Tempe Dog Bite Attorney

Were You or Your Children Injured by an Animal IN THE EAST VALLEY (MESA, CHANDLER, GILBERT, & SCOTTSDALE), PINAL COUNTY, GILA COUNTY & ACROSS ARIZONA

Animals can be unpredictable. Although you hear more about dogs attacking, other animals can attack too, and it all too often results in serious personal injuries, emotional trauma, and even wrongful death. While some dog breeds like pit bulls, rottweilers, and other big dogs seem to receive the most attention, any dog can obviously bite, and, under certain circumstances, any dog or animal can become a dangerous animal.

Though a dog bite or other animal attack case may seem relatively simple, the issues are often more complex than they appear and involve questions of legal liability and insurance coverage. At the Law Office of Douglas B. Price, we represent adults and children throughout Arizona who have been injured by dogs and other pets.

Arizona Law Regarding Dog Bites & Animal Attacks

A person who keeps or has control of an animal may be liable for injuries or property damage caused by the animal. A “keeper” of an animal is defined as a person who “harbors, protects, or shelters” the animal. This person does not necessarily have to be the actual owner of the animal. However, an owner who retains some degree of control over the animal can still be liable for its behavior, even when the animal is under the care of others.

The laws of Arizona provide that the owner of an attacking dog is strictly liable for injuries caused by dog bites. Under Arizona law:

“Injury to any person or damage to property by a dog while at large is the full responsibility of the dog owner or person responsible for the dog when such damages were inflicted. The owner of a dog that bites a person when the person is in a public place or lawfully in a private place, including the property of the owner of the dog, is liable for damages suffered by the person bitten, regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owner’s knowledge of its viciousness.”

When deciding whether or not to press charges against the dog’s owner, it is wise to consult with an attorney who understands this area of law. We can help you understand your options and receive just compensation for any physical injury, lost wages, future medical costs, and other expenses associated with the dog bite or attack.

If you or someone you care about has been injured by a dog bite or an animal attack, call (480) 345-8100 for a free initial consultation.