Everett Dog Bite Lawyer

Washington is a strict liability state for dog bites. If a dog bites you or a member of your family, the dog's owner is legally responsible for your injuries regardless of whether the dog has ever bitten anyone before. The so-called one bite rule that applies in some states does not exist in Washington. Foster Law Offices helps dog bite victims throughout Snohomish County hold negligent owners and their insurance companies accountable, pursuing full compensation for physical injuries, emotional trauma, scarring, and all related costs. No fee unless we win. Call or text (425) 971-5400.

What You Need to Know

Washington's dog bite liability statute at RCW 16.08.040 is unambiguous: a dog owner is liable for damages when their dog bites a person who is in a public place or lawfully on private property, regardless of the dog's prior history of biting and regardless of whether the owner had any prior knowledge the dog was dangerous. This strict liability standard is one of the strongest in the country, and it exists because children and other innocent victims should not have to bear the consequences of an owner's failure to control their animal. Dog bite injuries range from puncture wounds and lacerations to severe and permanent disfigurement, nerve damage, infection, and deep psychological trauma. Children are disproportionately the victims of serious dog bites, and injuries to a child's face, hands, and scalp can require multiple reconstructive surgeries and leave permanent scars that affect self-image and quality of life for decades. In addition to physical injuries, many dog bite victims — both adults and children — develop post-traumatic stress disorder, phobias, and lasting anxiety that affects their ability to work, socialize, and function normally. Most dog bite claims are covered by the dog owner's homeowner's insurance or renter's insurance policy. These policies typically carry personal liability coverage of $100,000 to $300,000 or more. Insurance companies for homeowner's policies still work to minimize what they pay on dog bite claims. They may argue provocation, trespass, or comparative fault to reduce or deny your claim. Foster Law counters these arguments with the plain language of RCW 16.08.040 and thorough documentation of your injuries. Washington's three-year statute of limitations applies to dog bite claims. However, evidence including photographs of injuries, animal control records, and medical documentation should be gathered immediately.

What Foster Law Does for You

• —Identify the dog owner and their applicable homeowner's or renter's insurance coverage
• —Document injuries thoroughly including photographs, medical records, and evidence of scarring and disfigurement
• —Work with plastic surgeons and mental health professionals to address physical and psychological impacts
• —Pursue full compensation for medical costs, scarring, reconstructive surgery, emotional distress, and lost income
• —Counter insurance company defenses including claims of provocation or comparative fault
• —Handle all communications with the owner's insurer while you focus on healing

Why Clients Choose Foster Law

• —Knowledge of Washington's strict liability dog bite statute under RCW 16.08.040 and its application
• —Experience maximizing recovery for children and adult dog bite victims in Snohomish County
• —Understanding of both the physical and psychological dimensions of serious dog bite injuries
• —No fee unless we win.
• —Compassionate direct representation from Jeff or Kupala, from first call through resolution
• —No office visit required. Reach us by phone, text, email, or Zoom.

Frequently Asked Questions

The information in these FAQs is general legal information, not legal advice for your specific situation. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship.

We Handle Dog Bite Cases Throughout Snohomish County