Dog Bite

We all know that a dog is a man’s best friend. However, dogs can sometimes lash out and attack either friends or strangers when they feel threatened, irritated, or unwell. Dog bites can cause very serious and sometimes even fatal wounds, not to mention the emotional trauma that can come from such an attack.

If a dog bites you or one of your family members in Arizona, the law is on your side. You can hold the dog’s owner responsible for its actions. Van Norman Law is an experienced personal injury lawyer serving the entire state of Arizona. We will make sure the dog’s owner is held fully accountable and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

What Should I Do If I’ve Been Bitten By a Dog?

If a dog bites you in Scottsdale, you should:

• Immediately wash the wound with an antiseptic, such as soap, and water.
• Call your doctor or go to the emergency room of the nearest hospital. Even if the dog bite is minor, you still need to worry about rabies, tetanus, and any other diseases a dog may have in its saliva.
• Take photos of the dog bite.
• Connect with any potential witnesses of the incident.
• Report the incident to your local animal control agency or police department.
• If possible, collect the dog owner’s contact information, the dog’s medical history, and their veterinarian’s contact information.
• Contact a dog bite attorney in Scottsdale to go over your case.

Arizona Dog Bite Laws

The state of Arizona has strict laws regarding dog bites. The Arizona dog bite laws feature strict liability, which means that even if the dog had no prior history of biting or attacking, the owner is still fully responsible for the attack.

Under ARS 11-1025, dog owners are liable for any damage caused by their dog biting another person in a public place. They are also responsible if the bitten person was on private property with permission.

Under ARS 11-1020, dog owners are also accountable for their dog’s actions if the dog bites someone while “at large.” If a dog escapes their leash or a fenced backyard and is running loose, if it bites someone, the owner is responsible.

Suffering from a dog bite in Scottsdale entitles you to certain compensation from the dog’s owner, including:

• Past and future medical care related to the dog bite
• Any property damages from the attack
• Any income lost due to the injury
• Legal fees
• Compensation for emotional, physical, and mental distress

Contact the Scottsdale Dog Bite Lawyers at Van Norman Law

Although Arizona dog bite laws hold dog owners completely responsible for their dog’s actions, there will still be a fight in court before you get the reparations you deserve. For that reason, you need an expert personal injury lawyer on your side to ensure that you receive the utmost compensation for your injuries. Call the offices of Van Norman Law today so we can start fighting for you.