Spokane Dog Bite Lawyer

We understand the fear, pain, and uncertainty that can follow an animal attack, and we're here to guide you toward fair compensation. Our compassionate team of personal injury lawyers can provide trustworthy legal counsel and unwavering support to help you navigate this challenging experience.

Lehmbecker Law — Your Trusted Dog Bite Lawyers in Spokane, WA

At Lehmbecker Law, we’re dedicated to fighting for the rights of dog attack victims in Spokane and throughout the great state of Washington. Our resourceful dog bite attorneys are known for their aggressive representation and boast an impressive track record of success.

We'll work diligently to secure fair and adequate compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial effects of your injuries. When you choose Lehmbecker Law, you get a team that will stand by your side, advocate for your interests, and guide you toward a brighter future.

Dog Bite Statistics in the U.S. and Washington State

Dog attacks are an unfortunate reality in our community, and they often have serious consequences.

According to the CDC, there were 468 deaths in the U.S. from dog bites or strikes from 2011 to 2021, averaging 43 deaths annually. While the number of deaths fluctuated from year to year, the most alarming trend is the sharp increase between 2018 and 2021, with fatalities more than doubling for both males and females.

Washington State statistics are also concerning, especially for postal workers. As reported by the United States Postal Service, Spokane tied with Seattle as the 23rd worst city in the nation for dog bites involving postal workers in 2022, reporting 13 attacks. Washington State ranked 11th among the top 25 states for dog bites involving postal workers, with a total of 136 reported events.

These incidents range from minor nips to severe attacks with life-altering consequences, including puncture wounds, lacerations, infections, and nerve damage, with bites often occurring to the face and neck. Children, who represent a significant percentage of dog bite victims, are particularly vulnerable.

The Dangers of Dog Bites

Dog bites pose major risks to both physical and mental health. Here’s how they can affect victims.

Physical Harm

Dog bites can cause a wide range of physical injuries, including:

• Puncture Wounds and Lacerations: Bite wounds and scratches can be deep, requiring stitches or other surgical procedures.
• Infections: Dog bites can easily become infected, requiring extensive treatment with antibiotics or even surgery.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: While less common, bites to the neck or back could potentially damage the spinal cord, leading to paralysis or other neurological impairments.
• Nerve Damage: Severe bites can damage nerves, impacting mobility and sensation and potentially causing permanent disabilities.
• Head Injuries: In cases of bites to the head or face, there’s a risk of skull fractures, brain injuries, or other forms of head trauma.
• Scarring and Disfigurement: Dog attacks can leave permanent scars, particularly on the face and neck, which can impact the victim’s self-esteem and social life.
• Untimely Death: Extensive injuries can lead to fatalities due to blood loss, shock, or secondary complications from infections.

Some of these injuries will be immediately apparent, while others may surface over time.

Emotional Trauma

Apart from physical injuries, dog bites can have a profound psychological impact, leading to conditions like:

• Fear and Anxiety: Victims may develop a fear of dogs, even those they previously considered friendly.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): The trauma of a dog bite can lead to PTSD, characterized by flashbacks, nightmares, and difficulty coping with stressful situations.
• Social and Emotional Difficulties: Some victims may experience social isolation, difficulty sleeping, and other lingering challenges.

The mental and emotional consequences of a dog bite injury can be just as costly and disruptive as the physical ones, if not more so.

Dog Bite Laws in Spokane and Washington State

Washington takes dog bites seriously, enacting laws to protect residents and hold dog owners accountable, regardless if any negligence occurred. These laws are designed to prevent bites and provide legal recourse for those injured.

Spokane's Commitment to Public Safety

Spokane County has specific ordinances that address dangerous dogs, including Spokane County Code 5.04, which outlines requirements for licensing and handling of "potentially dangerous" and "dangerous" dogs.

Additionally, the Spokane County Code mandates that dog owners must maintain control of their animals in public spaces, ensuring that they’re leashed or otherwise restrained. Violations of these codes can lead to fines, restrictions on dog ownership, and increased liability for any injuries the dog causes.

Washington's Strict Liability Approach

Washington State law, specifically the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 16.08.040, takes a strict liability stance on dog attacks.

Unlike some states that follow a "one-bite" rule, Washington holds dog owners strictly liable for injuries their pets inflict. This means that in most cases, it doesn't matter whether the owner knew the dog was dangerous or had a history of biting. If their dog bites someone, they’re generally responsible for the resulting damages.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite Accident in Spokane

If you or someone you love has been bitten by a dog, taking prompt and decisive action is key to protecting your well-being and preserving your legal rights. Here’s what to do after sustaining a dog bite injury:

Prioritize Your Health

It’s critical to seek medical attention without delay, even if a bite appears minor. Underlying injuries, such as internal bleeding and infections, may not be immediately detectable and often require professional evaluation.

