Phoenix Dog Bite Lawyer

Few pets can bring the kind of loyalty and companionship that a dog provides. When they are treated right, dogs can truly be man’s best friend. Unfortunately, sometimes a dog’s animal instincts take over, and they end up attacking someone, which could result in severe injuries.

If a dog attacked you, you may be entitled to recover financial compensation for your injuries. You may feel uneasy or confused about how a dog is responsible, which is understandable. In these cases, the dog’s owner could be responsible for footing the bill, and a Phoenix dog bite lawyer could help you pursue a claim for comprehensive compensation. The experienced personal injury attorneys at Elmm Law Group could help you understand your options and provide dedicated representation throughout the entire legal process.

Common Injuries and Available Compensation After a Dog Attack

Dogs and puppies can be playful and happy with people, but deep down, they are still animals with sharp teeth and strong jaws that have the potential to cause significant damage when they bite down. The best-case scenario is cuts or punctures that need stitches and some time to heal. However, the teeth could strike at just the right point, where they cause nerve damage and a permanent loss of feeling. Some dogs could instinctually attack the face and throat area, potentially causing blindness or death.

A canine’s sharp teeth penetrate the skin during an attack, opening up a path for bacteria or parasites to enter the victim’s body. Physical wounds can heal, but the illness from an infection could be worse than any bite mark. Though it is extremely rare in dogs, rabies is usually transferred to humans through a bite from an infected animal and is almost always fatal.

Injuries from an attack go beyond physical wounds and illnesses. Being bitten by a dog is a terrifying experience, and victims could develop a fear of all dogs, along with other emotional trauma following an attack.

If you have been bitten by someone’s pet dog, you may be entitled to recover damages from the owner. This includes monetary compensation for your hospital bills, medical treatment, and lost wages. You might also be able to recover non-monetary compensation for emotional distress and pain and suffering.

The types and amount of compensation you may recover depends on the extent of your injuries. A qualified animal attack attorney in Phoenix could help you pursue the maximum amount that you are eligible to receive.

The Dog Owner’s Responsibility and Exceptions

Arizona is a unique state when it comes to the owner’s liability for a bite from their pets. Some states allow for a single bite, sometimes referred to as the “one bite rule.” After this, the owner should be aware that their pet tends to attack others and take precautions to prevent a second bite.

Arizona, in contrast, follows “strict liability,” meaning there is no allowance for a single bite. Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 11-1025, owners are liable for damages that result from their dog’s bites regardless of the:

• Animal’s history
• Breed
• Owner’s prior knowledge of its tendencies

However, it is important to know that there are some exceptions where the owner may not be held liable if their dog bites someone. These include situations where the victim was provoking or harassing the dog, and the attack was in response to this provocation.

It is also crucial to be aware of the legal time limit for bringing dog bite claims. In Arizona, the statute of limitations for filing a dog bite lawsuit is just one year from the date of the attack. This means that if you have been attacked by a dog in Phoenix, it is imperative to contact a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you do not miss the deadline to recover compensation for your injuries.

Talk to a Seasoned Dog Bite Attorney in Phoenix Today

A dog is not responsible for its behavior; that burden falls on its owner. If you have been attacked by another person’s dog, a Phoenix dog bite lawyer could help you pursue a claim against the owner for your injuries.

The diligent attorneys at Elmm Law Group could explain your legal options and help you demand the fair compensation you need and deserve. Call today to schedule a free consultation and discuss the details of your case with a member of our legal team.