklessness) standard will likely apply.
Potential Damages in Dog Bite Claims
After a dog attack, you can sustain serious injuries, financial hardship, and emotional trauma. In a dog bite lawsuit, you can hold the dog’s owner liable for your economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages involve the tangible losses you sustained as a result of the attack. Common types of economic damages in dog bite claims include:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Property damage
- Lost wages and loss of future earnings
- Rehabilitation programs
- Therapy
- Prescription medications
Non-economic damages involve the physical and psychological pain and suffering you endured due to the attack. Common examples include:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Mental anguish
- Chronic pain
- Loss of quality of life
- Emotional distress
- Fear, anxiety, and terror
What to Do After a Dog Bite
After a dog attack, it is important to get to a safe location and report the accident to law enforcement. Once you are in a safe place, you should take photographs of your wound, the area around the attack, and the animal, if it is safe to do so. Collect contact information from the owner and any witnesses in the area as well.
Dog bites can transmit serious infections. If you can, perform first aid on the wound before going to a hospital for treatment. Wash the wound with warm soap and water, apply an antibiotic cream, and dress the wound in a sterile bandage. Afterward, go to the hospital and save all medical records. Once you seek treatment, contact a Renton dog bite lawyer for assistance.
Read More: How To File a Dog Bite Report
Contact our Washington Dog Bite Lawyer Today
After a dog attack, do not hesitate to seek help. Colburn Law can help you file a lawsuit against the negligent dog owner, helping you secure the compensation you need to recover. Our Renton personal injury attorneys will launch a comprehensive investigation into your accident and craft a compelling claim on your behalf.
Contact our Washington dog bite lawyers at Colburn Law today to schedule your free consultation and discuss your legal options.