from 600+ Google reviews
Dog bite regulations in Arizona are set up in a way to be beneficial to those injured by dog bites. Here are the important points under Arizona law on dog bite cases:
Strict Liability: Arizona implements a “strict liability” doctrine when it comes to dog bites. Dog owners can be held liable for injuries caused by a dog bite even if the owner believes the dog was not dangerous. This differs from “one-bite” states where an owner might only be held accountable if they were aware of the dog’s harmful tendencies.
Exceptions: The strict liability rule does not apply if the person bitten provoked the dog, trespassed, or otherwise committed an illegal conduct at the time of the bite. The dog owner can use these defenses to her advantage.
Location Matters: In some contexts, where the bite occurred might be relevant. For instance, if the bite happens in a public place or if the victim is lawfully in a private place (such as the dog owner’s property), then the dog owner is generally liable. However, if the person bitten was unlawfully in a private place, the strict liability rule might not apply.
Negligence: Aside from the strict liability rule, a victim may also pursue a claim based on negligence if, for example, the owner was negligent in controlling or restraining the dog.
Statute of Limitations: In Arizona, the statute of limitations for dog bite claims is typically two years from the date of the bite.
Comparative Negligence: Since Arizona generally follows a comparative negligence standard, any damages awarded may be reduced based on the victim’s degree of fault.
Consult with a personal injury attorney in Arizona who is experienced in handling dog bite accident cases to better understand your specific situation and determine who might be liable. They can assess the facts, investigate the incident, and help pursue appropriate legal action if necessary.
If you are involved in a dog bite accident in Arizona, it is essential to follow these steps to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible for your injuries:
Generally, no. You should NEVER communicate directly with representatives from the other party’s insurance company or risk management company unless your dog bite accident lawyer has authorized you to do so. You should only discuss the specifics of the accident or your injuries with your lawyer.
If a representative attempts to contact you, kindly inform them that you have engaged an attorney to represent you. The representative should then contact your attorney and cease contacting you. If they persist in contacting you, immediately notify your attorney. We will then file a complaint with the Department of Insurance or the appropriate governing body, as it is unfair claims practice for a representative to contact a party they know is represented by an attorney.
Generally, the answer is “No”. Remember, neither the insurance company nor the risk management company works for you – they work for the entity responsible for your accident. Often, even before you receive medical attention and understand the full extent of your injuries, a claims adjuster may contact you and present a low, inadequate offer. They hope that you’ll accept this offer before fully comprehending your damages.
Many people accept these offers and sign a release, only to discover further complications “down the road”. In many states, including Arizona, such a release is usually worded in a way that makes it nearly impossible to seek further compensation after signing, even if you discover your injuries are much more serious than initially anticipated. It is strongly advised not to agree to any offers without first consulting a proficient Arizona dog bite accident attorney.
Facing a team of skilled professionals without having your legal representation is unwise. It is possible to pursue your claim alone, but you will be at the other party’s mercy.
The other party will make you only a small offer or will simply deny your claim altogether. Unless you are well-trained in the law and understand your legal rights, it will be very difficult to combat public entities or large corporations all on your own and know which avenues you should pursue. Each attorney at our firm is a well-trained, skilled dog bite accident attorney in Arizona.
IMMEDIATELY. Hiring experienced dog bite accident lawyers, like those at Warnock MacKinlay Law, is vital if you are injured in a dog bite accident. Unfortunately, we see so many victims attempt to represent themselves and generally fail miserably for several reasons. Studies have shown that a claimant who is represented by legal counsel “nets” (after medical bills and attorney fees) in excess of 300% more money than those who handle their own claim. The only thing more important than hiring a qualified lawyer after a dog bite accident is seeking medical attention, and the lawyers at Warnock MacKinlay Law can help you with a good, competent accident doctor.
It’s challenging to pinpoint an exact timeline for your dog bite accident claim due to the unique aspects of every case. Generally, cases that settle before filing a lawsuit conclude more rapidly than those going to trial.
At Warnock MacKinlay Law, we are committed to securing the maximum compensation in the shortest time possible, balancing the need for thoroughness and speed. Typically, cases might settle two to four months after your medical care is completed. However, this timeframe can be shorter or longer depending on various factors such as the complexity of your case, the entities involved, and the extent of your injuries. Our team is dedicated to guiding you through this process, no matter the length of time required.
Of course. If you are unhappy with your current lawyer for whatever reason, feel free to reach out. We get a lot of cases involving individuals who weren’t being taken care of properly by their previous attorneys.
The amount of money you will ultimately recover depends on a variety of issues, the most important of which is the nature of your injuries caused by the accident and the comprehensive medical treatment you receive for those injuries.
At Warnock MacKinlay Law, we will help you seek reimbursement for any or all of the following:
If you would like to get a better idea of the value of your case, give us a call. Our intake specialists can give you a much better idea after talking through the details of your case.
At Warnock MacKinlay Law, our expertise lies in building value for your injuries and achieving the best possible financial outcome without the necessity of going to trial. While in certain cases a lawsuit might be necessary, most are resolved before reaching the trial stage.
The probability of a case being settled or going to trial depends on the specifics of each case. If an insurance company or risk management entity contests liability (fault) or disputes the value of your claim, your case might be more likely to go to trial.
Our team boasts over 100 years of combined experience and we are equipped to represent you effectively. It’s crucial to have a lawyer who is known by insurers to be willing to file a lawsuit if needed, as this can enhance the chances of achieving a favorable settlement through negotiation. Insurers are aware of the law firms that are prepared to file suit and those that aren’t.
