Can You Seek Compensation If You Were Bitten By A Non-Dangerous Dog Breed?
Dog bites are an unfortunate but common occurrence. Every year, thousands of people are bitten by various dog breeds, not just dangerous ones. In many cases, victims may be able to seek compensation for the damages they suffered. But what if you were bitten by a dog that is not considered a dangerous breed? Can you still seek compensation?
Our Seattle dog bite lawyers at Emerald Law Group can explain your legal rights and options when it comes to seeking compensation following a dog bite. We will fight for your rights and ensure that you are fairly compensated no matter how the bite occurred or what dog breed attacked you.
What Are Dangerous Dog Breeds?
The definition of dangerous breeds varies from state to state, but generally speaking, any breed that has been identified as aggressive or has the potential for aggression falls into this category. Some states also have specific laws in place that identify certain breeds as being “dangerous” or “potentially dangerous.” Examples of breeds that may be considered “dangerous” include Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds, and Bullmastiffs, among others.
Can You Seek Compensation if You Were Bitten by a Dog That Is Not Considered a Dangerous Breed?
Yes, you may be eligible to seek compensation even if you were bitten by a non-dangerous breed of dog. While it is true that many states have specific laws in place that make it easier for victims to obtain compensation when they are bitten by a “dangerous” breed of dog (such as Pit Bulls or Rottweilers), there is no requirement that the dog must belong to one of these breeds in order for the victim to obtain compensation. In other words, even if the dog belongs to a breed that is not typically considered dangerous (such as a Labrador Retriever or Golden Retriever), you may still be able to recover damages in certain situations.
What Kinds of Injuries from Dog Bites Qualify for Compensation?
In most cases, any injury caused by a dog bite can potentially qualify for compensation. This includes physical injuries such as lacerations and puncture wounds, broken bones and fractures, tissue damage and scarring, infection, and nerve damage. In addition, victims may also be compensated for emotional distress caused by the incident, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or anxiety disorders related to the attack.
Can You Sue a Dog Owner for the Dog Bite/Attack in Washington?
Yes, it is possible to sue a dog owner in Washington State if their dog bites or attacks you. Under Washington law, dog owners can be held liable regardless of whether or not the dog has bitten anyone in the past (RCW § 16.08.040).
If your lawsuit against the dog owner is successful, you may be able to recover damages such as medical expenses related to your injuries (including future expenses), pain and suffering, and other economic losses due directly because of your injuries from the attack.
Contact Emerald Law Group for a Free Case Review
Knowing whether or not your dog bite case qualifies for monetary recovery can give you peace of mind. If you were bitten by a dog, you need to understand your options for compensation, regardless of whether the dog is considered a dangerous or non-dangerous breed. Our dog bite lawyers at Emerald Law Group can explain whether or not you can sue the dog owner and obtain compensation for your medical bills and other losses. Call 206-826-5160 for a free case evaluation.
Source:
app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=16.08.040
