New Arizona Dog Bite Law: What the “Bite and Run” Rule Means for Victims

Article Summary

• Yes. A new dog bite law became effective in Arizona in September of 2025, requiring dog owners to stay at the scene and exchange information with the victim.
• Consequences for fleeing the scene include a Class 2 Misdemeanor, which could result in fines and potential jail time.
• The previous law only required that the dog bite be reported to animal control. 

Arizona has had a pretty cut-and-dry approach for handling situations where a dog bites someone who isn’t its owner. But a new law has added even more strength to the state’s stance on dog bite liability, putting even more onus on the dog owner while boosting victim’s rights.

Known as the “Bite and Run Law,” the statute requires the owner of a dog that has bitten someone to provide the victim with contact information. Not doing so could result in a Class 2 Misdemeanor charge, a classification used to charge other crimes such as criminal trespassing, leaving the scene of an accident, reckless driving and underage drinking. 

The updated law, which carries with it the potential for jail time and fines, is an effort to ensure that victims receive information about the animal’s vaccinations. It also aims to enforce liability. 

Arizona Bite And Run Law

Dog owners have always been responsible if their canine bites someone. The state has utilized a strict liability rule for dog bites, meaning its owner is always financially responsible for a bite, whether it happens on public or private property. The two caveats for liability in a dog bite situation are if the victim was trespassing or if the victim was in some way provoking the dog. 

Under the previous law, dog bites were only required to be reported to animal control, which could leave the victim without needed information. The updated law, which became effective in September of 2025, requires the owner to stay at the scene of the bite and exchange pertinent information with the victim. 

By strengthening liability and encouraging documentation of dog bite incidents, this new law makes it easier for dog bite victims to pursue compensation if they need or decide to.

Arizona Dog Bite Claims

At Torgenson Law, we’ve been successfully fighting for dog bite victims for more than a decade. We understand that dog bites can not only cause severe physical pain and injuries, but they can also leave an imprint of emotional trauma, particularly with children. 

While every situation is unique, from the circumstances to the injuries that were experienced, it’s important to inquire about legal representation following a dog bite that caused injuries in case a compensation case can be pursued. At Torgerson Law, we’ll give it to you straight based on our many years as an established Arizona dog bite lawyer. 

If you’re wondering, “Can I sue for a dog bite?” The answer is, yes. However, we’ve found that the claims are strongest when a bite has caused: 

• A puncture wound requiring stitches, staples or surgery.
• Tissue damage, nerve damage or broken bones.
• Visible scarring or disfigurement.
• A permanent disability or loss of function. 
• Debt related to medical bills for care and physical therapy.
• Missed work and lost wages.
• Trauma or emotional distress.

When evaluating Arizona dog bite claims for compensation, they are generally recommended for pursuit if the injury from the bite had a significant effect on a person’s life, health, or income level. Even if the impact was temporary, compensation may be warranted.

When compensation is warranted, negotiations are needed with insurance companies, and those negotiations may need to escalate to a legal claim. It’s why dog bite victims should seek guidance from an Arizona dog bite lawyer, like the team at Torgenson Law.

No one should handle dog bite claims without a personal injury lawyer. The team at Torgenson Law is here to support you through this process, ensuring your best interests are represented. If you’ve been bitten, reach out to our team today.

No pressure, no upfront costs, just answers from a legal team that takes your recovery personally.