Dog bites can cause more than just pain—they can leave lasting physical, emotional, and financial scars. In Kingman and across Mohave County, Arizona law allows victims of dog attacks to pursue compensation when a negligent owner is at fault. If a dog bit or injured you, the actions you take now will affect your ability to recover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Big Chad Law's Kingman dog bite lawyer holds irresponsible dog owners accountable. Whether the attack happened while you were walking, working, or visiting someone’s home, we understand how to build a case under Arizona’s strict liability laws.
What Are Arizona's Dog Bite Laws?
Arizona uses a strict liability rule. This makes dog owners automatically liable for bites, even if the dog had no history of aggression. Victims don’t need to prove that the dog was dangerous—only that the bite occurred in a public space or when the victim had permission to be on private property.
Key elements of Arizona’s dog bite law:
- No "one bite" rule: The first bite still creates liability.
- Applies to incidents on public property or lawful private visits.
- No requirement to prove owner negligence.
What Should You Do After a Dog Bite in Kingman?
To protect both your health and legal rights, take these steps immediately:
- Get medical care, even for wounds that appear minor.
- Report the bite to Kingman Animal Control or police.
- Photograph your injuries, the dog, and the location.
- Collect contact and vaccination details from the dog’s owner.
- Refrain from speaking with the dog owner’s insurance adjuster.
The more evidence you preserve early, the stronger your claim becomes.
Common Injuries from Dog Attacks
Dog bites can lead to painful injuries that require extended treatment. Some of the most common include:
- Deep puncture wounds or torn skin
- Nerve and muscle damage
- Bacterial infections or rabies risk
- Facial injuries or permanent scarring
- PTSD or fear-related emotional trauma
Children are especially at risk, often suffering wounds to the face, arms, or neck. Adults may lose income and experience long-term pain.
Dog Bite Claims That Involve Children
In Kingman, children frequently suffer the most serious injuries in dog attacks. Arizona offers extended legal protections for young victims. Parents can file claims for medical bills, trauma, and therapy costs. In some cases, courts may also allow future claims to be filed after the child turns 18.
If your child has been attacked by a dog, our team will help you document both the physical injuries and emotional impact. We aim to ensure your family receives full compensation for the short- and long-term effects.
Who Is Legally Responsible for a Dog Bite?
The dog owner is the primary party liable, but others may also share responsibility:
- Owners or temporary caretakers
- Landlords in multi-unit housing
- Dog walkers or handlers
- Property owners or managers
We review leash law violations, property rules, and prior complaints to identify who played a role in the attack. In Kingman, leash laws apply in public areas and many private properties.
What Types of Damages Can You Claim?
Under Arizona law, dog bite victims may recover both economic and non-economic damages. Here are the most common types:
| Damage Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Medical Expenses | ER visits, plastic surgery, medication, rehab |
| Lost Wages | Missed work, reduced earning capacity |
| Pain and Suffering | Physical pain, emotional trauma |
| Disfigurement | Scars or permanent facial injuries |
| Property Damage | Damaged clothes, glasses, phones, etc. |
Each case is unique, and we work to capture the full scope of how the bite has affected your life.
Navigating Insurance Claims for Dog Bites
In many cases, the dog owner's homeowners or renters insurance covers injuries. These policies typically pay for:
- Medical bills
- Liability damages up to a certain limit
However, insurers often dispute these claims. They may allege provocation, deny the severity of injuries, or try to shift blame. At Big Chad Law, we challenge those tactics with evidence and expert support.
Our Process for Dog Bite Cases in Kingman
We take a thorough, investigative approach tailored to Kingman’s local laws and property standards. Our team:
- Gathers police and animal control reports
- Verifies leash or fencing violations
- Interviews witnesses and medical professionals
- Reviews community and rental property rules
By organizing a strong file, we build a persuasive claim designed for full settlement or litigation if needed.
What’s the Deadline to File a Dog Bite Lawsuit in Arizona?
There are two deadlines that may apply:
- One year: If you file under Arizona’s strict liability law.
- Two years: If you claim general negligence by the dog owner.
To preserve your rights, it's best to start your case early. That way, critical evidence remains available.
Will You Need to Go to Court?
Most cases resolve through insurance settlements. However, if insurers offer an unfair amount or deny responsibility, we are ready to escalate. We prepare every case as if it will go to trial, which often leads to better settlement offers.
Let Big Chad Law Represent You
You deserve peace of mind after a traumatic event. Our Kingman dog bite lawyer has the experience to guide you through Arizona’s legal process and secure the compensation you deserve.
Let’s discuss your case—there’s no obligation. Call Big Chad Law or fill out our online form for a free consultation.
FAQ's
What if I was bitten by a friend or relative’s dog?
You can still file a claim. These cases are usually covered by homeowners insurance and don’t need to become personal or confrontational.
Can I get compensation if the dog didn’t bite but knocked me down?
Yes. Arizona law also allows injury claims when a dog causes harm by jumping, charging, or lunging, even without biting.
What if the dog wasn’t on a leash?
That may support your case. Leash law violations are evidence of negligence and help prove the owner failed to control the animal.
Can I sue if I was bitten on private property?
Yes, as long as you were lawfully present. Arizona law still applies whether the attack occurred at a friend’s home or while working.
How much is a dog bite case worth in Kingman?
It varies. Settlements range widely based on medical costs, emotional distress, lost wages, and the extent of permanent injury.