Dog Bite Attorney Vancouver, WA
A dog attack is a terrifying and unanticipated occurrence that can result in severe harm. In Washington State, it is reasonable to feel overwhelmed if you find yourself in this scenario. It is essential, however, to take prompt action to safeguard your rights, including reporting the dog bite to the appropriate local agencies and authorities.
What to Do Immediately Following a Dog Bite on a Human
Find a safe place immediately if you are bitten by a dog or witness someone else being attacked by a dog. Call animal control immediately for assistance in containing a stray dog. Otherwise, obtain the owner’s name and contact information when it is safe to do so. Then, focus on the victim’s physical health. If the dog bite damage is small, the following steps may be used to treat it at home.
- Wash the wound with water and mild soap, then use a clean cloth to staunch the bleeding.
- If available, apply an antibiotic cream topically.
- Bandage the wound with a sterile dressing.
- Change the dressing multiple times per day.
- Keep an eye out for indicators of infection, such as red streaks, swelling, and fever.
- Consult a doctor promptly if you observe signs of an infection.
- If the damage is severe or breaches the skin, get immediate medical attention. If you do not seek expert care, you are at a greater risk of infection and sickness due to the number of bacteria in dogs’ mouths.
How to Report an Injury Caused by a Dog Bite in Clark County, Washington
Always report dog bite injuries to animal control authorities in the county where the incident occurred. Reporting the dog bite can help the county maintain track of dangerous or vicious dogs, thereby ensuring the safety of the community. Additionally, the dog may be required to be quarantined for rabies testing. Use the following telephone numbers to report a dog bite injury in Clark County:
- In the event of an emergency, dial 911.
- The number for Clark County Animal Control is (360) 397-2448.
- The number for the Clark County Sheriff’s Office is (360) 397-2211.
On the Clark County website, you can discover the right phone number to call if the dog bite occurred in another jurisdiction. You may also visit the Public Service Center in person during regular business hours, by appointment only, at 1300 Franklin Street, Vancouver, Washington, to report an incident. Citizens are encouraged to submit reports through phone or email (animal@clark.wa.gov).
Who Is Responsible for Dog-Related Injuries Under Washington State Law?
According to Title 16, Section 16.08.040 of the Washington Revised Code, the owner or keeper of a dog who bites a person is liable for the victim’s damages, regardless of the dog’s previous vicious behavior or the owner’s knowledge thereof. This is a strict liability statute, which means that proof of negligence is not required to hold a pet owner financially accountable for a dog attack. As long as the victim was on public property or legitimately in a private location, he or she has the right to pursue a claim for damages against the pet owner.
Contact the pet owner’s property insurance provider when you are ready to pursue financial compensation for the dog bite injuries. As dogs are considered to be property, the normal homeowner’s insurance policy covers dog-related injuries. Call the dog owner’s insurance company to report the occurrence and seek reimbursement for your injuries, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Describe Your Case to a Dog Bite Lawyer in Washington
Consultation with a Vancouver dog bite injury attorney is the best approach to pursue the financial restitution you require following a dog attack. An attorney can safeguard your interests during insurance claim negotiations and communication with the pet owner. An attorney can handle the claims process for you while you recover. For a free consultation regarding what to do following a dog bite injury in Washington, please contact us.
