A dog attack or bite can cause serious damage. Damages include recoveries for both physical and emotional injuries. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and any other out-of-pocket expenses.
Below are some commonly Issues regarding dog bite cases in Arizona.
Is an Owner in Arizona Liable for a dog bite?
Yes. Arizona provides for strict liability for damages caused by a dog bite. A.R.S. §11-1025. This means that so long as the victim was lawfully on the property where the victim was bit, it does not matter if the owner knew of the attack, the owner acted negligently or if the dog has previously bit someone or not. The victim need only show that the injury was caused by the dog bite. Arizona law also provides for liability under traditional negligence theories.
Does the Owner of the dog have any defenses?
The owner must show that the victim’s actions provoked the dog attack. A.R.S. §11-1027.
Can someone other than the dog owner be liable?
Yes. If the dog was under the care and control of someone other than the owner at the time of the incident, both the owner and the caretaker are liable.
What is the time limit to file a dog bite claim?
One year. Arizona law imposes a one-year statute of limitation from the date the dog bite occurred for the strict liability action. Arizona provides a two year statute of limitation for the negligence action.
Is a dog bite claim covered by insurance?
A dog bite claim may be covered by either Homeowner’s, Renter’s or Commercial insurance.
If you have been bitten by a dog, the personal injury lawyers at Mesch Clark Rothschild are available to assist and get you appropriate compensation quickly.
