Dog Bite Liability in Washington
Whether a dog owner in Washington is automatically liable for a bite, and the deadline to file a claim.
Short answer: Strict liability statute. The owner of a dog that bites a person in a public place, or lawfully in a private place (including the owner's property), is liable for the damages, regardless of the dog's past viciousness or the owner's knowledge of it. Rev. Code Wash. § 16.08.040
| Dog bites | Strict liability statute. The owner of a dog that bites a person in a public place, or lawfully in a private place (including the owner's property), is liable for the damages, regardless of the dog's past viciousness or the owner's knowledge of it. It does not apply to the lawful use of a police dog. Source: Rev. Code Wash. § 16.08.040 |
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| Deadline to sue for an injury | Three years for any injury to the person or rights of another not otherwise listed in the limitations statutes. Source: Rev. Code Wash. § 4.16.080(2) |
More Washington personal injury & wrongful death
- Deadlines to File an Injury Lawsuit in Washington
- Wrongful Death Lawsuits in Washington
- Medical Malpractice Rules in Washington
- Car Accident Claims in Washington
- Motorcycle Accident Claims in Washington
- Pedestrian Accident Claims in Washington
- Bicycle Accident Claims in Washington
- Uber and Lyft Accident Claims in Washington
- Truck Accident Claims in Washington
- Construction Site Injuries in Washington
- All Washington personal injury & wrongful death rules
FAQ
Is a dog owner liable for a dog bite in Washington?
Strict liability statute. The owner of a dog that bites a person in a public place, or lawfully in a private place (including the owner's property), is liable for the damages, regardless of the dog's past viciousness or the owner's knowledge of it. It does not apply to the lawful use of a police dog.
What is the statute of limitations for personal injury in Washington?
Three years for any injury to the person or rights of another not otherwise listed in the limitations statutes.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.