What to Do After a Dog Bite: Legal and Medical Considerations

A dog bite can be painful, leaving you with physical wounds, intellectual distress, and a flurry of questions on what to do subsequently. In this manual, we will cross into detail approximately the critical movements you must take legally and medically following a Dog bite incident. We are here to help you get through this challenging condition, whether you want advice on dealing with Legal factors or comprehending the Medical implications.

Understanding the Impact of a Dog Bite

Dog bites can result in critical bodily injuries, permanent scarring, and psychological consequences. The aftermath of a dog bite can be overwhelming. Apart from the instantaneous ache and potential scarring, sufferers may additionally experience long periods of emotional misery, worry about dogs, and anxiety. This is why taking appropriate actions following a dog bite is important for your universal well-being.

Under Arizona Law, there are three “classes” of dog bite injuries

1. Strict Liability Dog Bites – An owner of a dog that bites another is strictly liable for the victim’s injuries and damages, regardless of where the bite occurs and regardless of whether the dog has ever bitten before. Claims under this statute are subject to a one-year statute of limitations, meaning you have one year from the bite to either settle with the dog owner or file suit against them. The only recognized affirmative defenses to these types of bites are trespass and/or provocation.
2. Strict Liability for “Dog at Large” Injuries. If a dog is not on their property and is unleashed, they are considered “at large.” Their owner is strictly liable for any injuries their dog causes while “at large,” and the injuries do not have to be the result of an actual dog bite. A dog at large can knock someone over, etc. Claims under this statute are subject to a one-year statute of limitations, meaning you have one year from the bite to either settle with the dog owner or file suit against them. 
3. General Negligence. General negligence claims are subject to a two-year statute of limitations and are often brought if too late to file under one of the one-year strict liability statutes. In this scenario, one has to prove their injuries are the result of the dog owner’s negligence

Most dog bite injury claims are covered by the dog owners’ homeowners liability insurance or renters insurance.

If injured from a dog bite:

• Contact Animal Control/Police ASAP to report the incident and identify the offending dog and its owner.
• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even what appear to be minor bites can become infected, resulting in surgical debridements. So prompt medical attention is highly recommended.
• Consult a Dog Bite Injury Attorney: If you have suffered significant injuries, it’s recommended to seek guidance from a lawyer who specializes in cases related to dog bites. These legal professionals possess expertise in handling the intricacies of such situations and can help you comprehend your rights and potential compensation.
• Preserve Evidence: Just as with Medical considerations, documenting proof is crucial for legal lawsuits. Keep copies of medical records, images of your injuries, and any correspondence with the Dog owner or authorities.
  
• Document Your Injuries: To construct a robust case, document your injuries by taking clean photos of the wound at distinctive levels of recovery. This visible proof can be valuable in each medical and legal context. 

Why You Need Lawyers That Handle Dog Bites

Navigating the Legal aftermath of a dog bite may be hard, specifically while coping with bodily and emotional recuperation. This is where skilled lawyers who manage dog bite cases are available. They possess the know-how and expertise to

• Assess the Strength of Your Case: Skilled lawyers can compare the instances of your dog bite incident and decide whether or not you have a valid case for searching for reimbursement.

• Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Dealing with coverage organizations can be complicated, but a knowledgeable legal professional can negotiate on your behalf to make certain you acquire fair compensation for medical prices, emotional misery, and other damages.
  

• Construct a Robust Legal Strategy: Attorneys with expertise in dog bite cases comprehend how to effectively gather and present evidence, bolstering your case and increasing the likelihood of a successful outcome
• Offer Legal Counsel: Leveraging their comprehensive understanding of the legal process, these attorneys can navigate you through each stage, guaranteeing that you make well-informed decisions that safeguard your rights and interests.
  

Conclusion 

Experiencing a dog bite is a distressing event that calls for a cautious and properly-informed response. By adhering to the appropriate medical and legal procedures, you can’t best ensure your physical healing but additionally, search for the reimbursement you deserve. From searching for immediate Medical interest to consulting skilled legal professionals who handle dog bite cases, these actions are important for defending your well-being and your rights in the aftermath of a dog bite incident.

Book a Free Consultation With One of Our Trusted Dog Bite Attorneys In Phoenix

As a victim of Dog Bite in Phoenix, our legal team at Lebovitz Law Group can help you get maximum compensation from the negligent party. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us until we win your case. Contact us today for a free case review. Call 602-975-5550.