Were you injured in a dog attack in Tucson, Arizona? If the dog owner failed to control their dog, you could be entitled to significant compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. A Tucson dog bite lawyer at AJ Law, PLC can help you hold the dog owner accountable for these and other losses. Call (602) 512-1933 for a free consultation.
We have decades of experience handling dog bites and other personal injury cases. We’ve recovered tens of millions from the negligent parties who injured our clients. Reach out to us today to learn about your legal options. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.
Why Choose AJ Law, PLC for a Dog Bite Case in Tucson, AZ?
Dog bites stay with victims long after the initial injury. They often cause severe emotional distress and mental health conditions, in addition to medical expenses and physical scarring from the attack.
If you were attacked by a dog, you deserve compensation that helps you overcome such challenges and move forward. A Tucson personal injury lawyer can fight for your rights.
Injured victims in Tucson turn to AJ Law, PLC because:
- We have recovered more than $50 million for injury victims and their families.
- Our attorneys have received recognition from respected legal organizations such as Super Lawyers, the National Trial Lawyers, and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum.
- Our firm has over 20 years of experience focused exclusively on personal injury law in Arizona.
- We handle cases on a contingency fee basis and offer free consultations.
Ready to take action and learn more about your case? Connect with us today via telephone or online and schedule a free case review with a Tucson dog bite attorney.
Arizona’s Dog Attack Laws
Arizona imposes a strict liability rule for dog bite cases. Under this rule, a dog owner may be liable for injuries caused by their dog even if the animal had never previously shown aggressive behavior.
In many situations, a victim does not need to prove that the owner knew the dog was dangerous. Instead, liability may arise if the victim did not provoke the dog, and the victim was legally present at the location where the bite occurred (e.g., dog owner’s property, a public park, sidewalks, etc.).
If you are unsure whether you have a claim after a dog attack, you should consult a Tucson dog bite attorney who can help you evaluate your rights.
What Is My Tucson Dog Bite Case Worth?
The value of a dog bite claim varies depending on the facts of the case. Some attacks result in minor injuries, while others cause severe harm that requires extensive medical care.
The following factors will influence how much money you can recover from a dog bite case:
- The severity of the bite wounds and related injuries
- Whether surgery, hospitalization, or long-term treatment was required
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement related to the attack
- Whether the victim was a child
- Your ability to work after the attack
- Emotional trauma or psychological distress resulting from the attack
- Available insurance coverage
The best way to determine the potential value of your case is to speak with an experienced dog bite lawyer who can evaluate the evidence and assess the damages you may be entitled to.
What Damages Do Dog Bite Cases Provide in Arizona?
Dog attack injuries can generate the need for serious medical care and follow-up treatment, not to mention time away from work.
Fortunately, Arizona law allows victims to pursue compensation for their financial losses and the personal harm caused by the incident.
These damages may include:
- Medical bills
- Future medical care
- Reconstructive surgery
- Physical therapy
- Prescription medications
- Lost wages during recovery
- Reduced future earning ability
- Counseling or mental health treatment
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Cases involving children often have particularly serious damages due to the lasting harm a dog attack can have on their life, mental health, and ability to work.
Common Sources of Compensation for Dog Bite Claims in Tucson
In many cases, payment for a dog bite claim does not come directly from the dog owner’s personal funds. Instead, compensation is available through insurance policies that provide liability coverage for injuries caused by pets.
Several types of insurance may apply after a dog attack in Tucson, including:
Homeowner’s Insurance
Many dog bite claims are resolved through a homeowner’s insurance policy. These policies often include personal liability coverage that protects the homeowner if their dog injures someone. If the attack occurred at the dog owner’s residence, their homeowner’s insurance company may be responsible for paying damages.
Renter’s Insurance
If the dog owner rents their home or apartment, renters’ insurance may provide similar liability coverage. These policies frequently cover injuries caused by the policyholder’s dog, even if the incident occurred outside the home.
Landlord or Property Insurance
In certain situations, a landlord or property manager may share responsibility for a dog attack that occurs on their property. If they were aware of a dangerous animal and failed to take reasonable action to address the risk, their insurance coverage may come into play.
Umbrella Insurance Policies
Some individuals carry umbrella liability policies that provide additional coverage beyond standard homeowner’s or renter’s insurance limits. These policies can significantly increase the total compensation available in serious injury cases.
Of course, you may also be able to pursue a personal judgment from the dog owner, but many individuals lack the personal assets to pay such claims. Therefore, identifying every available insurance policy is an important step in maximizing compensation after a dog attack.
Can I Recover Compensation if I’m Being Blamed for the Dog Bite in Arizona?
Insurance companies sometimes try to avoid paying full compensation by arguing that the victim contributed to the incident. For example, they may claim the victim provoked the dog or entered an area where the animal was confined.
Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which means a victim may still recover compensation even if they share some responsibility for the event.
However, the amount of compensation recovered will typically be reduced according to the victim’s percentage of fault. For example, if your damages total $100,000 but you are found to be 20% responsible for the incident, your recovery could be reduced to $80,000.
Insurance companies sometimes rely on these arguments as a strategy to reduce payouts — not because a victim actually shares fault. An experienced attorney can review the evidence and challenge unfair attempts to shift blame onto the victim.
Common Dog Bite Injuries in Tucson, AZ
Dog bite injuries are often more serious than simple lacerations or puncture wounds. Some incidents lead to serious and even catastrophic harm that affects a victim for years to come.
Bacteria present in a dog’s mouth can also lead to infections. Some victims may require antibiotics, surgical procedures, or reconstructive treatment to repair damaged tissue.
We represent dog bite victims in Tucson who have suffered injuries such as:
- Deep puncture wounds
- Severe lacerations and tissue damage
- Injuries to the face, hands, or arms
- Nerve damage
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
- Infections such as cellulitis or MRSA
- Emotional trauma or anxiety
- Fatal injuries in rare cases
Our goal is to make you whole after the attack by getting the compensation you deserve for medical treatment, therapy, and any other needs that you wouldn’t otherwise require but for the dog bite.
How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Lawsuit in Arizona?
Arizona law places time limits on your ability to file a personal injury lawsuit after a dog attack. In most cases, you will have two years from the date of the incident to file a claim in court. If you fail to file a lawsuit within this time period, you may lose the right to pursue compensation in court.
There are limited exceptions to this rule. For example, when the victim is a minor, the statute of limitations may be paused until the child turns 18. Even so, it is still important to begin investigating the case as soon as possible.
Speaking with a lawyer early in the process ensures you do not run afoul of the statute of limitations. Reach out to AJ Law, PLC to protect your right to take legal action.
Contact a Tucson Dog Bite Lawyer for a Free Consultation
A dog attack can leave lasting physical and emotional scars that you should never have to deal with. Fortunately, you can seek accountability through a personal injury claim and hold the dog owner liable for the harm you’ve experienced.
The Tucson dog bite lawyers at AJ Law, PLC can help you. We have decades of experience holding dog owners and other negligent parties responsible for negligent conduct. We’re here to help you get justice.
If you or your child were injured in a dog bite incident, contact AJ Law, PLC today to schedule a free consultation with a Tucson dog bite attorney.
