Washington Dog Bite Law and Your Rights
Washington follows a strict liability dog bite rule in many situations. This means that, in most cases, a dog’s owner can be held responsible when their dog bites someone who is lawfully on public or private property, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.
A Washington personal injury lawyer familiar with dog bite claims can help determine how the law applies to your specific Mount Vernon incident, including bites that occur:
- On sidewalks, streets, and public parks in Mount Vernon
- On the dog owner’s property when you are lawfully present
- At apartments, rental homes, or businesses where a dog is kept
Compensation for Dog Bite Victims in Mount Vernon
Depending on the facts of your case, you may be able to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses – ER visits, surgeries, stitches, plastic surgery, medications, and follow‑up care
- Future medical care – scar revision, physical therapy, and counseling for trauma
- Lost wages – time missed from work while you heal
- Loss of earning capacity – if your injuries affect your ability to work in the future
- Pain and suffering – physical pain and emotional distress
- Scarring and disfigurement – especially important in facial bite cases
- Emotional trauma – anxiety, PTSD, fear of dogs, and sleep problems
Every dog bite case is different. A lawyer can evaluate your situation and help you understand what a fair settlement might look like in your circumstances.