What are my rights as a dog bite victim?

In Washington, victims of dog bites have several rights and protections. Firstly, a dog’s owner is strictly liable for any damages resulting from a bite. This means that the owner cannot escape responsibility if the victim pursues a legal claim. In addition, the owner must provide compensation to cover the medical costs associated with the victim’s treatment and damages caused by the bite. Victims of dog bites are also legally able to obtain compensation for mental and emotional pain, as well as any loss of consortium (intimate companionship) experienced as a result of the attack. Furthermore, if the dog has a history of aggressive behavior or has been declared dangerous, the court may impose punitive damages on the dog’s owner. These damages are intended to punish the owner for failing to adequately address the aggressive behavior of the dog. It is also important to note that victims of dog bites are typically able to file a claim in Washington, regardless of whether the attack occurred on public or private property. It is important to seek legal help as soon as possible to ensure your rights as a victim are respected and to maximize any potential compensation you can receive.

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What are my rights as a dog bite victim?

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