Dog Bite Lawyer in Portland, Oregon
Dog bites are more serious than people assume. They can cause deep puncture wounds, nerve damage, infection, permanent scarring, and lasting fear. Children are bitten most often and suffer the most. I help victims and their families hold owners accountable and recover the cost of treatment, scarring, and the trauma of the attack.
When an owner may be liable
- Failure to leash or restrain a dog
- Ignoring a dog’s known aggressive history
- Violating local leash and animal-control laws
- Letting a dog roam or escape an unsecured yard
- Failing to warn visitors of a dangerous dog
- Negligent handling in public spaces
Oregon’s dog bite law
Oregon law lets dog bite victims recover economic damages — like medical bills — without proving the owner knew the dog was dangerous (ORS 31.360). Non-economic damages such as pain and suffering generally require showing the owner knew or should have known of the dog’s dangerous tendencies, or was otherwise negligent (ORS 609.140). Homeowner’s or renter’s insurance often covers these claims, and the general two-year injury deadline applies (ORS 12.110).
What a dog bite claim can recover
- Emergency and reconstructive medical care
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Lost wages during recovery
- Pain, suffering, and emotional trauma
- Counseling for fear and PTSD, especially in children
Treating a “minor” bite seriously
Insurers like to downplay dog bites, especially the emotional toll. I document the full injury — medical, cosmetic, and psychological — and pursue every source of coverage so the recovery reflects what really happened.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to prove the dog bit someone before?
Not for economic damages like medical bills. For pain-and-suffering damages, Oregon generally requires showing the owner knew or should have known the dog was dangerous, or was negligent.
Who pays for a dog bite claim?
Often the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. I identify and pursue the available coverage so you’re not stuck with the bills.
My child was bitten — what should we do?
Get medical care, photograph the injuries, report the bite, and document everything. Then call me; children’s cases require special care and often include counseling costs.
What if the bite left a permanent scar?
Scarring and disfigurement are compensable, including future reconstructive care. I make sure those long-term harms are valued, not overlooked.
There is no cost to find out where you stand. Find out what your case is worth or call (503) 379-9933.
What you can expect at my personal injury law firm
Personalized one-on-one Attention
Commitment to maximizing a claim
Proven trial advocacy & Results
Careful case preparation
Consistent updates on case progress
My goal is to maximize your compensation. This can include expenses for medical treatment, rehabilitation, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more. No matter how complex your injuries and claim, I am prepared to fight for you.
