What to Do After a Dog Bite on Mercer Island

Posted Friday, June 16, 2023 by Chris Thayer

A report in MyMercer Island reveals that Mercer Island is truly a dog-friendly place. It is a place where dogs wag their tails, have off-leash areas, and enjoy puppy-friendly frolics.

But what if the unthinkable happens? What if your dog bites a person in the park? What if you are bitten and viciously attacked by a dog?

While Mercer Island has specific leash laws, such as an off-leash area at Luther Burbank Park, there are specific animal control regulations that dog owners should be aware of. Further, Washington Laws require owners to take care of and make sure their dog does not bite.

*Washington State Dog-Bite Rule*Washington state law has rules that are substantially different from many states. Many states protect dog owners to some degree. This is popularly called a “one bite” rule, meaning that dog owners had no reason to believe their dog was dangerous.

In Washington, a specific rule (Wash. Rev. Code § 16.08.040) makes the owner responsible for a personal injury by their dog, regardless of the animal’s previous behavior.

The law regarding dog bite liability does not apply to the lawful application of a police dog, covered in RCW 4.24.410.

The statute is quite specific, making dog owners alert to their responsibility for their dog’s actions in or in a public or private location.

*What to Do After a Dog Bite or Attack on Mercer Island*On Mercer Island, likely, you never expected to be bitten or attacked by a dog. However, if you or a loved one has suffered an injury such as a dog bite, it is important not to just brush it off. Our experienced personal injury attorneys recommend taking these steps.

First, seek medical attention for any injuries. This critical step can help you prevent infection, get the necessary care, and calm your nerves.

Depending on the severity of the incident, you may be able to collect valuable information should you decide to pursue legal action. Gather the contact details of the dog owner or walker, such as name, address, phone, and email. Take photos of the scene, including any physical damage and or injuries sustained.

Talk with witnesses and also collect their statements and contact information.

Finally, take notes of what you recall about the incident. It is often easier to remember specific details close to the time of the bite or attack.

*Report to Animal Control Mercer Island*On Mercer Island, you can contact Animal Control to report the incident. If you are hesitating, it is useful to know that an officer may not immediately impound the dog. However, your call can help to guarantee that the dog is registered and also that the animal is appropriately vaccinated.

If you are contemplating seeking damages for your injury, you may want to talk with an experienced lawyer to evaluate your case, determine fault, and discuss the legal process.

*Rely on a Dedicated King County Attorney*For a free consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney in Mercer Island, contact Pivotal Law Group, PLLC. You can schedule a visit virtually, at home, as well as at a hospital.