Generally speaking, Americans love their dogs and consider them to be a part of the family unit.

Unfortunately, there are approximately 4.5 million dog bite victims every year in the United States. Almost 50% of all victims are children under the age of 12.

Many dog bite victims suffer permanent scarring and consult with plastic surgeons. While scarring can be minimized by plastic surgery, most victims are still left with permanent residual scarring. In addition to physical injuries, many dog bite victims experience emotional trauma, lower self-esteem from visible scarring and a lifetime fear of dogs.

If a Dog Bites the Owner is Responsible

In Arizona, most dog bite attacks are strict liability cases. In other types of injury cases, the victim has to prove negligence in order to receive compensation.

Pursuant to Arizona law, if a dog bites, the owner is responsible regardless of proving negligence. Specifically, Arizona Revised Statute 11-1025.A states the following:

“The owner of a dog which bites a person when the person is in or on a public place or lawfully in or on a private place, including the property of the owner of the dog, is liable for damages suffered by the person bitten, regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owner’s knowledge of its viciousness.”

File Your Dog Bite Claim Right Away

The only defense to imposing strict liability is if the dog bite victim provoked the dog into biting.

Also, claims brought under Arizona Revised Statute 11-1020 and 11-1025 have a 1 year statute of limitations. Subject to several exceptions, a dog bite victim must file a lawsuit within 1 year from the date of loss or his/her strict liability claim may be barred forever. Claims based on a dog owner’s negligence have a 2 year statue of limitations.

Don’t Sign Away Your Legal Rights

Dog bite victims are typically compensated for their injuries by the dog owner’s homeowners insurance policy. If the victim or the parents of the victim are contacted by an insurance company, please do not sign any documents. You may be jeopardizing your health and signing away your legal rights.

Petersen Johnson has successfully handled numerous cases involving dog bite attacks. Please contact us immediately so we can compile evidence and maximize your damage recovery.

Our attorneys are available 24/7 to answer your questions at 877-96-LEGAL.