Bellevue Dog Bite Injury Lawyer - Animal Attack Attorney
Fighting for the Injured After Dog Attacks in Washington State
Dog Bites Can Cause Serious Injuries
Dog attacks can happen suddenly-and the results can be devastating. Victims often suffer puncture wounds, deep lacerations, infections, and permanent scarring or nerve damage. In some cases, a bite may lead to severe psychological trauma, especially for children.
At Cascade Injury Law, our Bellevue dog bite lawyer represents both adults and children who've been bitten or attacked by dogs. We understand how traumatic these events can be and fight to recover full compensation for medical care, emotional harm, and more.
Strict Liability for Bites
Washington Dog Bite Law
Under Washington's strict liability statute (RCW 16.08.040), a dog owner is liable if their dog bites someone:
- In a public place, or
- On private property (including the dog owner's), if the victim was lawfully present
This means the victim generally does not need to prove the dog had bitten anyone before or that the owner was negligent. Unless the bite was provoked, the dog owner is responsible for damages.
Our attorneys help dog bite victims in Bellevue and the Greater Seattle/Tacoma/Everett area understand their rights and build strong claims under Washington law.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
Taking the right steps after a dog bite can make a big difference in your recovery-and in your claim:
01
Get medical care immediately, even for small wounds (infection or rabies risk)
02
Report the incident to animal control or local authorities to document it
03
Identify the dog and its owner
04
Photograph injuries, the dog, and the location if possible
05
Get contact info for any witnesses
06
Avoid making statements to insurance companies without an attorney
Reach out to a dog attack injury attorney early to protect your legal rights.
Compensation for Dog Attacks
If you were bitten or attacked by a dog in Bellevue, you may be entitled to compensation for:
01
Emergency care, wound treatment, and reconstructive surgery
02
Psychological counseling for trauma or PTSD
03
Lost income if you missed work
04
Scarring, disfigurement, and pain and suffering
For child victims, any settlement will likely require court approval in Washington-a process our firm is experienced in handling with compassion and care.
Dealing with Insurance
Most dog bite claims are paid through the dog owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance. That said, insurers often:
01
Try to minimize the victim's injuries
02
Claim the bite was provoked
03
Argue the victim was trespassing
Our legal team gathers the evidence needed to refute these arguments and demand fair compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dog Bite Cases in WA
The dog owner is my friend or neighbor-will this ruin our relationship?
Not necessarily. In most cases, their insurance company-not them personally-pays the claim. We can handle the process respectfully to avoid personal tension.
The dog had never bitten anyone before-can I still recover?
Yes. Washington's strict liability law makes prior behavior irrelevant in most cases.
The dog knocked me down but didn't bite-do I have a case?
Possibly. While strict liability covers bites, falls or knockdowns may still be pursued under general negligence or premises liability standards.
Hurt by a Dog?
Talk to a Bellevue Dog Bite Injury Lawyer Today.
If you or your child was bitten or attacked by a dog in Bellevue or anywhere in the Greater Seattle/Tacoma/Everett area, Cascade Injury Law is here to help. Our dog bite injury attorney will work to hold the owner accountable, handle the insurance process, and help you recover both physically and financially.
Your consultation is free-and you won't pay unless we win your case.