What Happens After You’re Bit By A Dog On Someone Else’s Property

Article Summary

• Dog owners in Arizona are required by law to stay at the scene of the bite and exchange contact information with the person who was bitten.
• Every dog bite needs to be reported to the county’s animal control unit, which will give quarantine instructions and manage a field investigation of the incident.
• Emotional damages can and should be included in a compensation case following a dog bite.
  

Dogs are truly man’s best friend, but they’ve also got sharp teeth. And all too often, those teeth can leave marks. Even the friendliest of dogs may surprise an owner, act out of character, and bite someone.

In fact, dog bites are on the rise across Maricopa County, Arizona’s largest county. Statistics indicate that animal control received more than 2,000 reports of dog bites in 2024, which was a notable increase over the previous year. That averages out to more than five bites a day. 

Dog bites vary in severity. And the events that follow a dog bite also vary, based on a number of factors. As a law firm experienced in handling dog bite compensation claims, our team at Torgenson Law has seen its fair share of clients navigating the aftermath of a dog bite.

Those incidents can leave behind physical pain and scarring as well as a lasting emotional imprint that could impact how someone interacts with dogs in the future, regardless of the dog’s level of aggression. 

All of these variables are considered when initiating a dog bite compensation claim in Arizona.

Who Is Liable For A Dog Bite?

When a dog bites someone, there is an established process to follow in Arizona. The bite needs to be reported to Animal Control, and the dog needs to be quarantined for several days to rule out the presence of rabies.

In addition, Arizona dog owners are required to exchange contact information with the person who was bit or face the potential of future charges. From there, an investigation is done by a field officer to determine if the dog owner should face charges related to liability for the bite. The investigation will look at whether the dog has a history of aggression or if the dog was properly restrained, and it will look at other factors that may have influenced the incident. 

If the investigation determines that no charges are needed, the person who was bit may choose to pursue civil litigation. Dog owners, and potentially property owners, may be found responsible for financial and emotional damages related to a bite. An experienced dog bite attorney can offer valuable professional guidance throughout the process.

Finding A Phoenix Dog Bite Attorney

Dog bite compensation claims may be necessary when certain circumstances are present. If medical attention is needed, such as emergency care and follow-up treatment, that is one indicator that compensation could be pursued. If a bite is so severe that it leads to stitches, surgery or hospitalization, or if an infection or rabies develops, a desire for compensation is certainly warranted. 

There are also other factors, including lost wages and time missed at work, a reduced earning potential due to the injuries sustained from the bite, and lasting emotional trauma that leads to distress and anxiety. Scarring and the need for cosmetic surgery also factor into the compensation equation. 

Regardless of whether a dog owner faces charges for a dog bite, it may be in your best interest to consider pursuing compensation, especially if there is lasting damage or significant expense related to your injuries. At Torgenson Law, a consultation on your situation could provide clarity and guidance on your next steps.

No one should navigate a dog bite alone. The team at Torgenson Law is here to support you through this process, ensuring your best interests are represented. If you or a loved one has experienced a dog bite, reach out to our team today.

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