Russell & Hill, PLLC

Dogs, despite their cuddly appearance and even in the face of long-term ownership, are unpredictable creatures that can turn into killing machines at the drop of a hat. Dog bite attacks are much too common in the United States, with millions of people bitten by aggressive dogs each year. Dogs need no provocation to attack; they can go from mild-mannered pooches to maneaters at the drop of a hat. Oftentimes, they prey on the most vulnerable in our society—children and the elderly—leaving behind a trail of destruction with every snarl. If you or someone you love has been attacked by a dog, you need to speak with our dog bite team at Russell and Hill right away to discuss your case details. Dog owners have a legal duty in Washington State to keep their dogs under control or on a leash at all times. If they fail in this regard, they can be subject to liability for any injury their dogs cause.

Dog Bite Statistics

  • One out of five dog bite accidents investigated by Seattle Animal Control involve pit bulls, despite the fact that only one out of 20 dogs in the United States are pit bulls.
  • Dog bite liability claims cost homeowner insurers over $686 million in 2017. This was a large increase from the cost of $412 million in 2009.
  • Nearly 4.7 million people are victims of dog bites each year.
  • Fifty percent of dog bite fatalities are children under the age of 10. These incidents can range from minor dog bite injuries to serious maulings.
  • In 2012, there were approximately 38 fatalities as a result of dog bites in the U.S.
  • In the United States, approximately 100 children are victims of dog bites per day. Approximately 92 of said children require medical attention as a result of the dog attack.
  • One third of homeowner liability policies’ injury claims are connected to dog attacks.
  • Strange dogs, i.e. dogs the victim doesn’t know, account for 10 to 20 percent of all dog bites that are reported in the U.S.
  • Dog bites surpass playground accidents as the second leading cause of childhood injury, according to the American Medical Association.
  • In the U.S., pit bulls make up only a tiny percent of the dog population (approximately 1 to 3 percent), but are responsible for more than 50 percent of serious dog attacks.
  • Rottweilers and pit bulls are the breeds most involved in fatal dog bite attacks.
  • German Shepherds and Chow Chows are the most common breeds of purebred dogs involved in biting incidents.
  • According to the CDC, chained dogs are 2.8 times more likely to bite than a non-chained dog.
  • Non-spayed or neutered dogs are three times more likely to bite than ones who are fixed.
  • Male dogs between the ages of 1-5 years are more likely to bite than any female dog.

Do You Need a Dog Bite Accident Attorney?

You don’t have to face the big insurance companies on your own. If you were bitten by a dog, our Bremerton dog bite accident attorney can help. We have a solid reputation for representing accident victims, including victims of dog bite attacks and maulings, and we’re ready to go to bat for you in negotiating or litigating your case. Give us a call to schedule your no-cost case review today.

Click To Call