Our Blog
Posted on March 26th, 2026
Key Takeaways Dog owners are legally responsible when their dog bites someone lawfully present. Victims have three years to file, though limited exceptions may exist. Trespassing, criminal conduct, or provocation can limit compensation. Shared fault reduces damages but does not bar recovery. Medical records strengthen claims for physical and emotional injuries. After a vicious dog
Posted on February 25th, 2026
Key Takeaways • Washington imposes strict liability for dog bites under RCW 16.08.040. • Victims must show the bite occurred and they were lawfully present. • Provocation or trespassing may reduce or eliminate owner liability. • Injury severity depends on wound depth, location, and medical complications. • Washington generally allows three years to file a
Posted on January 29th, 2026
Key Takeaways • Washington dog bite law imposes strict liability on owners under RCW 16.08.040. • Delivery drivers are protected when lawfully on property performing deliveries. • Workers’ compensation may cover medical care while owners remain liable for the bite. • Owners avoid liability only if provocation caused the dog attack under RCW 16.08.060. •
Posted on December 24th, 2025
Key Takeaways • Washington imposes strict liability for dog bites under RCW 16.08.040. • Owners are liable when a child is lawfully present during the bite. • Provocation or trespassing may limit liability in dog bite cases. • Children face higher injury risk because bites often affect the face and neck. • Washington generally allows
Posted on November 28th, 2025
Key Takeaways • Washington holds dog owners liable for bites under RCW 16.08.040. • Evidence such as photos, witnesses, and vaccination records helps establish liability. • Attacks should be reported to local animal control to create an official record. • Victims may seek compensation for veterinary bills, medical care, and related losses. • Washington generally
Posted on October 24th, 2025
Dog attacks are often frightening, painful, and at times life-changing. How serious the injury is usually depends on the classification of the bite. Professionals in medicine and law rely on a scale that measures these incidents, from a simple nip to a severe attack. One of the most common questions we hear from injured clients
Posted on September 19th, 2025
Dog bites can leave serious physical injuries and emotional trauma that disrupt daily life. Although any breed can bite, certain dogs appear more frequently in bite reports than others. When people look up dog breeds that bite the most, they often seek safety guidance and clarity on legal responsibility. At Colburn Law – Accident and
Posted on August 29th, 2025
In Washington State, the Beware of Dog sign law is one of the most misunderstood aspects of dog bite cases. Many owners believe that posting a warning sign will protect them from liability if their dog injures someone, but that’s simply not true under state law. While a sign can alert visitors to potential danger,
Posted on June 30th, 2025
In Washington, our dogs are more than pets—they’re family. So when your companion is hurt by another dog, it’s not just upsetting—it’s personal. The confusion, the rush to the vet, the vet bills, and all the unanswered questions can be overwhelming. If you’re asking, My dog was attacked by another dog what are my rights,
Posted on May 7th, 2025
Bicycling in Washington offers breathtaking views and well-maintained pathways. However, dog accidents can turn an enjoyable ride into a stressful event. A seemingly harmless dog can chase a cyclist, leading to collisions and injuries. Knowing what steps to take when a dog causes a bike accident is crucial to protecting your health and legal
