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Understanding Your Rights: Dealing with Dog Bites in Seattle/Tacoma

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Dog bites can be incredibly traumatic events, causing both physical and emotional injuries that leave lasting effects. If you or a loved one has been the victim of a dog bite in Seattle or Tacoma, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and protections.

At Craig Swapp & Associates, we’re a team of dedicated Seattle/Tacoma dog bite lawyers ready to help you understand your rights in dog bite cases and navigate the complexities of Washington dog bite laws.

Legal Rights of Dog Bite Victims

Washington State has strict liability laws regarding dog bites. This means the owner of the dog is generally held responsible for any injuries caused by their pet, regardless of the dog’s past behavior or whether the owner knew the dog might be dangerous.

As a victim, you have several important legal rights:

Report the Dog Bite Incident – It’s imperative to report the dog bite to your local animal control agency as soon as possible. This creates an official record of the incident and helps protect the safety of others.
Recover Damages for Injuries – Under Washington law, dog bite victims can seek compensation for their injuries. This compensation can cover costs such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and potential future medical treatment related to scarring or disfigurement.
File a Lawsuit – If negotiations with the dog owner’s insurance company are unsuccessful, you may need to file a lawsuit to recover the compensation you deserve. An experienced Washington dog bite lawyer can handle the legal process and ensure your rights are protected.

Dealing with the aftermath of a dog bite can be overwhelming. A skilled lawyer will understand the complexities of Washington dog bite laws and work tirelessly to obtain the best possible outcome in your case.

Right Actions to Take After the Dog Bite Incident

If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Seattle/Tacoma, taking the right steps can help strengthen your potential legal case:

Seek Immediate Medical Attention – Thoroughly clean the wound, then visit a doctor right away. Even seemingly minor bites can turn into serious infections.
Identify the Owner – If possible, get the dog owner’s name, contact information, and insurance details.
Gather Evidence – Take photos of the injuries, the scene of the attack, and try to obtain the names of any witnesses.
Contact a Lawyer – An experienced dog bite lawyer in Seattle/Tacoma can advise you on your legal options and the strength of your case. – A dog bite can have lasting physical and emotional consequences. Protect yourself and your future by taking these proactive steps.

Dog Bite Injuries and Compensation Claims Process

The journey to securing compensation is multifaceted, involving medical assessments, legal strategizing, and often, negotiations. The claims process typically involves:

Filing an Insurance Claim – Initiating a claim against the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance policy is a common first step.
Legal Consultation – A Seattle/Tacoma dog bite lawyer can evaluate the offer from the insurance company and advise whether it meets your needs.
Negotiation or Litigation – If the offer is insufficient, your attorney may negotiate for a better settlement or proceed to litigate the case in court.

At Craig Swapp & Associates, we understand the complexities of dog bite compensation in Seattle/Tacoma. Our dedicated Seattle/Tacoma dog bite lawyers will advocate fiercely on your behalf, working to secure the compensation you need for a full recovery. We’ll handle all communications with insurance companies, carefully gather evidence, and fight for your best interests in all legal proceedings.

Call us today to schedule your free consultation. Let’s guide you through the legal process.

Written By: Ryan Swapp Legal Review By: Craig Swapp

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Client Reviews

“I was concerned with all the paperwork”

Before calling your firm I had 2 big worries. One was I didn’t want to do more paper work, and that fear was resolved when I had to do very little, but Craig Swapp and Assoc. did most of it, and when I did have to come in to sign papers they worked around the times I could do it. Worry 2 was I didn’t want people to think I was “sue happy” and that I was just out to get money. I just wanted my bills to be paid for that were from the accident, and that was resolved I think by Mr. Wes Mortenson and Theresa because they listened to what I had to say.

Amber W.,

Spokane, WA

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My biggest fear was not having all the expenses caused by the accident paid for in full. I was assured they would be taken care of but I admit I was skeptical. When we wrapped everything up (which happened quicker than I was originally told) I had extra money in my pocket. I honestly thought there was a catch but my attorney explained everything to me in detail. If I am ever in that position again I’ll be giving Craig Swapp a call.

Robert N.,

Spokane, WA

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I was afraid of the fees I would have to pay a lawyer. I waited over a year before hiring your law firm. I finally reached out to your online help where they were able to help me understand the process and what would happen. In all honesty I absolutely loved working with the individuals that were involved in my case. They were genuine & heartfelt about my case. It felt as though they really cared and were concerned about me, not just as a client but as a person.

Lacey B.,

Salt Lake City, UT

"I was afraid that my issue was too small"

I was afraid that my issue was too small to be handled, and that it would just be rejected. Or that I’d end up having to pay for my medical expenses and any of your teams expenses. I would definitely answer yes, it was resolved! I wasn’t ever made out to feel like my little issue didn’t matter, and my expenses were paid for- just what I wanted/needed.

J. Rohas,

Caldwell, ID

"I am very pleased with the results"

My biggest fear was that it would be pointless to pursue legal action in my case. I felt like maybe I didn’t have much of a case. After speaking with Paul, I realize it was not of my own fault and that others can be held responsible for the pain and suffering I went through.

Dollie J.,

West Jordan, UT

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