Littleton Dog Bite Attorneys

What Are Colorado’s Dog Bite Laws?

Colorado follows a strict liability standard for dog bite injuries. This means that the owner can be held liable for injuries, even if the dog owner was not aware that their dog would attack someone. Under this standard, the person injured by the dog does not have to prove negligence in dog bite injury cases.

When are Dog Owners Responsible?

According to the law, the animal’s owner may be held responsible if the dog:

• Bites someone on public property
• Bites a person, causing death
• Bites someone lawfully on the owner’s private property
• Causes serious bodily injury

When are Dog Owners not Responsible?

There are a few situations in which the owner would not be held responsible for injuries. This includes a dog attack that occurs when:

• The victim is trespassing
• The dog owner’s property is clearly marked with warning signs
• The dog was knowingly provoked
• The victim was working with the dog as a trainer, groomer, or veterinarian

In addition, the owner may not be held liable if the dog is working at the time of the bite, such as with a police officer or member of the military for official purposes or when hunting or herding on the dog owner’s property.

At Curtis | Walton Law, our Littleton dog bite lawyers represent clients who sustained injuries from an aggressive dog. We also are willing to travel to you. If you live in Englewood, Denver, Littleton, or elsewhere in Colorado, don't hesitate to contact us. Call (720) 815-4402 today!

How To Secure Compensation for Your Injuries

In order to obtain compensation, you must show liability and that you were seriously injured by the attack. In addition, our Littleton dog bite attorneys will help you determine whether the dog owner is insured.

In most situations, dog bite injuries are covered under the owner’s insurance policy, such as:

• A homeowner’s policy
• Renter’s insurance
• The property owner or landlord’s insurance company

The compensation in dog bite injuries depends on the extent of the injury, the medical treatment that was needed, and whether you missed time from work as a result of the injury.

We can evaluate your case and advise you about the compensation that may be possible in your situation, such as:

• Compensation for medical treatment
• Lost time at work
• Other damages

In addition to economic damages, you may be able to recover non-economic damages, such as:

• The pain caused by the injury and treatment
• Pain and suffering
• Mental suffering when in the presence of other dogs
• Disability
• Loss of quality of life

Because you will be seeking damages from the dog owner’s insurance company, you should be aware of how they work. Their primary goal is to get you to accept less than the full value of your claim, and they will immediately begin to investigate you to attempt to under value your claim. Our attorneys are well-versed in the tactics used by insurance companies and ready to fight on your behalf.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Dog Bites in Colorado?

Colorado has a two-year statute of limitations for dog bite claims. If you don’t file within two years, you may lose the opportunity to recover damages for your injury. We recommend contacting us as soon as possible, so we can help with the insurance company and ensure that your claim is filed well before the end of that two-year period.

Holding Irresponsible Dog Owners Accountable for Your Injuries

One of the questions you may have is just how serious does the bite need to be in order to file a lawsuit against the dog owner? What if the dog bit you but didn't draw blood? According to Colorado dog bite statutes, you may still pursue a negligence claim, even if your injuries are not considered "severe." On the other hand, a serious injury resulting from a dog bite or attack can include anything from puncture wounds and broken bones to permanent disfigurement or even a dog bite fatality.

Pet owners have a responsibility to properly socialize and restrain their pets to ensure the safety of others. When a dog attacks, the victim may file a personal injury lawsuit against the owners for the damages caused by the animal.

Give us a call today at (720) 815-4402 or contact our team online to discuss your injuries with a dog bite lawyer in Littleton, Englewood, or the surrounding area.