Dog Bite Injury Lawyer in Tumwater, WA
When Man’s Best Friend Causes Harm
A dog attack can leave lasting scars — both physical and emotional. Even friendly pets can bite unexpectedly, leaving victims facing painful injuries, costly medical bills, and anxiety about being near animals again. At Bluhm Morgan PLLC, our dog bite lawyers in Tumwater represent victims across Olympia, Lacey, and surrounding communities who’ve been hurt by aggressive or uncontrolled dogs.
Washington law protects dog bite victims by holding owners responsible for their pets’ actions. Whether you were bitten while walking in your neighborhood or visiting someone’s home, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries.
Understanding Washington’s Dog Bite Law
Under Washington law (RCW 16.08.040), a dog’s owner is strictly liable for injuries their animal causes if the victim was in a public place or lawfully on private property. This means you don’t need to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous — unlike in states that follow a “one free bite” rule.
There are some exceptions, such as cases involving provocation or trespassing, but in most situations, the owner must compensate the victim for medical costs, pain, and other damages. Our attorneys help clients navigate these laws and ensure every step of the claim process is handled correctly.
Injuries and Complications from Dog Bites
Dog bites often lead to more than surface wounds. Victims may suffer deep punctures, infections, nerve damage, or lasting scars that require surgery or cosmetic care. Emotional trauma is also common, particularly among children who may develop fear or anxiety after an attack.
At Bluhm Morgan PLLC, we understand that recovery extends beyond physical healing. We work closely with medical providers and psychological experts to fully document your injuries, ensuring your claim accounts for every consequence of the attack.
How Bluhm Morgan PLLC Can Help
Our firm investigates each case thoroughly to determine the dog’s ownership, prior history of aggression, and any applicable insurance coverage. In many cases, homeowner’s or renter’s insurance will pay for damages, meaning the compensation doesn’t come directly from the pet owner’s pocket.
We calculate your total losses — from medical bills and lost wages to
pain and suffering — and negotiate with insurance companies to reach a fair resolution. If they refuse to offer what you deserve, we’re ready to take your case to court. Our goal is to handle the legal work so you can focus on healing.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dog Bite
The dog owner is my neighbor or friend – should I still file a claim?
It’s understandable to feel uncomfortable about filing a claim against someone you know. However, in most cases, the owner’s insurance — not the individual — covers your damages. You shouldn’t be burdened with medical costs for an injury you didn’t cause.
What if the dog has never bitten anyone before?
Washington law doesn’t require prior aggression to establish liability. Even first-time incidents can result in full compensation for the victim.
Do I need to report a dog bite to authorities?
Yes. Reporting the bite to animal control or the police helps document the incident and ensures proper follow-up for rabies and other health concerns. We can guide you through this process as part of your case.
Compassionate Advocacy for Bite Victims
Dog attacks can be painful, frightening, and emotionally draining. Bluhm Morgan PLLC provides compassionate, hands-on legal representation for dog bite victims throughout Tumwater and Olympia.
Our attorneys understand how to handle these cases with discretion, sensitivity, and determination. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case directly with a lawyer and learn how we can help you recover.