Tempe Dog Bite Lawyer
Dog bites are more common than many people realize in Tempe. Whether you’re walking through Tempe Beach Park, enjoying the restaurants along Mill Avenue, or visiting a neighbor, an unexpected attack can leave lasting injuries. Even well-trained pets sometimes bite without warning. Victims may suffer puncture wounds, infections, nerve damage, facial scarring, or emotional trauma such as PTSD. If you or a loved one has been bitten because of another person’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. A Tempe dog bite lawyer at Lerner and Rowe can explain your rights, deal with insurance companies, and pursue damages on your behalf.
Call our Tempe personal injury lawyers at (602) 977-1900 for a free consultation. We’re available day and night.
Arizona Dog Bite Laws
Arizona has some of the strongest dog bite laws in the country. Under strict liability, owners are responsible for injuries caused by their dogs—even if the animal never bit anyone before. Victims do not need to prove the dog was dangerous.
After a dog bite in Tempe, you must report the incident to Maricopa County Animal Care and Control (MCACC). Once a report is made, a few things usually follow:
- 10-day quarantine: Vaccinated dogs may remain at home under monitoring.
- Unvaccinated or stray dogs: Quarantine often takes place at a shelter or veterinary facility, with costs charged to the owner.
- Leash laws: Tempe requires dogs to be leashed in public spaces unless they are in designated off-leash areas like Tempe Sports Complex Dog Park.
- Dangerous dog designation: Dogs with repeated bite incidents may be labeled “dangerous,” which triggers stricter rules.
Reporting helps protect the community and creates an official record your Tempe dog bite lawyer can use to strengthen your eventual case.
What to Do After a Dog Bite in Tempe
The steps you take right after a bite can make a big difference. Protect yourself by following these guidelines:
- Document the incident: Take photos of your injuries, the dog, and the location. Get the owner’s contact information and any witness statements.
- Report the bite: Contact MCACC immediately.
- Seek medical treatment: Even a small puncture wound can become infected. Doctors may recommend antibiotics, a tetanus shot, or rabies treatment. Save all medical records and bills.
- Call an attorney: A Tempe dog bite lawyer can evaluate your case, explain your options, and guide you through the legal process.
A Tempe Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help You With Compensation
Dog bites often bring physical, financial, and emotional costs. Depending on the details of your case, you may be able to recover compensation for:
- Medical bills, including reconstructive or cosmetic surgery
- Lost wages and reduced earning potential
- Pain and suffering for physical and emotional distress
- Punitive damages
- Damaged personal property
- Loss of consortium for harm to family relationships
- Wrongful death damages in fatal cases
A skilled Tempe dog bite lawyer will carefully review your situation and fight to maximize your recovery.
Dog Bite Personal Injury Claim FAQs
You have two years from the date of the bite. Filing sooner helps preserve evidence and strengthens your case.
No, Arizona’s strict liability law holds owners responsible regardless of the dog’s past behavior.
You may still be able to file a claim. Most cases are covered by the dog owner’s homeowners or renter’s insurance.
Yes. Many dog bite victims experience anxiety, nightmares, or PTSD, and these losses may be part of your claim.
Contact a Tempe Dog Bite Lawyer Near Me
Dog bite injuries can turn life upside down. The legal team at Lerner and Rowe can step in to handle the paperwork, negotiate with insurance companies, and build a strong claim for you.
We work on a “No Win, No Fee” basis, so you don’t pay anything unless we win your case.
To get started, call (602) 977-1900, use LiveChat on our website, or complete our secure case review form.