Most Washington dog bite claims must be filed within three years (RCW 4.16.080(2)). Children's deadlines are tolled under RCW 4.16.190. Here's what that means.
Washington abolished the "one free bite" defense. Under RCW 16.08.040, a dog's clean history doesn't shield the owner from liability for the first bite.
Washington's strict liability statute holds dog owners responsible for bites regardless of the dog's history. Here's what RCW 16.08.040 requires and what it doesn't.
Under RCW 16.08.040, Seattle dog owners are liable for bite injuries — but recovery runs through insurance, and the early "MedPay trap" can cost you your claim.