Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Renton Washington Attorneys

Dog Bite Injuries


South King County Dog Bite Injury Attorney

If you have suffered a dog bite injury, it is a good idea to have your case reviewed by Boyd Buckingham, a specialist in dog bite issues.  He offers a free consultation for your serious injuries or the tragic loss of a family member.  We represent clients bitten or attacked by all breeds of dogs, including:

  • Alaskan Malamutes
  • Boxers
  • Chow chows
  • Dalmatians
  • Doberman Pinschers
  • German Shepherds
  • Huskies
  • Pit bulls
  • Rottweilers

What To Do After A Dog Bite

After a dog has bitten you or your child, it is critical to identify the owner or caretaker as soon as possible. Find out the age of the dog and what breed it is. Get contact information for the owner of person in charge of the dog as well as any witnesses.  Ask the owner if the dog has any diseases and is up to date on vaccinations.

As soon as possible after a dog bite, seek emergency medical attention and treatment. Tell the treating physician that you have been bitten by a dog and have them evaluate you for injuries and potential illnesses. If you have been bitten in the face, ask to have your injury looked at by a cosmetic surgeon or plastic surgery specialist.

Types of Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bites can cause serious harm and possibly disfigurement, especially if the victim is bitten in the face.  Dog bite injuries may involve:

  • Abrasions
  • Broken bones
  • Eye injuries
  • Facial disfigurement
  • Finger injuries
  • Infections
  • Lacerations
  • Neck injuries
  • Nose injuries
  • Punctures
  • Rabies
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Vision loss

Compensation for Dog Bite Injuries

In the state of Washington, dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries caused to others by their dog.  A dog owner may be held financially responsible for injuries sustained even if they were not present or the dog had escaped and was running loose. Boyd Buckingham can help you recover damages for:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Medical bills
  • Cosmetic surgery
  • Lost wages
  • Other accident related expenses

Victims of dog bites and even dog owners may not be aware that a dog bite injury may be covered under insurance. Many homeowner insurance policies and renter insurance policies cover dog bite injuries.  An umbrella policy may also cover animal inflicted injuries. Whether or not insurance is involved, we can help you recover damages for dog bite injuries or animal attacks from the owner of the dog.

What happens to the Dog?

Sometimes victims of serious dog bite injuries are afraid that by seeking damages against the dog’s owner that something bad will happen to the dog.  In most cases, nothing happens to the dog.  It may be declared a “potentially dangerous dog” or a “vicious dog.”  If you have concerns about the dog’s welfare, consulting with King County Animal Control and Boyd Buckingham will help ease your fears.

To schedule a free evaluation, call the law offices of Boyd Buckingham at (425) 228-6662.