Bad Faith Insurance

Bad Faith Insurance Practices in Arizona: Holding Insurers Accountable

You pay your insurance premiums faithfully, expecting your insurer to uphold their end of the bargain when you need to file a claim. Unfortunately, some insurance companies prioritize their profits over their policyholders’ legitimate needs, engaging in “bad faith” practices. If you believe your Arizona insurer is not handling your claim honestly and fairly, https://www.google.com/search?q=AZLawnNow.com can help you understand your rights and explore your legal options.

What is Insurance Bad Faith in Arizona?

Insurance companies in Arizona have a legal duty to act in good faith and deal fairly with their policyholders. This means they must:

Investigate claims thoroughly and promptly.
Objectively evaluate a claim.
Pay legitimate claims in a timely manner.
Provide a reasonable explanation for any claim denial or offer of a reduced settlement.

Bad faith occurs when an insurer unreasonably and without proper cause denies, delays, or underpays a claim, or otherwise fails to fulfill its obligations under the insurance policy and Arizona law.

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Why Choose Azlawnow for Your Dog Bite Claim?

We understand the trauma and financial strain that a dog bite can cause. Our legal team is well-versed in Arizona’s strict liability dog bite laws and has a proven track record of helping victims secure the compensation they deserve. We are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation.

A Bite Occurred

The injury must have been caused by a dog bite.

Defendant is the Owner

The person you are filing the claim against must be the legal owner of the dog.

Lawful Presence

You were in a public place or lawfully on private property when the bite occurred. This includes being an invited guest, a mail carrier, or anyone on the property for a legal purpose.

No Provocation (Generally)

While strict liability applies, provocation can be a defense for the dog owner.

What to Do Immediately After a Dog Bite in Arizona

Prioritize Safety

Get to a safe location away from the dog.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Dog bites can cause serious infections, nerve damage, and scarring. Prompt medical care is essential for your health and to document your injuries.

Identify the Dog and Owner

If possible and safe to do so, get the owner’s name, address, and phone number. Note the dog’s breed and appearance.

Report the Bite

1) Contact your local animal control agency. For example, in Maricopa County, you would report the bite to Maricopa County Animal Care and Control (MCACC).

2) Reporting creates an official record and can help prevent future incidents. MCACC will typically investigate and ensure the dog is quarantined (usually for 10 days) to check for rabies.

Gather Witness Information

If anyone saw the attack, get their names and contact details.

Document Everything

1) Take clear photos of your injuries as soon as possible and throughout the healing process.

2) Take photos of the location where the bite occurred.

3) Keep all medical records, bills, and receipts for any expenses related to the bite.

4) Write down everything you remember about the incident while it’s fresh in your mind.

Compensation You May Be Entitled To

Victims of dog bites in Arizona can seek compensation for various damages, including:

Medical Expenses: Emergency room visits, hospital stays, doctor’s appointments, surgery (including plastic surgery for scarring), medication, and physical therapy.
Lost Wages: Time missed from work due to your injuries and recovery.
Future Medical Costs: If your injuries require ongoing treatment.
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain, discomfort, and emotional trauma caused by the attack.
Emotional Distress: Including anxiety, fear, PTSD, and nightmares resulting from the incident.
Scarring and Disfigurement: Compensation for permanent physical changes.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If the injuries prevent you from participating in activities you once enjoyed.

Homeowner's or Renter's Insurance

Often, a dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance or renter’s insurance policy will cover dog bite claims. Our attorneys can help you identify the responsible party and their insurance coverage.

Common Defenses in Arizona Dog Bite Cases:

While Arizona has a strict liability statute, dog owners may try to assert certain defenses, such as:

Provocation: If the victim was teasing, tormenting, or abusing the dog, this could be a defense.
Trespassing: If the victim was unlawfully on private property where the bite occurred.
Assumption of Risk: In limited situations, if the victim knowingly and voluntarily exposed themselves to a clear risk of being bitten (e.g., a veterinarian treating an aggressive dog).
Comparative Negligence: If the victim’s own negligence contributed to the incident, their compensation might be reduced.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists

If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite in Arizona, don’t bear the burden alone. Contact today for a free, confidential consultation. We will explain your rights and how we can help you move forward. Call us at [Phone Number] or fill out our online contact form.

Bad Faith Insurance