Dog Bite Lawyer in Phoenix, AZ

Dog ownership laws in Arizona

Arizona state law dictates that animal owners are strictly liable for any harm their pets inflict on others. This means dog owners are responsible for all bites and attacks their dogs commit, even if they have not been personally negligent or are not aware that a dog is dangerous. However, these rules do not always apply — for example, if the dog was intentionally provoked, teased, tormented or abused, or if the victim was bitten or attacked while trespassing or committing a crime. Experienced Phoenix, AZ dog bites lawyers such as David R. Farney can provide skilled legal guidance when you’ve been bitten or attacked by an unprovoked dog and seek compensation. Furthermore, we are extremely sensitive to the issues you may face as a dog bite victim — such as physical disability, impairment, scarring and effects of emotional trauma.

After you’ve been attacked

If you are attacked or bitten by a dog, it is important to collect its owner’s contact information, especially if you do not know each other. You should immediately seek medical attention — an untreated dog bite could become infected or lead to blood loss and unnecessary pain. Make sure to maintain records of any treatment you are prescribed, including stitches, immunizations and courses of antibiotics. It is essential to meet with dog bites attorneys in Phoenix, AZ if your injury is at all substantial.

It is also important to file a timely online (or phone) report with the county animal control division in order to verify rabies information as well as advise the county in case of future attacks. In Maricopa County, the report can be filed at: https://www.maricopa.gov/Pets/onlinerpting.aspx

What can I recover?

As a victim of a dog bite, you can seek compensation for any physical, financial, emotional or other losses or damages you suffer. Of course, the amount you receive depends largely on the severity and cost of your injury, but you may be entitled to compensation for the following:

• Medical bills from treatment for the injury
• Temporary or permanent disability benefits
• Cosmetic procedures to treat scarring
• Psychological services
• Lost wages due to missed work time
• Pain
• Mental suffering/PTSD
• Scarring
• Loss of future earning potential
• Loss of quality of life
• Clothing or property damage

Homeowners and renters insurance policies typically cover pet owners whose dogs attack. As one of the top dog bites law firms in Phoenix, AZ, David R. Farney, PLC is fully prepared to assist you with filing the claim and dealing with the insurance company as you seek compensation.