Mesa Dog Bite Lawyer

Although some adults are attacked, most dog bite victims are children. If a child is bitten by a dog, the parent will need a Mesa dog bite attorney to obtain the necessary information and file a claim with the dog owner’s insurance company. Most dog bites are covered by a homeowner’s or renter’s policy. Attorneys at Dove Law Firm represents dog bite victims in Mesa, Arizona. We will demand fair compensation with aggressive representation after a dog attack.

Mesa Dog Bite Lawyer Shawn Dove

Top Rated Mesa Dog Bite Attorney

Providing Quality Legal Representation for Victims & Their Families

Our law firm loves animals, especially dogs. Unfortunately, as a personal injury firm, we often see the dark side of animal ownership. Dogs can cause serious injuries and even death. These injuries along with potential complications can cause deep scaring, permanent disfigurement and the need for long-term care. There are millions of dog attacks each year. In fact, in 2019, 4.7 million dog bites were reported. We will help those that have suffered a dog bite holding the dog owner responsible and obtain the maximum settlement. To request a free consultation with a Dove Law Firm attorney, call 480-213-4489 now. You will speak with an attorney, not a secretary or paralegal.

Top Rated Mesa Dog Bite Attorney On Avvo
5 Star Rated Mesa Dog Bite Lawyer On Google
Top Rated Mesa Dog Bite Lawyer On Yelp
5 Star Rated Dog Bite Attorney On Facebook

Types Of Severe Injuries Caused By Mesa Dog Attacks

Dog bite victims should seek legal help to recover full medical bill compensation

Puncture Wounds, Lacerations & Scarring

When you experience a dog bite, you likely will experience a puncture wound, laceration, and possible scarring. All of these types of wounds can lead to complications and long recovery times. As soon as you get the medical attention you need directly after a dog bite, reach out to our lawyers who will work diligently to ensure you are compensated fully for the medical bills you build up as you get the care you need.

Dog bite victims should seek legal help to recover full medical bill compensation for nerve damage

Nerve Damage & Loss Of Mobility

Dog bites tend to happen on the hands, arms, legs, face, neck, and feet of a person. Oftentimes they can crush, tear, or puncture nerves and muscles which can lead to constant numbness, tingling, weakness, and mobility problems. Loss of mobility can have a huge impact on your daily life. If you have been bit by a dog and are experiencing these results, be sure you have a lawyer who can claim compensation for your damages.

Deep dog bite wounds can introduce bacteria under the skin

Disease Risks: Rabies, Tetanus & Infections

Rabies is rare in dogs, but if symptoms occur, it is almost always fatal. Bites can get deep into your tissues and can leave behind bacteria under the skin. This can cause bacterial infections which in turn can lead to life-threatening conditions if left untreated. Be sure you take the appropriate procedures after a dog bite and ensure the dog is quarantined and checked for rabies. That way you can recover as quickly as possible without too many medical complications.

PTSD, anxiety and emotional trauma after a dog attack

Psychological
Trauma & PTSD

Many clients that our lawyers work with experience psychological trauma or PTSD after a serious dog bite. These damages can last long after the physical wounds are healed. A person could experience anxiety attacks, nightmares, fear of dogs, social withdrawal, hypervigilance, and more. Some will experience flashbacks, intrusive memories, or heightened startle reactions. If you are experiencing psychological trauma, counseling, trauma therapy, and other types of therapy can help significantly. Contact our lawyers to see how we can help you towards some answers.

Awards

Dove Love Firm is recognized by the following organizations

Top 10 criminal attorneys Shawn Dove
5 star Mesa dog bite attorney on Avvo
The national trial lawyers top 40 under 40
Arizona state bar attorney Shawn Dove
NAOPIA attorney Shawn Haven Dove
Avvo clients' choice car accident lawyer in Arizona

How We Gather Evidence For Your Dog Bite Claim

Report the attack to Animal Control

Securing Maricopa County Animal Control Reports

Animal control reports can be some of the most important pieces of evidence that you can provide. After a dog bite, our lawyers will step into action, working quickly to help you secure a Maricopa County Animal Control Report. This report will include the date and location of the attack, the dog owner’s identity, witness information, description of injuries, and much more. It is a detailed record of the incident from an objective perspective and our lawyers will ensure you have this important piece of evidence.

