(480) 418-9738Leading Dog Bite Attorneys in Scottsdale, Arizona
At Swenson & Shelley, our Scottsdale personal injury lawyers know that dog bites typically shock both victim’s and pets’ owners, making the aftermath complex and confusing for both parties.
While the owner is almost always apologetic, it doesn’t change the fact that the person who was bitten must seek medical care immediately, which is often more extensive than a visit to the emergency room. According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, 34,151 emergency department visits and 2,358 inpatient hospitalizations were recorded over five years for dog-bite-related injuries.
The most striking finding was that inpatient hospitalizations (requiring at least one overnight stay) have increased by 139% in Arizona over the same period. The reality is, according to the Insurance Information Institute, the average cost per dog bite claim was $58,545 nationwide last year.
Our Maricopa County dog bite injury attorney knows this substantial amount of money requires pursuing the dog owner’s insurance coverage—no matter who the owner is, including everyone from strangers and neighbors to friends and family members—for our clients’ damages, so they are not left paying these extraordinary expenses out of pocket.
Contact our Scottsdale dog bite attorneys today to learn more about your legal rights and options.
When the Worst Has Happened, We Fight for What’s Best for You.
What is the Dog Bite Law in Arizona?
Arizona’s dog bite law is stringent and governed by Arizona Revised Statutes § 11-1025.
The critical points of the statutes include:
- Strict Liability: Arizona follows a strict liability rule for dog bites. This means the dog owner is liable for any injuries their dog causes by biting, regardless of the dog’s previous behavior or the owner’s knowledge of any potential danger. The victim does not need to prove that the owner was negligent or that the dog had a history of aggression.
- Public and Private Property: The law applies if the bite occurs in a public place or while the victim is lawfully on private property. This includes the dog owner’s property, as long as the victim is there legally—including as a guest, postal worker, or utility worker.
- Statute of Limitations: Under the strict liability statute, victims must file a lawsuit one year from the bite date. If they want to pursue a claim based on negligence, they have two years to file.
Dog owners have limited defenses. One defense is a provocation; if the owner can prove that the victim provoked the dog, they may not be held liable. Trespassing is another defense; the owner might not be liable if the victim was unlawfully on private property.
Overall, Arizona’s dog bite law is designed to protect victims by holding dog owners accountable for their pets’ actions. Therefore, owners must exercise caution and proper control over their dogs at all times. Arizona also has leash laws and other regulations that may impose further responsibilities on dog owners to prevent bites and other injuries.
If a dog in Arizona has bitten you or someone you love, contact our dedicated personal injury attorneys in Scottsdale for help pursuing the owner’s insurance coverage for your complete financial recovery needs.
What are the Most Common Ways Dog Bites Occur in Scottsdale, Arizona?
Many people are unaware of the circumstances that can trigger a dog to bite, such as fear, pain, or territorial instincts. As a result, the occurrence of a dog bite can be surprising and unsettling, challenging the generally accepted notion of dogs as harmless friends.
Arizona dog bites can occur in various everyday scenarios involving neighbors, friends, family, and strangers.
They include:
- Neighbors: Dog bites often happen when a neighbor’s dog escapes its yard or is inadequately restrained. Friendly interactions, such as petting or playing, can sometimes turn aggressive if the dog feels threatened or startled. Additionally, territorial behavior can lead to bites when neighbors enter or approach the dog’s perceived territory.
- Friends: Bites involving friends usually occur during social gatherings or visits where the dog is unaccustomed to the presence of different people. A dog might react defensively to unfamiliar scents, sudden movements, or loud noises. Even a friendly dog’s excitement or anxiety in social settings can inadvertently lead to aggressive behavior.
- Family: Dog bites can happen during routine interactions within families. Children are particularly at risk as they may unknowingly provoke the dog by pulling its tail or ears or engaging in rough play. Stressful situations, like feeding times or when the dog is in pain, can also trigger bites, even from well-known family pets.
- Complete Strangers: Strangers risk dog bites when approaching a dog without the owner’s permission, attempting to pet or interact with the dog, or encroaching on the dog’s personal space. Stray dogs or those without proper training may view strangers as threats, leading to defensive biting.
Every circumstance is unique and requires customized legal solutions to pursue actual results. That is what our Scottsdale dog bite attorneys provide, starting with a free consultation.
Our dedicated team of personal injury attorneys in Scottsdale takes the pressure off our clients from their first call to our office. Our compassionate lawyers and support staff do more than hear the details of your case during our free consultations. We listen to how your personal injury incident has impacted your daily activities and overall quality of life.
Our Scottsdale Personal Injury Attorneys Also Focus on the Following Areas:
Contact Our Experienced Dog Bite Attorneys in Scottsdale, Arizona
Call us today at (480) 418-9738 or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. During this consultation, you can learn immediately whether your claim is eligible for legal action.
We do not charge any fees upfront for our services. Instead, you pay us only if we secure payment for you. That makes getting legal help accessible and allows you to focus on your recovery. Contact us now to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions for Our Dog Bite Attorney in Scottsdale, Arizona
Do I need a personal injury attorney if I am injured by a dog?
While it’s not always necessary to have a lawyer, consulting with a dog bite attorney can be beneficial. They can help you determine the best course of action, assess your potential compensation, and negotiate with the insurance company.
What if the dog was on private property when it bit me?
The laws governing dog bites on private property can vary by state. In Arizona, property owners generally must exercise reasonable care to prevent their dogs from biting people. However, the specific circumstances of the incident will determine liability.
What if the dog was on public property when it attacked me?
If a dog bites someone on public property, the dog owner is generally liable for the injuries. However, there may be exceptions, such as if the victim was trespassing or provoking the dog.
How can a dog bite attorney assist me in Scottsdale?
A dog bite attorney can help by investigating the incident, gathering evidence, and negotiating with insurance companies. They can also guide you through the legal process, and ensure you receive fair compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.
What types of damages can I recover from a dog bite case?
You may be able to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and any future medical costs related to the injury. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded if the dog’s behavior is particularly egregious.
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Scottsdale?
In Arizona, you typically have two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury claim. It’s important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure all deadlines are met and evidence is preserved.
What if the dog owner does not have insurance?
Even if the dog owner does not have insurance, you may still have options for recovering damages. An attorney can help explore alternative avenues for compensation, such as pursuing a claim against the dog owner’s assets or seeking coverage through your insurance policy if applicable.
Will I have to go to court for my dog bite case?
Not necessarily. Many dog bite cases are resolved through settlements or negotiations outside of court. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney may recommend proceeding to court to seek the compensation you deserve.