Create an Official Record

Contact SCRAPS or the police to inform them of the dog attack. The resulting report will establish an official record of the incident, which will be crucial for any potential legal action you decide to take later on.

Gather Key Information

If circumstances allow, try to collect the following information:

• The dog owner's name and contact details.
• The contact information of any witnesses present.
• Photographs of your injuries and the incident location.

You’ll need these details if you intend to pursue a claim for compensation against the negligent dog owner.

Collect Evidence

Do your best to preserve and organize all evidence related to the dog bite, including medical records, bills, and related documentation. This also goes for physical evidence, such as clothing worn during the attack.

Consult a Qualified Attorney

Reach out to an attorney at your earliest convenience. A legal professional can help you understand your options, fight for fair compensation, and guide you through the ensuing legal process. They'll work tirelessly to get you the support you need to heal and move forward.

Understanding Your Options for Compensation

If you've suffered a dog bite in Washington, you have two general paths to seek compensation for your injuries and losses: filing an insurance claim or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit. Here's a breakdown of each option.

Insurance Claim

Most dog bite cases begin with the victim filing an insurance claim against the dog owner's homeowners or renter's insurance policy. These policies typically cover liability for injuries caused by the insured individual's pets.

One benefit of insurance claims is that they often lead to faster resolutions than lawsuits, as they involve fewer formal procedures. They also present fewer legal fees and expenses compared to litigation.

That said, insurance companies are for-profit businesses that seek to minimize payouts. They may attempt to deny or undervalue your claim, requiring negotiation or even a lawsuit to achieve a fair settlement. Furthermore, insurance policies have coverage limits. If your losses exceed these limits, you might not be fully compensated through an insurance claim alone.

Personal Injury Lawsuit

If you’ve been hurt by a dog in Spokane, you have the right to pursue a personal injury claim, even if you’re a postal worker, delivery driver, or other service professional. This involves filing a lawsuit against the dog owner in civil court to seek compensation for your losses.

Washington state has a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including dog bites. That means you must file your lawsuit within 36 months of the date of the incident or risk losing your right to seek compensation.

If your losses exceed the limits of your insurance policy, a lawsuit can allow you to pursue full compensation directly from the dog owner. Such action may also be necessary to hold dog owners accountable for failing to take proper precautions to prevent attacks, especially in cases involving known aggressive behavior or negligence.

However, lawsuits generally take longer than insurance claims and involve multiple phases, which may include discovery, depositions, and a trial. You’ll also incur more costs by taking your case to court as opposed to seeking an insurance settlement.

Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Dog Bite in Spokane?

Although Washington dog owners are primarily responsible for any injuries their animals cause, other parties can be held liable if their actions or inactions contributed to the attack.

Here are some examples:

• Landowners or Occupiers: For knowing about a dog's dangerous behavior but neglecting to warn visitors, provide proper fencing, or supervise the animal.
• Property Managers: For hiring employees with dangerous dogs, allowing tenants to keep aggressive dogs without control, or failing to maintain safe property conditions.
• Breeders or Sellers: For concealing a dog's history of aggression from the buyer or failing to properly socialize or train it.
• Dog Walkers or Sitters: For failing to control the dog, not being attentive to its behavior, or otherwise acting negligently.

A skilled personal injury attorney can identify all of the parties who might bear liability for your attack and subsequent injuries.

What If the Dog Owner Is Someone You Know?

Being bitten by a dog owned by someone you know — whether it’s a friend, family member, neighbor, or coworker — can be a particularly stressful and emotionally charged situation. You may feel conflicted about taking legal action if you’re worried about jeopardizing the relationship or causing financial hardship for someone you care about.

However, it's important to remember that seeking compensation for your injuries isn’t about pointing fingers or getting even. It's about ensuring that you receive the medical care, treatment, and support you need to recover physically, emotionally, and financially from the experience.

Here's how a seasoned dog bite lawyer from Lehmbecker Law can help you navigate this sensitive situation:

Prioritizing Your Needs

We understand the difficult nature of what you’re going through and will always put your well-being first. Your lawyer will listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and explain your options clearly and compassionately.

Spearheading Insurance Negotiations

In most cases, the dog owner's homeowners or renter's insurance policy will cover dog bite claims filed against them. Your attorney can handle all communication and negotiations with the insurance company directly, relieving you of that burden and ensuring the value of your claim is not undervalued.

Exploring All Compensation Options

Your lawyer will explore all potential avenues for a fair resolution, seeking to minimize conflict and preserve relationships whenever possible.

Maintaining Confidentiality

Our legal professionals understand the importance of discretion and will approach your case with the utmost confidentiality.

Your health and well-being are paramount. Our dog bite lawyers are here to support you every step of the way, providing compassionate legal guidance and skillful advocacy so you can focus on bouncing back from your injuries.

What Will Happen to the Dog After You File a Claim?

