Scottsdale Dog Bite Lawyer
Dogs are loyal companions and a cherished part of many families. But even the most affectionate dog can turn aggressive without warning, sometimes causing serious harm. Dog bite injuries can include puncture wounds, nerve damage, scarring, infection, disfigurement, and other complications. Victims may also suffer catastrophic injuries and PTSD. If you or a loved one were bitten due to another person’s negligence, an experienced Scottsdale dog bite lawyer can help you pursue compensation.
Call our Scottsdale personal injury attorneys to schedule a free consultation today at (602) 977-1900. During your free case review, an attorney will review your case and determine if you are eligible for compensation.
Maricopa County Dog Bite Laws
Arizona law imposes strict liability on dog owners. This means the owner is legally responsible for a dog bite, regardless of whether the dog has bitten anyone before. After suffering from a dog bite in Scottsdale, you must report the bite to Maricopa County Animal Care and Control (MCACC). Along with reporting the bite, the following steps will typically take place:
- 10-day quarantine: After a bite, the dog must be quarantined for 10 days, usually at the owner’s home, if the dog’s rabies vaccination is current.
- Unvaccinated dogs or dogs at large: If the dog wasn’t vaccinated or was roaming freely, it must be quarantined at a veterinary clinic or shelter at the owner’s expense.
- Leash laws: Dogs must be leashed in public unless in a designated off-leash area.
- Dangerous dog classification: If a dog has a history of aggression or multiple bites, it may be labeled “dangerous,” requiring the owner to follow specific safety and containment measures.
By reporting the bite, you create a legal record of the incident that your Scottsdale dog bite lawyer to use as evidence in your claim. Reporting the incident also plays a vital role in protecting public health and safety by allowing for proper monitoring and quarantine.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Scottsdale
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Scottsdale, it is important to follow these steps for both your own health and the validity of your injury claim:
- Document the scene: Take clear photos of your injuries, the dog, and the location where the bite occurred. Collect the dog owner’s name, contact information, and any witness details.
- Report the bite: Notify MCACC as soon as possible.
- Seek medical attention: Even minor bites can lead to serious infections. A doctor may recommend antibiotics, a tetanus booster, or a rabies shot. Keep all medical records, bills, and prescriptions as documentation.
- Contact a Scottsdale dog bite lawyer: An experienced attorney can evaluate your case and explain your legal options.
Types of Compensation a Scottsdale Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help You Recover
Dog bites can have lasting physical, emotional, and financial consequences. Scottsdale dog bite victims can secure fair compensation for their injuries with the help of a skilled attorney who will hold negligent dog owners accountable. Depending on your individual circumstances, you may be able to receive the following types of compensation:
- Medical expenses, including hospital stays, surgeries, prescription medication, etc.
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering for emotional distress, trauma, and a diminished quality of life associated with the injury
- Punitive damages if the dog owner acted with extreme negligence or recklessness
- Costs to replace personal property damaged during the accident
- Loss of consortium for the loss of companionship or support resulting from the injury
- In severe cases, wrongful death benefits
A Scottsdale dog bite lawyer will evaluate every aspect of your case to ensure you pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.
Contact a Scottsdale Dog Bite Lawyer Near Me
Dog bite injuries can greatly disrupt every part of your life. A Scottsdale dog bite lawyer at Lerner and Rowe is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve to move forward. We’ll handle the legal process, build a strong case, and deal directly with insurance companies that may try to downplay your injuries or reduce your compensation. An experienced lawyer will protect your rights and ensure you don’t settle for less than your injuries deserve.
We’re available 24/7 and work on a “No Win, No Fee” basis, so you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Call us today at (602) 977-1900, start a LiveChat on our website, or fill out our online case review form to get started on your personal injury claim.