A pitbull’s powerful jaws can cause devastating injuries in seconds. These muscular, tenacious dogs possess the strength to break bones, tear flesh, and inflict serious wounds, which can be life-threatening. When a pitbull attacks, victims often face severe physical trauma, permanent disfigurement, and deep emotional scars that can take years to heal. If you were bitten by a pitbull in Washington, take the following steps to protect yourself and your legal rights.
Should you be bitten by any dog due to owner negligence, contact our Seattle dog bite lawyers for a free no-obligation consultation — call (206) 919-3215 today.
Get to a Safe Place and Call the Police
When you are bitten by a pitbull, your safety is your top priority. Move away from the aggressive dog and find shelter inside a building or vehicle. Call 911 right away to report the attack to law enforcement and request help.
Police officers will not only help secure the scene if the dog is still on the run, but they can also document the incident, interview witnesses, and create an official report. This report serves as crucial evidence for your future lawsuit and helps establish a clear record of what occurred.
Seek Medical Care Immediately
Dog bites require immediate medical attention, even if the wounds appear minor on the surface. Pitbull bites often cause deep tissue damage that may not be immediately visible, and they also carry a high risk of infection.
You might need stitches, antibiotics, or rabies shots to prevent dangerous complications. Visit an emergency room or urgent care center right away. Medical records will document your injuries and link them directly to the dog attack.
Take Photos and Videos of Your Wounds
If you can, thoroughly photograph and video your injuries. Capture close-up and wide-angle shots of all wounds, torn clothing, bloodstains, and where the attack occurred if possible. In the days and weeks that follow, continue documenting your recovery process with daily photos. Visual evidence can help demonstrate the extent of your injuries and strengthen your future legal case.
Call Animal Control to Report the Incident
After the attack, report the incident to your local animal control agency. They will investigate the incident, verify the dog’s vaccination status, and potentially take action to protect public safety. Animal control officers may quarantine the dog and issue citations to the owner. Their investigation and findings provide additional official documentation to support your claim.
Get the Dog Owner’s Information
Obtain the dog owner’s full name, address, phone number, and insurance information. This information is essential for pursuing your lawsuit. If the owner is not present, ask witnesses for any details they can provide. Write down the names and contact information of anyone who saw the attack. Note the exact location, date, and time of the incident.
Contact a Dog Bite Attorney Right Away
Once you have sought medical care for your injuries, contact a Washington dog bite lawyer to discuss your case and initiate the legal process. An attorney will protect your rights and help secure fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. They will investigate the attack, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and take your case to trial if necessary.
Most dog bite attorneys offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you receive compensation. Do not wait to seek help—schedule a free case review and begin your legal journey.
Contact us online or call (206) 919-3215.