Collecting witness statements and video evidence to strengthen dog bite claims

Collecting Witness Statements & Video Footage

Another piece of evidence that is helpful is witness statements and video footage. Some dog bites were caught on security footage or someone’s private home’s video footage. Our lawyers will investigate the case and will gather any and all video footage available of the incident. We will also collect witness statements from anyone directly involved. This testimony can be hard for insurance companies to fight against when trying to reduce a settlement amount. Contact us today to get started!

Leveraging medical expert witness testimony to build a powerful dog bite injury case

Utilizing Medical
Expert Testimony

Our lawyers will work directly with your emergency room physicians, orthopedic specialists, psychologists, physical therapists, and other medical professionals to put together a strong medical expert witness testimony. This expert testimony will be powerful evidence that you experienced significant injuries and that the dog bite was the reason for the injuries. Don’t face your dog bite alone. Be sure to have our skilled lawyers on your side for the best possible outcome in your case!

Client Reviews & Testimonials

Experienced Mesa Dog Bite Injury Lawyer

Always consult an experienced dog bite attorney after a dog bite. You may have a claim. A five star Mesa dog bite attorney will investigate the facts of the dog attack to advise you whether the owner may be responsible for your injuries. Call 877-368-3529 to schedule your free consultation with Attorney Dove today.

Local Dog Bite Attorney In Mesa AZ

Professional Dog Bite Injury Lawyer In Mesa

Dog bite lawyer, Shawn Dove, would like to hear the facts of your case. He will guide you through the process and deal with the insurance companies, health insurance bills and other obstacles in your case. When you hire Dove Law Firm, you receive great communication from our lawyers. If you have a question or concern, contact us and you will receive an answer within 48 hours.

Arizona protects victims of dog bites with strict liability laws

Arizona’s Strict Liability Dog Bite Laws Protect You

Arizona dog bite laws force dog owners to be strictly liable if their dog attacks a human being. Arizona, unlike other states, enforce strict liability laws which make the dog owner liable for damages even if the dog has never shown vicious tendencies before the attack. Other states allow one bite before the dog owner becomes liable for their dog’s actions.

Just because a person was bitten, doesn’t necessarily mean that the dog owner is responsible. There are a few defenses to a dog bite claim that exist. For example, if the person that was bitten was trespassing, the owner of the dog and property may escape liability. If the person that is bit provokes the dog before the bite, the owner may not be liable.

Owners and victims should understand dog bite laws in Arizona

Mesa Dog Bite Laws You Should Know

The City of Chandler established rules for responsible pet ownership. If someone is bitten by a dog, immediately call the Maricopa County Animal Care and Control Office Their phone number is 602-506-7387. Call Dove Law Firm at 480-213-4489 for a completely free consultation with the Mesa dog bite attorney. Important rules for dog ownership in Mesa include:

  • Dogs that are four months old and older must be vaccinated and licensed annually.
  • Only dogs used for hunting or livestock control may be loose.
  • Dogs that are outside of a home must be on a leash no longer than six feet or confined in a suitable enclosure.
  • It is illegal for a dog owner to allow a dog that barks to the point of disturbing the peace.
  • Maricopa County Rabies and Animal Control enforces most animal ordinances and laws related to dogs in Mesa.
What to do when you've been injured by a dog

Legal Steps to Take After a Dog Bite Injury In Mesa

A dog attack is often terrifying and stressful. It is difficult to know what to do after a dog bite. If you suffered a dog attack, pick up the phone and call 480-213-4489 now for a free consultation with a dog bite attorney near you. After a dog attack, follow this checklist drafted by our experienced Mesa dog bite injury attorneys:

  • Seek medical attention. Do not delay as an infection can take place. Additionally, severe delay in treatment can negatively affect your case.
  • Report the dog bite to animal control immediately.
  • Report the dog bite to the owner.
  • Obtain eyewitness contact information.
  • Take photographs with your phone.
  • Follow through with all recommended medical treatment.
  • Keep copies of all financial loss related to the incident.
  • Contact Dove Law Firm.
contact an injury attorney right away after suffering the dog attack

