Arizona Dog Bite Attorneys

Injuries Caused by Serious Dog Bites

Dog bites can cause a wide variety of injuries, some of which can be severe and life-threatening. These injuries can range from physical injuries such as lacerations and broken bones to infections and psychological trauma. In some cases, the injuries may require extensive medical care and long-term rehabilitation.

Some examples of injuries that can result from a dog bite include:

• Lacerations and puncture wounds
• Broken bones
• Nerve damage
• Infections such as rabies and tetanus
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Dog bite victims can suffer from psychological trauma that can leave long-lasting mental injuries. It is common for survivors to develop a fear of dogs or experience anxiety and depression. These mental health issues may require ongoing therapy or medication to manage. If left untreated, they can severely impact a victim's quality of life, affecting their ability to work, socialize, and even perform daily activities.

What to Do After a Dog Attack

If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog, it is crucial to take the appropriate steps to help protect your legal rights.

Essential steps to take after a dog bite or dog attack include:

1. Seek medical attention immediately: If the injuries are severe, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room at once. Even if the injuries seem minor, it is important to get checked by a medical professional to avoid potential infections, so an urgent care visit should be arranged within the next few hours.
2. Identify the dog and its owner: If possible, obtain the name and contact information of the dog owner. You may also want to get the name and contact information of any witnesses to the incident.
3. Report the dog bite: Contact your local animal control authority or law enforcement agency to report the incident. They will investigate the incident and can gather evidence for your case.
4. Document the injuries: Take photos of the injuries and keep a record of all medical treatment received following the attack.
5. Consult with an experienced dog bite attorney: An experienced Arizona dog bite attorney can help you seek compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Dog bite cases can be complicated, and it is essential to have a lawyer on your side to protect your legal rights and help you demand the compensation you deserve.

Arizona Strict Liability for Dog Bite Cases

In Arizona, strict liability applies to dog bite cases, meaning that regardless of the owner's negligence or knowledge of a dog's viciousness, the owner is still responsible for any injuries caused by their dog. This rule applies when a dog bite occurs either in a public place or when the victim is lawfully on private property. The strict liability rule is often seen as the opposite of the “one-bite” rule, which can excuse liability for some damages if the dog has never shown aggression before.

However, in a dog bite case, the injured person must not have provoked or harmed the dog intentionally or been trespassing on private property. If such circumstances did exist, then liability for their losses could be reduced or complicated.

If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Arizona, do not hesitate to contact us for a free consultation.