Common Causes of Dog Bites in Phoenix

The moments after a dog attack are often confusing, and you may be unsure of your rights or what to do next. It is important to know that you are not alone in this situation, and legal support is available to guide you through a personal injury claim. Our team is here to help you understand the common causes of dog bites in Phoenix and navigate the legal process.

An experienced dog bite attorney could investigate the circumstances of your attack, gather critical evidence, and determine the owner’s responsibility. At Elmm Law Group, we provide the compassionate and skilled representation you need to hold negligent parties accountable.

Territorial Aggression and Lack of Socialization

One of the most common reasons for dog bites in Phoenix is a dog’s instinct to protect its territory. Dogs may perceive a person, even a child, as a threat to their home, yard, or even their owner. This protective instinct can lead to aggressive behavior, such as barking, growling, or biting. An owner who fails to properly secure a territorial dog on their property may be considered negligent if an attack occurs.

Proper socialization is also key to preventing aggressive behavior. A dog that is not regularly and safely exposed to different people, environments, and other animals from a young age may develop fear-based aggression.

When an owner neglects to socialize their pet, the dog may react unpredictably and aggressively toward strangers or in unfamiliar situations. An attorney could investigate whether a lack of socialization contributed to your injury when building your case.

How Can Fear, Pain, or Sickness Lead to Dog Attacks?

Not all dog bites stem from inherent aggression. Another common cause of dog attacks in Phoenix is related to fear or pain. A dog might bite if it is startled by a sudden movement, approached while it is sleeping or eating, or feels threatened by a person’s body language. Even a normally gentle dog may lash out if it is in pain from an undiagnosed injury or illness.

A sick or injured animal is more likely to be irritable and defensive, reacting with a bite as a way to protect itself. Identifying whether pain or fear was the trigger is essential. While it may seem like an accident, the owner still has a responsibility to manage their pet, especially if they know the dog is ill, injured, or easily frightened.

An owner who allows a known-to-be-fearful or sick dog to interact with the public without proper precautions, such as a leash or muzzle, could be held liable for any resulting injuries. Our legal team could help determine if the owner was aware of the dog’s condition and failed to take reasonable steps to prevent harm.

Negligent Owners and Failure To Leash

In many public spaces across Maricopa County, dogs are required to be on a leash and under the direct control of their owner. When an owner lets their dog roam free in an undesignated area, they create a dangerous situation for everyone. Often, dog bite incidents in Phoenix occur simply because an unrestrained dog approached and attacked someone without provocation.

Beyond leash laws, general negligence can also be a factor. This can include:

• Failing to repair a broken fence or gate, allowing a dog to escape
• Leaving a dog with a known history of aggression unsupervised around visitors
• Not warning others about a dog’s aggressive tendencies

Demonstrating that an owner’s carelessness directly led to your injuries is the foundation of a successful personal injury claim. We specialize in investigating these cases to uncover evidence of negligence and build a strong argument for your compensation.

Contact a Phoenix Attorney About Common Causes of Dog Bites

At Elmm Law Group, we are knowledgeable about the common causes of dog bites in Phoenix. An attorney from our firm could investigate your case to establish liability and pursue the full compensation you are entitled to for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We handle all communications with insurance companies and opposing parties, allowing you to heal without added stress.

Contact Elmm Law Group today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case. A dedicated attorney from our firm is available to listen to your story, explain your legal options, and provide the advocacy you need to move forward.