When You Should Contact a Mesa Dog Bite Injury Attorney

The short answer is right away. You can greatly benefit from retaining an experienced dog bite attorney. Our consultations are absolutely free and we do not use hard sales tactics, like other firms. Take advantage of our free consultation with an attorney. You won’t be meeting with a paralegal or secretary. If any of the following situations apply to your dog bite case, we strongly urge you to contact our law firm:

  • Traumatic injuries
  • Permanent impairments and/or disabilities
  • Financial losses are substantial
  • Salary loss or ability to earn a living
  • Scarring or disfigurement
  • Children are involved
  • The insurance company denies liability for the claim

Best Dog Bite Law Firm Nearby Mesa

Trusted Mesa Dog Bite Injury Lawsuit Help

The Arizona dog bite attorneys at Dove Law Firm believe that victims are entitled to full compensation for all damages that they have suffered due to the dog bite. Let our legal team help fight for fair compensation. There is absolutely no money down. No one pays anything until we win or settle the case. If we don’t recover compensation for the dog bite claim, you will not owe anything to our firm.

Top Mesa AZ Dog Bite Personal Injury Lawyer
Top Mesa AZ Dog Bite Personal Injury Lawyer

Dove Law Firm is a top Mesa, AZ Dog bite injury lawyer that can provide you with the legal representation you need when you are seeking damages inflicted by a dog bite. We also have trusted Chandler restraining order lawyers & AZ criminal defense attorneys to help with all of your legal needs.

#1 Rated Mesa Dog Bite Personal Injury Attorney
#1 Rated Mesa Dog Bite Personal Injury Attorney

As a #1 rated Mesa dog bite injury attorney, our team is also equipped to handle a variety of other matters with Arizona commercial and civil litigation lawyers, Mesa car accident attorneys, and much more. Contact our Arizona personal injury law firm today to find out all the services we offer.

Mesa Dog Bite Personal Injury Claim Legal Help
Mesa Dog Bite Personal Injury Claim Legal Help

When you have been bitten by a dog, it can leave you scarred both emotionally and physically, as can a variety of other injuries. At Dove Law Firm, we have Arizona personal injury lawyers, Mesa motorcycle accident attorneys, and dog bite lawyers who can help get you the compensation you deserve.

File A Dog Bite Personal Injury Lawsuit In Mesa
File A Dog Bite Personal Injury Lawsuit In Mesa

Dove Law Firm can not only help you file a dog bite personal injury lawsuit in Mesa, but we also have Mesa restraining order lawyers, Arizona DUI defense attorneys, and motorcycle accident lawyers in AZ who can help provide you with expert legal counsel when you need it most.

Five Star Dog Bite Law Office Nearby In Mesa
Five Star Dog Bite Law Office Nearby In Mesa

Dove Law Firm is a trusted five star dog bite law office near Mesa that also provides a variety of criminal defense and personal injury services. Consult with our Arizona marijuana lawyers, Chandler DUI attorneys, and car accident lawyers in Arizona to find out how we can help you.

5 Star East Mesa AZ Dog Bite Legal Team Near Me
5 Star East Mesa AZ Dog Bite Legal Team Near Me

Do you need an East Mesa, AZ dog attack legal team who can give you fair representation? At Dove Law Firm, our dog bite lawyers are equipped to handle a variety of matters. From Arizona restraining order lawyers and Mesa DUI defense attorneys, we do it all. Contact our AZ personal injury attorneys today!