Many people are understandably concerned about the dog's fate after an injury-causing attack. The outcome may depend on several factors, but here are some possibilities:

• Quarantine: The dog may be required to undergo a quarantine period for observation, usually at a designated facility or the owner's home.
• Behavioral Assessment: Animal control or a qualified professional may assess the dog's behavior to determine whether it poses a threat.
• Restrictions on the Owner: The owner may face restrictions, such as keeping the dog leashed and muzzled in public or attending mandatory training classes.
• Declaration of Dangerous Dog: In especially serious cases, the dog may be declared legally "dangerous," leading to stricter requirements for the owner.
• Euthanasia: This is typically a last resort that’s only considered when the dog poses a significant and unmanageable threat to public safety.

Your lawyer may have some degree of influence on what happens to the dog, depending on the circumstances of the attack and your wishes.

What Compensation Can You Get After a Dog Bite?

If you've been the victim of a dog bite in Spokane, you may be entitled to compensation for various losses. This compensation might arrive in the form of economic damages, non-economic damages, or both.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are intended to provide payment to cover the tangible, quantifiable losses related directly to the injury-causing incident. They can be used to cover the following costs:

Medical Expenses

This category includes all costs associated with treating your injuries, such as:

• Doctor visits
• Hospital stays
• Medications/vaccinations
• Physical therapy
• Surgery
• Ongoing medical care
• Counseling

Lost Wages

Economic damages can also offset any income you lose as a result of missing work due to your injuries. Special caps and other provisions may apply.

Loss of Earning Capacity

If your injuries prevent you from working in the future or limit your earning potential, you may be compensated for this loss as well.

Other miscellaneous expenses you stand to receive compensation for include:

• Transportation to and from medical appointments
• Home healthcare services
• Adaptive equipment to help with mobility
• Lost personal property damaged during the attack

As part of their duties, your lawyer will make a full accounting of your losses and the economic damages you’re entitled to as a result.

Non-Economic Damages

In contrast with economic damages, non-economic damages reflect subjective and intangible yet equally real losses, such as:

• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the pain, discomfort, and inconvenience your injuries cause.
• Emotional Distress: Acknowledgement of the trauma, anxiety, fear, and other psychological effects of the dog bite.
• Scarring and Disfigurement: Payment for the physical and emotional impacts of a bite that leaves permanent scarring or disfigurement.

To obtain non-economic damages, you’ll need to provide evidence of the harms you’ve suffered, such as personal journals or invoices from mental health appointments.

Do You Have a Strong Case?

Thanks to Washington's strict liability law, you’ll generally have a strong case for compensation after a dog bite, regardless of the exact circumstances. However, several factors can influence the strength of your claim and the amount of compensation you may receive.

Factors that Can Strengthen Your Case

The following key elements can all serve to bolster your dog bite claim:

• Injuries: You have a visible injury and you visited an urgent care or emergency room at least once to document it.
• Witness Testimony: Witnesses can corroborate your account of the attack and the extent of your injuries.
• Lack of Provocation: You can prove that you didn’t provoke the dog or engage in any risky behavior.
• Reporting the Attack to the Proper Authorities: There is an official report of the event filed with Animal Control or your local police department.

As long as all the right pieces are in place, you and your personal injury attorney have an excellent chance of recovering fair and adequate compensation.

Factors that Can Weaken Your Case

On the other hand, circumstances like the following could threaten to derail your case:

• Provocation: If you purposefully agitated the dog or were trespassing on private property, your claim may not hold up.‍
• Delayed Medical Attention: Failing to seek prompt medical care can raise questions about the severity of your injuries.

If one or more of these circumstances apply to your situation, don’t worry — not all hope is lost. Your lawyer can advise you on the best steps to take to prevent factors like these from endangering your claim.

Tips for Building a Strong Case

Here are a few simple things you can do (or not do) to improve your chances of securing the financial support you need:

• Gather as Much Evidence as Possible: Evidence like photos, medical records, and witness statements will be crucial for substantiating your claim.
• Follow Your Doctor's Orders and Attend All Medical Appointments: This will demonstrate the seriousness of your injuries and your commitment to recovery.
• Avoid Giving Statements to Insurance Companies: Insurers may try to use your words against you to minimize your claim. Leave the talking to your lawyer.
• Avoid Posting About Your Case on Social Media: The at-fault party’s defendant could use anything you post to undermine your credibility.

Of course, the best thing you can do to protect your rights and interests is to consult a trusted dog bite attorney, who will act as an ally, confidant, advocate, and support system throughout your case.

Why Choose Lehmbecker Law?

Suffering a dog bite can be a traumatic experience, leaving you with painful injuries, accumulating medical bills, and uncertainty about your future. The legal professionals at Lehmbecker Law will do everything in their power to uphold your rights, including the right to full compensation for your losses.

Here are just a few of the advantages you’ll get when you work with our firm:

Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you after you’ve suffered a dog bite injury.