Dogs are typically wonderful companions that bring joy to many. Unfortunately, any dog can bite and cause severe and sometimes fatal injuries. Many individuals in Arizona may avoid reporting dog bites because they fear for the animal’s safety. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it is essential to report any bite for your safety and the safety of others. If you were attacked by a dog in Arizona, an experienced attorney can help you navigate the aftermath and pursue compensation for the damages you suffered.
The knowledgeable attorneys at Jensen Phelan Law Firm are committed to helping dog bite victims fight for their rights and achieve the justice they deserve. We are knowledgeable of Arizona personal injury laws and are ready to apply our experience and skills to your unique case. Our attorneys are dedicated to getting to know you and your case so we can personalize our services to your needs. When you retain our services, you can have peace of mind that a seasoned legal professional is handling your claim.
If you were bitten by a dog in Arizona, immediately contact local law enforcement to file a report. Many counties in Arizona allow you to make a report online. Contact your local animal control website for further details about online reporting. It is important to immediately determine whether the dog is up-to-date on necessary vaccinations.
When you call to report the bite, you will be asked to provide any identifying information, such as the animal’s color, breed, and size, as well as any other unique features that can help animal control locate the dog. You should make a list before making your report of all the identifying information such as the dog’s size, color, breed if you know, color or type of the collar and any other identifying information such as the type of ears (standing up or laying down), tails (cropped or natural), scars, etc. You will also be asked to provide the location of the incident and the details of how it occurred. Arizona applies strict liability when it comes to dog bites, so the only acceptable defense dog owners have against liability is asserting the victim provoked the dog, resulting in the attack. Your animal control report can serve as vital evidence in your claim to establish the owner’s liability and recover compensation for your injuries.
After reporting the bite, local animal control officials will likely investigate the incident. If the dog was unvaccinated, it must be quarantined for 10 days before being released back to the owner. It is essential to note that this quarantine period is not a punishment and is meant to determine whether the dog has rabies for your safety and the safety of others. It is essential to note that if the dog shows signs of rabies or if it is determined to be vicious, it may not be released to the owner. However, this determination will be made with the interests of public health in mind and to prevent others from suffering the same severe injuries as the initial victim.
If you are bitten by a dog in Arizona, it is essential to contact an attorney to begin your case as soon as possible. The dog bite attorneys at Jensen Phelan Law Firm have over 70 years of combined experience helping dog bite victims hold negligent pet owners accountable for the pain and suffering they caused. We understand how challenging recovering from dog bite injuries can be, and we will handle every aspect of your case as we fight aggressively for justice on your behalf. To schedule a free case review and explanation of your rights, call us at (928) 778-2660 or (520) 344-7484 or complete our contact form today.