Experienced Vancouver Dog Bite Lawyers
Vancouver Dog Bite Lawyer
Find out why we have some of the best dog bite lawyers in Vancouver
Have You or a Loved One Recently Been the Victim of a Dog Bite in Vancouver, Washington?
If so, you need to know about the Washington dog bite injury lawyers Goldberg & Loren. Our experienced team of lawyers specializes in dog bite cases and we have helped numerous individuals like yourself receive fair settlements for their dog bite injuries. Let us take the burden off your shoulders and ensure that you receive the justice you deserve.
Contact our office today to schedule a free consultation.
Washington Dog Bite Injury Law
Under Washington law, a dog owner can be held strictly liable for injuries caused by their pet. This means that the owner can be held responsible for the dog’s behavior regardless of whether they were aware of the animal’s aggressive tendencies.Â
In states with a one-bite rule, the dog owner may only be held liable for damages if it can be proven that the owner knew or should have known about the dog’s dangerous propensities based on a prior bite or aggressive behavior. The victim typically needs to show that the owner was negligent in allowing the dog to harm someone.
In some jurisdictions, dog bite cases are governed by general negligence principles. This means that the victim must demonstrate that the dog owner breached a duty of care, such as by failing to leash or control their dog properly, and that this breach directly resulted in the dog bite injury.
Common Injuries in Dog Attacks
Dog bite injuries can result in a range of physical and emotional damages, often requiring medical treatment. Here are a few examples:
- Lacerations and puncture wounds: Dogs have sharp teeth and strong jaws, which can cause deep lacerations and puncture wounds, often leading to significant bleeding and tissue damage.
- Soft tissue damage: Dog bites can cause damage to muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissue, leading to pain, swelling, and decreased range of motion in the affected area.
- Fractures: The strong bite force of some dogs can result in bone fractures, particularly in the hands, arms, and legs, which are often used by victims to shield themselves from the attack.
- Infections: Dog bites can introduce bacteria into the body, increasing the risk of developing infections such as cellulitis, abscesses, and potentially more serious conditions like sepsis.
Approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur each year in the United States. Nearly 1 out of 5 bites become infected. [1]
- Nerve damage: In severe cases, dog bites can damage nerves, leading to numbness, weakness, or loss of function in the affected area.
- Psychological trauma: Dog bite attacks can cause emotional distress, fear, and anxiety, especially in children, and may result in long-term psychological repercussions.
Vancouver Practice Areas
Collecting Damages from a Dog Bite
Individuals who have suffered dog bite injuries have the right to seek compensation for the damages they have incurred. Here are some examples of compensation:
- Medical expenses: This covers the costs of medical treatment, including hospitalization, surgery, medication, rehabilitation, therapy, and any other necessary medical services resulting from the dog bite.
- Pain and suffering: This can include compensation for the physical pain experienced during and after the attack, as well as the mental anguish and emotional distress resulting from the incident.
- Lost wages: If the dog bite injury causes the victim to miss work, they may be entitled to compensation for lost income. This can also include future lost earning capacity if the injuries result in long-term or permanent disability.
- Property damage: The victim may be entitled to compensation for any damage to personal property, such as torn clothing or broken personal items, sustained during the attack.
- Scarring and disfigurement: Compensation for any visible scarring or disfigurement resulting from the dog bite, which can include the costs of cosmetic or reconstructive surgery to address the disfigurement.
- Emotional distress: Damages for the psychological impact and emotional trauma resulting from the dog bite, including anxiety, fear, and mental anguish.
Home insurance providers spent an estimated $1.136 billion on dog-related claims in 2022. [2]
Dog Bite Lawyer Goldberg & Loren
With the expertise and experience of our Vancouver personal injury lawyers, we:
- Have a track record of success in securing maximum compensation for our clients
- Are well-versed in the laws and regulations surrounding dog bites
- Are dedicated to obtaining justice for those who have suffered physical and emotional trauma
- Understand the complexities of these cases
- Are committed to providing personalized attention to each client
- Will guide you through the legal process with compassion and professionalism
- Are committed to fighting for the rights of dog bite victimsÂ
- Strive to hold negligent pet owners accountable for their actions
Have you recently experienced a dog bite injury that has left you in pain and suffering?
Contact Goldberg & Loren today for a free consultation and let us help you navigate the complexities of Washington dog bite injury law. Don’t wait, take action now and get the justice you deserve.
Sources:
[1] Quick Statistics – DogsBite.org. (n.d.). DogsBite.org – Some Dogs Don’t Let Go. https://www.dogsbite.org/dog-bite-statistics-quick-statistics.php
[2]Bieber, C. (2023, October 2). Dog Attack Statistics By Breed 2023. Forbes Advisor. https://www.forbes.com/advisor/legal/dog-attack-statistics-breed/
We fight hard for our clients who have been bitten by a dog in Vancouver, Washington. Our personal injury lawyers fight for maximum compensation.
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