What are the common mistakes to avoid when filing a Scottsdale dog bite injury claim?

September 14, 2023

Being a dog bite victim can be a traumatizing experience, especially when it results in serious injuries, hospitalization, or even death. When a dog bite occurs, it’s essential to act swiftly and seek medical attention. Besides, you’re entitled to compensation if the bite was due to the owner’s negligence. However, filing a dog bite injury claim can be a challenging process and is subject to many legal requirements and deadlines. As the best dog bite lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ, I have seen many clients make common mistakes when filing injury claims. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most common mistakes to avoid to increase your chances of success. So, what are the common mistakes to avoid when filing a Scottsdale dog bite injury claim?

#1: Failing to Report the Incident

The first step in filing a dog bite injury claim is to report the incident to the authorities. The report will be invaluable evidence to support your claim. This report should include the dog owner’s name, address, phone number, and any other relevant information, including witnesses’ names and numbers. You should also make a report of the incident to your local animal control agency and the police. Importantly, it’s advisable to take photographs of the injury and the scene where the incident occurred.

#2: Not Seeking Medical Help Promptly

After a dog bite incident, seeking medical help should be your priority. Failing to seek medical help promptly makes it hard to prove the extent of your injuries if you choose to file an injury claim. Moreover, dog bites can lead to serious infections even if they appear minor initially. Therefore, it’s essential to get the wound cleaned and treated professionally and have your injuries documented for future reference.

#3: Failing to Hire an Experienced Dog Bite Lawyer

As a Scottsdale injury victim, you are legally entitled to compensation. Still, you may not be aware of the legal procedures associated with a dog bite personal injury claim. You should consider hiring a personal injury attorney who specializes in dog bite cases to guide you through the process. An attorney will help you gather evidence, file your claim within the statute of limitations, and negotiate with the responsible parties’ insurance companies. Your attorney will ensure you get the right compensation for all the damages you’ve suffered, including medical expenses, lost wages, emotional trauma, and pain and suffering.

#4: Settling the Case Too Quickly

As a dog bite victim, settling the case too early can cause regret in the future. Insurance companies are often eager to settle dog bite personal injury claims quickly, and they tend to present lowball offers early in the process. It’s essential to be patient and consult with your attorney before accepting any settlement offers. Your attorney will thoroughly analyze the case and assess the damages you’ve suffered, both short-term and long-term. Besides, your attorney will review the insurance coverage and negotiate with the insurance company to achieve a settlement that adequately compensates you for all your losses.

#5: Not Being Aware of Arizona Dog Bite Laws

Dog bite laws in Arizona can be complex, and if you’re not aware of these laws, you may end up hurting your case. Arizona law operates under a strict liability rule, which means that the dog’s owner is liable for all damages arising from the bite, even if the dog had no history of biting or was running loose. However, this rule may not apply to some situations, such as when the victim is trespassing, provoking the dog, or abusing it. Additionally, Arizona has a two-year statute of limitations within which to file a dog bite personal injury claim. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with a dog bite attorney to help you navigate the legal requirements.