Common Injuries in Mesa Dog Attacks

Common Injuries in Mesa Dog Attacks

Dog bites can be benign to extremely vicious. The cost of treatment can add up fast. If the bite is severe enough, there may be additional expenses such as long-term care. A dog bite victim may lose income or have a reduced earning capacity as a result of a dog owner’s negligence. It is imperative to retain an experienced Mesa dog bite attorney. A lawyer can deal with the insurance companies to make sure that you receive the fair value of the claim. The most common dog bite injuries that we see include:

  • Eye and face injuries
  • Puncture wounds
  • Bone fracture
  • Nerve Damage
  • Scarring and disfigurement
  • Head, neck and hand injuries
  • Soft tissue injuries, including muscle and tendon
  • Infections, including rabies, MRSA (Staph), tetanus, Pasteurella, and Capnocytophaga
  • Emotional distress, including anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and flashbacks
Damages and Compensation for Mesa Dog Bite Injuries

Damages and Compensation for Mesa Dog Bite Injuries

Damages that are caused by a dog bite land in one of two categories which are financial damages and non-economic damages.

Financial Damages In Mesa Dog Attack Cases

Financial damages for a dog bite injury include:

  • Medical Bills, both present and future
  • Loss of salary/income and the calculation of a diminished earning capacity
  • Expenses for travel to appointments
  • Physical therapy costs
  • Psychological therapy and counseling
  • Property loss
Pain and Suffering Damages In Mesa Dog Bite Cases

Non-economic or “pain and suffering” damages related to a dog bite injury include:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Scarring
  • Permanent Disfigurement
  • Emotional distress and Mental Anguish
  • Permanent disability
Maximum Compensation In Mesa Dog Bite Claims

Maximum Compensation In Mesa Dog Bite Claims

A dog bite’s claim value is dependent upon several factors. First, there must be a valid insurance policy in effect on the day of injury and the policy cannot include a clause denying animal bite coverage. If the policy is valid, then the victim can recover from it. The policy will cover the medical bills associated with the care of the victim and will cover pain and suffering. Most of the time a homeowner’s insurance policy will cover the claim.

Insurance companies are usually difficult to deal with. Their bottom line is improved by denying or minimizing claims. A Mesa dog bite lawyer understands the tricks and tactics used by insurance companies to avoid paying the true value of a dog bite claim. We will ensure that your claim does not suffer from unfair practices. At Dove Law Firm, we will identify all insurance companies that can contribute to your claim. We will file those claims and aggressively negotiate with the adjuster to protect your claim.

Affordable Dog Bite Lawyer In Mesa

Affordable Dog Bite Lawyer In Mesa

Expertly Proving Liability In Arizona Dog Attack Cases

As mentioned before, Arizona has strict liability laws regarding dog bites. However, the bite victim needs to show that the legal elements required to establish liability for a dog attack are met. The person bit must also prove that the injuries resulted from the dog attack. Dove Law Firm provides experienced attorneys to ensure that your rights and case value are protected. Our dog bite lawyers complete the due diligence necessary to maintain the full value of the claim. Some actions that our Mesa dog bite attorneys take when handling a dog bite claim include:

  • Locate medical treatment for your injuries that will provide care on a lien
  • Obtain the police and animal control reports
  • Identify the dog owner
  • Interview witnesses
  • Collect Evidence
  • Obtain records and billing information from your health care providers and treatment facilities
  • Identify all insurance companies that might be responsible for payment of damages
  • Organize the proof of financial losses
  • Determine and demand the maximum value of your claim
  • Prepare a demand package to present to the insurance company
  • Negotiate and fight for what is
  • Prepare and file a personal injury lawsuit if the parties refuse to negotiate a fair settlement

