Arizona’s Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Claims
In Arizona, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including dog bites, is generally two years from the date of the injury. However, Arizona also allows victims to file under a strict liability statute for dog bites—but this specific type of claim must be filed within one year.
Missing these deadlines could mean losing your legal right to seek compensation—regardless of how strong your case might be.
One of the most important reasons not to delay is the loss of evidence. As time passes:
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Wounds may heal, making it harder to document the severity of the injury
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Witnesses may forget key details
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Surveillance footage may be deleted
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Medical records may be harder to retrieve
Filing your claim early helps preserve critical details that can support your case.
If you wait too long to initiate your claim, insurance companies may question the severity of your injury or suggest that it wasn’t serious enough to report right away.
Delays can lead to:
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Denied claims
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Reduced settlement offers
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Increased pressure to settle quickly without full consideration of long-term effects
If you’re unsure of your next step, it’s a good idea to speak with someone who can help. Visit the Folger Law Firm contact page to learn about your options after a dog bite.
Medical Documentation Is Time-Sensitive
Dog bites can lead to infections, nerve damage, and long-term scarring. Seeking immediate medical treatment creates a documented timeline that supports your claim. Waiting to get care may give the impression that the injury was minor—even if complications develop later.
Early medical attention also allows healthcare providers to:
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Record detailed descriptions of the wound
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Prescribe appropriate treatment
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Rule out diseases like rabies or tetanus
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Create clear documentation for your legal file
Emotional and Psychological Harm
In addition to physical injuries, many dog bite victims—especially children—experience emotional trauma such as anxiety, sleep disturbances, or fear of dogs. These psychological effects may take time to develop but should still be reported and treated as part of your overall injury.
The sooner you begin the process, the better you can document the full scope of how the bite has affected your life.
Whether you’re dealing with bite wounds, emotional distress, or financial strain from missed work and medical costs, waiting too long to act can compromise your claim. You don’t have to have every answer before reaching out for help.
At Folger Law Firm, we understand how complex dog bite claims can be. If you’re exploring next steps, our team is here to help you better understand your options. Reach out today to schedule a consultation.
Timing isn’t just important—it’s everything in a dog bite case. Acting quickly ensures better evidence, stronger documentation, and a clearer path to compensation for your injuries and losses.
If you or a loved one was bitten by a dog in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Glendale, Peoria, or Tempe, don’t wait to take the first step. Visit Folger Law Firm’s contact page to get the information you need to protect your rights.
