As the weather warms up and people spend more time outdoors, the risk of encountering unfamiliar dogs and potential dog bite incidents tends to increase. Dogs are responsible for approximately 300 dog bite cases each year in the Seattle area (Seattle Animal Control), leading to more than $9 million in bite claims, according to the latest reports by the Northwest Insurance Council. Across the U.S., more than 4.5 million people are bitten by a dog each year. Sadly, between 30-50 people are killed by dogs annually, with 50 percent of dog bite fatalities represented by children aged 10 and under.
If you or a loved one was injured or killed because of a vicious dog attack and a neglectful owner, you deserve justice. Contact a local personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights.
Why Warm Weather Increases Risk of Dog Bites
During spring, people tend to engage in more outdoor activities as the weather warms up, such as walks, hikes, or picnics, which may lead to more interactions with unfamiliar dogs. Because dogs are often protective of their territories, this increased foot traffic near their homes or yards can trigger territorial aggression. Springtime may also bring changes in dogs’ behavior due to factors like hormonal changes, mating instincts, or seasonal allergies, potentially leading to increased aggression.
How to prevent a dog bite
- Approach with caution. When encountering unfamiliar dogs, it’s important to approach them slowly and respectfully. Always ask the owner for permission before interacting with their dog.
- Supervise children. Teach children to approach dogs cautiously and never to disturb them while they are eating, sleeping, or caring for puppies.
- Respect boundaries. Understand a dog’s body language and signs of stress or discomfort, such as growling, barking, raised fur, or a stiff body posture. Respect their space and avoid actions that may provoke them.
- Avoid unknown dogs off-leash. If you encounter a dog without an owner nearby, do not approach or attempt to handle them. Notify animal control or a local authority if necessary.
Recognizing warning signs of a dangerous dog
There are several signs that a dog may be dangerous. Keep an eye out for:
Aggressive body language. Dogs may display warning signs of aggression, such as bared teeth, raised hackles, intense staring, growling, or snapping.
Fearful or defensive behavior. Dogs feeling threatened or scared may cower, tuck their tail between their legs, attempt to retreat, or display submissive body language.
Protective behavior. Dogs guarding their territory or resources may exhibit possessive behavior, like growling or snapping when someone approaches their food, toys, or resting area.
Personal injury claims for dog bite incidents
If you or someone else is bitten by a dog, it’s important to report the incident to the appropriate authorities. Click here for the link to the Animal Bite Report Form for bites that happen in Whatcom County. This helps create a record of the incident and ensures that necessary actions are taken.
In many jurisdictions, dog owners are held responsible for their dogs’ behavior and may be liable for injuries caused by their pets. This includes injuries that occur on public property or when a person is lawfully present on private property.
If you sustain injuries due to a dog bite, you may be entitled to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Consulting with a personal injury attorney who specializes in dog bite cases can help you understand your rights and pursue legal action if necessary.
Seek the help of a personal injury lawyer
If you or a loved one was injured because of the negligence of another, contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights. Let an experienced accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is five to ten times larger with the help of a lawyer. Call the personal injury lawyers at Tario & Associates, P.S. in Bellingham, WA today for a FREE consultation! We have been representing residents of Whatcom County, Skagit County, Island County and Snohomish County since 1979. You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
