What Happens If a Dog Bite Caused Me to Fall and Break a Bone?

In Arizona, if a dog bite leads to a fall resulting in a broken bone, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries. The state’s strict liability laws hold dog owners accountable for damages their pets cause, regardless of the animal’s previous behavior.

Arizona Law and Your Rights

Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 11-1025, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries their dogs inflict, even if the dog has never shown aggression before. This means that if a dog bites you, causing you to fall and sustain injuries like broken bones, the owner is responsible for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Recent Case in Arizona

In the case of Stensrud v. Friedberg, the plaintiff was bitten by a dog and pursued claims of negligence and strict liability against the dog’s owners. The court denied the defendants’ motion for summary judgment, emphasizing that Arizona law imposes strict liability on dog owners for bite injuries, regardless of the dog’s prior behavior. This case underscores the state’s commitment to protecting individuals from dog-related injuries. [Source: Stensrud v. Friedberg (2023)]

Statute of Limitations

It’s crucial to act promptly if you’ve been injured by a dog bite. Arizona law imposes a statute of limitations on personal injury claims, typically allowing two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. Delaying beyond this period may forfeit your right to seek compensation.

What To Do Next

If you’ve suffered a fall and broken a bone due to a dog bite, seek medical attention immediately. Document your injuries and the circumstances of the incident. Then, consult with experienced personal injury attorneys to discuss your case. At Hirsch Talcott, our team, including attorney Jack Hirsch, a Certified Specialist in Personal Injury and Wrongful Death, and attorney Chelsie Talcott, a former Maricopa County Deputy Public Defender, is dedicated to advocating for injured Arizonans. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no fees unless we win your case. Learn more about why injured Arizonans choose us and our fee structure.

Don’t let a dog owner’s negligence disrupt your life. Contact Hirsch Talcott at 602-903-6000 for a free consultation and let us help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Where to get help

If this situation applies to you, Hirsch Talcott offers a free consultation — speak with a Phoenix dog bite lawyer to understand your options.