If you encounter the unfortunate experience of being bitten by a dog in Arizona, you may have a legal claim. The imposition of Strict Liability was put in place to hold dog owners liable for all dog bites. If you are bitten, you must first seek medical attention. Directly thereafter, it is crucial to contact a knowledgeable dog bite attorney.
Here is vital information you need to know if you are bitten by a dog in Arizona:
Arizona’s Dog Bite Statute
As reflected in section 11-1025 of Arizona Revised Statutes, Arizona has mandated the law which covers dog bite legal cases. The dog owner will be found liable if the injured party can prove:
- The injury received was directly caused by the dog bite, and
- The dog bite was endured while the injured party was public or lawfully in a private place.
This statute solely reflects dog bite situations; nothing further. The injured party bears the burden of proof of showing the owner failed to use reasonable care, which would have prevented the dog from biting.
Strict Liability
In Arizona, there is a “Strict Liability” statute in place. This means that the owner of the dog who bit the victim is liable. This additionally pertains to whether or not the owner was aware the dog would bite or if the dog has bitten someone before. The owner is responsible, nonetheless.
Arizona does not recognize the “one bite” rule, which states the owner is only responsible if there is proof the dog has bitten someone before and/or the owner was aware the dog is aggressive.
Strict liability also applies if the bite occurred from a dog at large. This means the owner is responsible when the following occur:
- The dog is “not confined by an enclosure,” or
- The dog is not “physically restrained by a leash.”
No matter the circumstances, in Arizona, if a dog bites someone, the owner is liable.
Dog Bite Statute of Limitations
If you are bitten by a dog, you have a set amount of time to file a legal claim. In Arizona, the case must be filed within 1 year of the date of the attack. If you do not file within the allotted timeframe, your case will likely not be heard.
In order to preserve your full legal rights in a dog bite case, it is imperative to file your claim within 1 year of the date of the incident. If you do not file within the 1 year time period, you may be giving up important legal rights.
It is imperative to hire a reputable dog bite attorney to represent your legal case. Time is of the essence.
Contact Attorney David Klink Today!
If you or a loved one was bitten by a dog in Arizona, contact David Klink today. Mr. Klink is a knowledgeable, reputable dog bite attorney who specializes in personal injury law in Arizona. He will provide sympathy and legal support throughout this sensitive, healing time.
Mr. Klink will fight for your rights and the compensation you deserve. You may be entitled to medical bill coverage, paid time off of work and future compensation to aid in your healing. Call (602) 483-6059 today for a free initial consultation!