Dogs are a great source of companionship that can create a lot of joy. However, any dog is capable of causing injury, which can have serious repercussions and lasting effects. If you have been bitten by a dog, you may have a legal right to sue the dog’s owner under Washington law. Consult a dog bite lawyer in Monroe to determine what options are available to you and initiate your case.
Murphy Trial Law has nearly two decades of experience getting results in legal cases, and we’re ready to help you when you’ve been bitten by a dog.
We understand how painful and traumatic these events can be, and we share this journey with you. A Monroe personal injury lawyer from our team provides trusted counsel and aggressively advocates for you to secure maximum compensation for your losses.
Understanding the Dangers of Dog Bites and Their Aftermath
Dog bites are frightening and can be incredibly dangerous. When a dog bites down, they can exert a considerable amount of pressure, and it can be difficult to get them to release. As such, victims can experience excruciating pain, deep wounds, and additional harm from dogs that tear or shake as they bite.
While the bite itself can cause severe harm, one of the biggest risks of dog bites is the risk of infection. These open wounds can quickly get infected if not cared for properly, which can spread throughout the body or turn into sepsis if the infection gets into the blood. Other types of infections, as well as rabies, are also significant concerns when it comes to dog bites.
There are also long-term emotional effects of vicious dog attacks. These events are traumatic, which can leave victims with PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
They may also develop a fear of dogs or withdraw from the public because of their injuries. These effects can affect an individual’s relationships and overall quality of life.
For a free legal consultation with a dog bite lawyer serving Monroe, call (425) 835-2614
Navigate Liability in a Dog Bite Injury Case With the Help of a Monroe Dog Bite Attorney
According to RCW 16.08.040, dog owners are held strictly liable for the harm their dog causes to other individuals, whether they are on public property or invited onto private property. Unlike states that have a one-bite rule, Washington doesn’t consider a dog’s history when determining liability for a bite injury. Owners are responsible for maintaining control over their dog and keeping them from causing injury.
In most personal injury cases, victims are required to demonstrate that their injuries were the result of another party’s negligence. Under strict liability, though, negligence doesn’t have to be established. Instead, victims must show that they had a right to be where they were and were not goading the dog. Outside of these situations and a couple of other exceptions, owners assume all liability.
Murphy Trial Law can help you navigate liability in a dog bite claim. A dog bite attorney in Monroe from our team can review your case to ensure that you have a legal right to file a claim and help you take the next step forward. Dog bite injuries can be incredibly costly, so we fight to help you recover the compensation you need to get the care you need to recover.
Monroe Dog Bite Lawyer Near Me (425) 835-2614
A Lawyer for Dog Bite Injuries Discusses Exceptions That May Apply in Dog Bite Cases in Monroe
While dog owners are generally held strictly liable for their dog’s behavior, there are a few exceptions to this rule that dog owners can use as a defense.
For example, individuals who are found trespassing on a dog owner’s property can lose their right to file a claim. This is considered a violation, and a property and dog owner isn’t required to owe a duty of care to trespassers.
Similarly, if an individual is attempting to commit a crime, then any resulting dog bites may be considered a defensive measure against an invader in an effort to protect their owners or territory. Dog owners are generally not held strictly liable for their dog’s behavior in these situations, especially since the other individual is also a trespasser.
Another key exception is dog bites caused by provocation from another individual. In these situations, dogs may be justified in protecting themselves and/or their young from persistent, cruel, or abusive actions. Dog owners can use this as a defense in their case if another person caused intentional harm. Young children may be excluded from this exception.
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How Murphy Trial Law Can Help After a Dog Bite
Wondering if you can sue if you’re bitten by a dog is a common question after this type of accident, as well as how much you can recover. The value of a settlement can depend on the severity of the injuries and your other losses, as well as insurance limits and other factors. It’s important to talk to a dog bite attorney in Monroe about what you can recover. Some losses that can be recovered may include:
- Emergency medical care, surgeries, and rehabilitative therapies
- Medications and vaccinations
- Loss of wages or income when you can’t work
- Damaged belongings
- Disfigurement
- Pain and suffering
- Decreased quality of life
- PTSD, anxiety, and depression
- Emotional trauma
- Loss of consortium
It can take time to understand the full scope of your condition and medical expenses. For example, you may require multiple surgeries or face complications caused by infections, which can add to your financial losses. Your dog bite injury lawyer in Monroe talks to your doctors and other applicable experts as they work to accurately calculate the value of your case and negotiate for a settlement that includes current and future costs.
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Consult a Dog Bite Accident Lawyer in Monroe from Murphy Trial Law to Determine Your Options
Murphy Trial Law helps you navigate your dog bite claim and recover compensation for the losses you have endured. These cases can be emotionally charged and complicated, but a Monroe dog bite lawyer from our team advocates for you so you retain your legal rights and can get justice.
To learn more about dog bite laws in the state and how you can proceed, schedule a free consultation with our firm today.
Call or text (425) 835-2614 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form