Who is Liable for a Dog Bite Injury in Scottsdale?

Despite their general friendly nature, dogs can attack people, especially strangers. Unfortunately, dog bites can cause serious physical and emotional harm, leaving victims with costly medical bills, lost income, and traumatized. In Scottsdale, Arizona, dog bite cases are more common than most people realize. While Arizona law entitles victims to compensation, they often ask the same critical question: “Who is liable for my dog bite injury?

In Arizona, specific laws protect victims of dog bites, and who is liable for a dog bite injury is often straightforward under Arizona’s strict liability statute. Let’s explore how liability works in Scottsdale dog bite cases, the exceptions to the rule, and the steps victims should take to protect their rights.

Arizona Dog Bite Laws

While some states follow the “one-bite rule” (where an owner is only liable if the dog previously showed aggression), Arizona enforces a strict liability standard under A.R.S. 11-1025. This means that a dog owner is responsible for injuries caused by their dog even if the dog has never bitten or attacked anyone before.

In practical terms, as a Scottsdale dog bite victim, you don’t have to prove that the owner was negligent or the dog had a history of aggression to recover damages. Arizona law hold owners accountable even for a first-time bite.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Dog Bite Case?

While dog owners are primarily responsible, liability in Scottsdale dog bite cases can extend to other parties under certain circumstances:

1. Dog Owners – The dog owner is almost always liable for an attack by their dog. Whether the bite occurred on public property, at a park, or inside the owner’s home, the law holds the owner strictly liable for damages suffered by the victim.
2. Property Owners and Landlords – In some situations, property owners and landlords may be partially liable. For instance, if a landlord knew a tenant’s dog was dangerous but failed to take reasonable steps to protect others, they may face legal consequences. However, landlords are not automatically liable just because a dog bite occurred on their property.
3. Dog Sitters or Caretakers – If someone other than the owner was in control of the dog at the time of the incident, such as a dog walker, sitter, or boarding facility, they may share responsibility. Courts often consider who had custody and control over the animal when determining liability.
4. Other Potentially Liable Parties – other parties that may be liable in a dog bite case include businesses, such as pet groomers or kennels, if the bite occurred when they were providing their services. However, each case is fact-specific, and determining liability often requires legal analysis.

Exceptions to Liability in Arizona Dog Bite Cases

While Arizona’s strict liability law seeks to hold the dog owner liable, there are a few exceptions where the owner may not be responsible, including:

• Trespassing. If the victim was unlawfully on private property at the time of the attack, the dog owner may not be liable.
• Provocation. If the victim provoked the dog by teasing, hitting, or otherwise aggravating the animal, the court can reduce or eliminate the owner’s liability.
• Working Professionals – Veterinarians, groomers, and other animal professionals are often considered to have ‘assumed the risk’ of dog-related injuries as part of their work.

Understanding these exceptions is critical, as they affect whether a claim is valid and how the court awards compensation.

Types of Compensation Available for Dog Bite Victims

Dog bite injuries often leave victims with physical and emotional scars. In Scottsdale, the law entitles victims to various forms of compensation, including:

1. Economic damages. These include current and future medical expenses, lost wages if the injury keeps the victim out of work, and long-term care costs in cases of permanent disability.
2. Non-economic damages. These are non-quantifiable damages such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, including anxiety and PTSD, and loss of enjoyment of life due to disfigurement or ongoing trauma.
3. Punitive damages. While rare, the court may award punitive damages if the owner’s conduct was extremely reckless, for instance, knowingly allowing a dangerous dog to roam in a neighborhood.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Scottsdale

If you or a loved one is bitten by a dog in Scottsdale, you need to act quickly to protect your health and legal rights. Some of the steps you can take include:

1. i) Seek Immediate Medical Attention. With even seemingly minor dog bites causing infections or complications, it is advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Getting professional care also ensures your injuries are properly documented.
2. ii) Identify the dog and its owner. Identification is critical when seeking compensation. However, it can also help confirm rabies vaccination for relevant medical treatment.

• iii) Report the Bite. Contact Scottsdale Animal Control or the local police to file an official report. This creates a record of the incident, which may be critical in your case.

1. iv) Gather evidence. Take photos of your injuries, the location where the incident occurred, and the dog, if possible. Collect witness statements and keep copies of medical records and bills.
2. v) Contact a Scottsdale dog bite attorney. A skilled personal injury attorney will evaluate your case, explain your rights under Arizona law, and help you get fair compensation for your injuries.

Why You Need a Dog Bite Lawyer

While Arizona’s strict liability law favors victims, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or shift blame onto the victim. However, an experienced Scottsdale dog bite attorney can help protect your rights. They will prove the extent of your injuries and damages, and negotiate with insurance adjusters on your behalf.

A skilled dog bite lawyer will challenge any attempts to minimize payouts, including claims of provocation or trespassing. They will also represent you in court if necessary. Dog bite cases are not as simple as they appear, but having a lawyer by your side helps protect your rights.

Contact a Scottsdale Dog Bite Attorney

Dog attacks can leave victims dealing with long-term physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Fortunately, Arizona’s strict liability law simplifies the damage recovery process by holding dog owners liable for injuries caused by their pets, regardless of prior behavior. However, not everyone is eligible for compensation. These exceptions and unique circumstances often complicate liability, which is why you need legal representation.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite incident, contact our skilled and experienced Scottsdale dog bite attorney at Huselid & Huselid Law. We will guide you through the legal complexities, protect your rights, and help you get the compensation you need and deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our services.