Frequently Asked Questions About Mesa Dog Bite Claims

The Mesa dog bite laws protect victims who are lawfully on private property or on public property and bit by a dog. It holds the dog’s owner strictly liable. There is no “one bite free” rule in Arizona so even if the dog does not have a history of aggression, you can still hold the owner liable to pay for the damages. This law does not protect those that are unlawfully on private property or who provoke the dog, however. Insurance may try to suggest that you provoked the dog so they don’t have to pay as much compensation, but having a skilled lawyer on your side will prevent this. As soon as the dog bite happens, the owners are legally required to exchange information with you. If they do not comply, they could face a class 2 misdemeanor. Talk to our lawyers about the circumstances of your case to ensure your rights are protected.
You will have one year from the date of the dog bite to file a claim or a lawsuit. However, our lawyers recommend that you file a claim as soon as you can. This ensures that evidence is fresh and preserved and the circumstances of the case are in everybody’s minds. The sooner you are able to involve our lawyers and start pursuing a claim, the better chances of success. Once you reach out to us, our lawyers will conduct an investigation where we will try to figure out what happened and gather evidence for the case. Our goal is to make sure you are given the maximum compensation so you can recover successfully. However, if you find yourself pursuing a claim later in the year, our lawyers are still helpful and you can still have a successful case! Whether the bite just happened or was just under a year ago, contact us!
No! Many people are concerned about pursuing a personal injury claim from a dog owner because the person is their friend or family member. However, dog bites are covered under insurance so if you file a claim to cover your medical bills, you will be paid from the owner’s insurance company, not their own pocket. If you choose to pursue a lawsuit and the owner does not have insurance, you could encounter a situation where the costs will come out of pocket, but this is not a common scenario. If you’re unsure about how to proceed and are concerned about filing a claim against someone you know, reach out to our lawyers and we can walk you through the steps and how it will impact the people and dog involved.
There are certain defenses that could bar you from a dog bite claim and knowing how to combat these defenses can be necessary for a successful outcome. It could be argued that you provoked the dog to bite you. In Arizona, even accidental provoking can bar you from compensation. This “reasonable provocation” defense involves determining whether a reasonable person would expect certain behavior to provoke the dog. You can also be barred from a claim if you were bit by a dog while trespassing on private property. However, if you are a postal worker, utility meter reader, or an invited social guest, you are lawfully present and protected. If insurance is fighting your claim, be sure to hire our lawyers and find out how we can win you the maximum amount of compensation!
Yes! In fact, if you are bitten by a dog in Mesa, you are the owner of the dog, or you were a witness to the bite, you are legally required to report the dog bite to Maricopa County Animal Care and Control. This reporting is required if you want to seek compensation for medical bills as the report serves as important evidence. It also initiates a mandatory 10 day health quarantine for the dog to ensure it does not have rabies or some other diseases. If you do contact Maricopa County Animal Care and Control, make sure you are ready to provide your location, date, and time of the incident as well as the dog owner’s name and contact information, description of the dog, and any other evidence you have.
The cost to hire a Mesa dog bite lawyer varies depending on the circumstances of your case. However, at Dove Law Firm, we work for a contingency fee. This means that you do not have to pay anything upfront. Instead, we will fight aggressively for the most compensation possible and will take a percentage of your winnings. Our lawyers believe in transparency, so during our consultation, ask us about our costs and fees. Will will let you know exactly what to expect in your specific case so you can move forward with confidence knowing that hiring us is going to be a fantastic choice. Don’t face your dog bite alone. Make sure you are not being drowned by medical bills, pain, and lost income. Contact us today to get started and to see how we can relieve some of the challenges after the incident.
Like most other personal injury accidents, you should always take photos and videos of the accident scene, injuries, and dog if possible. These visual records will serve as essential evidence in your case. Also ensure that you get the contact information from the owner. They are legally required to exchange personal information with you. Gather their insurance company name and policy number. Take stock of any witnesses and get their names and numbers. Preserve all of your medical records and bills related to the dog bite injury as well. With this evidence and anything else your lawyers find, you should have a strong case to claim much-needed compensation for your damages.
Yes you can. In Arizona, whether your dog was attacked, seriously injured, or killed, you can pursue a claim. This is especially true if the attacking dog was not leashed or constrained as they should be. Dogs are seen as property so when your dog is injured or killed due to another dog, you likely have a valid claim. The damages you can claim include veterinary bills, value of the dog, and other damages such as for your personal property and emotional distress. If you are facing the devastating loss of your dog at the hands of another dog, reach out to our lawyers right away to get started on a claim to get the compensation you deserve.
Contact Dove Law Firm Today

Contact Dove Law Firm Today

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    Phone
    (480) 213-4489

    Toll Free
    (877) 368-3529

    Fax
    (480) 383-6298

    Address
    2650 E Southern Ave Suite 201
    Mesa, AZ 85204