Washington Dog Bite Laws

Washington has a dog bite statute that makes owners liable without proof that they knew the dog was dangerous, subject to the defenses written into the law.

Washington dog bite law at a glance

What Washington law says

• RCW 16.08.040 applies to bites in public places or where the victim is lawfully on private property (MSU).
• Police dog handlers acting in good faith are immune (RCW 4.24.410).

Strict liability vs. the one-bite rule

Under a strict liability statute, the owner is responsible for the injury even if the dog never showed aggression before and the owner was careful. The victim does not have to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous; the main defenses are the ones written into the statute, such as provocation or trespassing.

Dangerous dog rules in Washington

• Chapter 16.08 RCW lets local animal control declare dogs dangerous or potentially dangerous.
• Owners of dangerous dogs must register them and meet requirements such as a proper enclosure and a surety bond or liability insurance; Anacortes, for example, requires $250,000 of coverage and a $250 registration fee.

Deadline to file a claim

Justia's 50-state survey lists 3 years as the general personal injury deadline (statute of limitations) in Washington. The clock usually starts on the day of the bite. Different deadlines can apply to claims against a government agency or on behalf of a child, so confirm the deadline for your situation with a licensed attorney.

What to do after a dog bite

1. Get medical care, even for a small puncture; bites can become infected.
2. Get the owner's name, contact details and the dog's rabies vaccination status.
3. Report the bite to local animal control or the health department; many places require it so the dog can be observed for rabies.
4. Photograph the injuries and the location, and write down witness names.
5. Keep medical bills and records of missed work, and talk to an attorney before signing anything from an insurer.

If you own a dog that has bitten someone, follow any confinement order from animal control, keep the dog's rabies vaccination current, and consider working with a trainer or behaviorist. Leash rules are covered in Washington leash laws.

Sources

1. Michigan State University Animal Legal & Historical Center: Washington dog laws
2. Anacortes Municipal Code 6.08.060 (dangerous dog requirements)
3. Justia: Dog bite laws, 50-state survey
4. Michigan State University Animal Legal & Historical Center: Dog bite strict liability statutes