⏰ 1. Timing Is Everything

Arizona’s dog bite law gives victims only 1 year to bring a strict liability claim. That clock starts the day of the bite.


  • ✅ Confirm the date of the incident



  • ✅ Create a brief timeline or diary of what happened


If more than a year has passed, you may still have a negligence claim (2 years), but it’s harder to prove.

📸 2. Document the Injuries

You can’t rely on memory. Insurers and defense lawyers want proof — and photos and records go a long way.


  • ✅ Photos of the wound (day of, healing process, current)



  • ✅ Photos of any scarring (close-up and wide)



  • ✅ Medical records (hospital, urgent care, follow-ups)



  • ✅ Medical bills (itemized if possible)


🤝 3. Prove You Were Lawfully There

Arizona dog bite law applies if you were lawfully on the property when the bite happened. Babysitters, delivery drivers, and guests are all covered — but you need to prove it.


  • ✅ Screenshot or copy of babysitting job confirmation



  • ✅ Text messages or emails confirming you were invited



  • ✅ Any agency or platform profile/contract


🐾 4. Get the Dog & Owner’s Info

You’ll want to lock down who owns the dog and what kind of animal it was. This helps your attorney and may uncover other past incidents.


  • ✅ Dog owner’s name and address



  • ✅ Dog’s name, breed, and vaccination status



  • ✅ Homeowner’s or renter’s insurance info



  • ✅ Any history of the dog biting or being aggressive before



  • ✅ Note if there were “Beware of Dog” signs


📞 5. Request Official Reports

Even if it was a “private” incident, official reports can add serious credibility to your claim.


  • ✅ Animal Control report (if filed)



  • ✅ Police report (if applicable)



  • ✅ Results of any quarantine or investigation


🧠 6. Don’t Forget Emotional Harm

Especially for children and teens, dog bites can lead to lasting emotional trauma.


  • ✅ Write down any emotional effects (fear, anxiety, nightmares)



  • ✅ Save therapy or counseling records if any



  • ✅ Note any change in behavior — especially fear of dogs


💼 7. Save All Legal & Insurance Correspondence

Once a claim starts, you’ll want to track everything — especially what the insurance company says or does.


  • ✅ Save emails and letters from adjusters



  • ✅ Keep a list of any phone calls



  • ✅ If you’ve sent a demand letter, keep a copy


👩‍⚖️ Final Tip: Talk to an Arizona Personal Injury FirmEarly

Dog bite cases may seem simple, but there’s a lot that can go wrong. An experienced Arizona injury lawyer can:

 


  • Help you meet all deadlines



  • Protect your rights



  • Maximize your compensation