Dog Bite

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Arizona Dog Bite Lawyer: Holding Owners Accountable for Your Injuries

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.

Practice Areas

Let's Connect

715 Monroe Ave Buckeye, AZ 85326

(602) 654-0202

21300 North John Wayne Parkway Suite 109-B Maricopa, AZ 85139

(520) 217-8821

mycase@azlawnow.com

What to Do Immediately After a Dog Bite

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.