Dog Bite Attorney in Colorado Serving the Denver Metro and Surrounding Areas

Dog Bite Injury Claims in Colorado: Your Rights and Legal Options

Colorado Dog Bite Laws: Understanding Your Legal Rights

Dog attacks can cause severe physical and emotional trauma. Colorado has strict liability laws that hold dog owners responsible for injuries caused by their pets, even if the dog has no prior history of aggression. If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite injury, knowing your legal rights is crucial in seeking fair compensation.

Colorado’s Strict Liability Law for Dog Bites

Under C.R.S. § 13-21-124, Colorado applies a “strict liability” standard in many dog bite cases. This means that a dog’s owner can be held legally responsible if:

• The dog bites someone who is lawfully on public or private property, and
• The victim suffers serious bodily injury or death as a result of the bite.

Importantly, the law does not require that the dog have a history of aggressive behavior, nor must the owner be negligent. If the legal conditions are met, the owner may be liable regardless of intent or prior knowledge.

However, the statute also provides several exceptions where the owner may not be held liable, including:

• The injured person was trespassing at the time of the incident;
• The attack occurred on property with clear and visible signage warning about the presence of a dog;
• The dog was used by police or military personnel during official duties;
• The victim provoked the animal;
• The injured party was a professional working with dogs (e.g., a veterinarian, groomer, trainer, or show judge) and was performing their duties at the time;
• The dog was performing a working function, such as herding, hunting, or guarding livestock on rural property.

These exemptions help balance the interests of public safety with the legitimate use and working role of dogs in certain contexts. To prove negligence; they only need to establish that they were bitten and that the circumstances meet the law’s criteria.

Common Injuries Resulting from Dog Bites

Dog bites can lead to severe medical complications, including:

• Deep Lacerations and Puncture Wounds – Can require stitches or surgery and may lead to permanent scarring.
• Infections and Diseases – Including rabies, cellulitis, and other bacterial infections.
• Nerve Damage – Severe bites can result in long-term or permanent nerve damage.
• Scarring and Disfigurement – Some victims require reconstructive surgery to repair tissue damage.
• Psychological Trauma – Many victims suffer from PTSD, anxiety, and a long-term fear of dogs after an attack.

What Compensation Can You Recover for a Dog Bite Injury?

If you have been bitten by a dog in Colorado, you may be entitled to compensation, including:

• Medical Expenses – Covers emergency care, surgery, infection treatment, and rehabilitation.
• Lost Wages – Compensation for time missed from work due to injury recovery.
• Pain and Suffering – Physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the attack.
• Disfigurement and Scarring – Additional damages for long-term cosmetic injuries.
• Psychological Treatment – Therapy for PTSD, anxiety, or emotional trauma following the attack.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite Incident

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately – Even minor bites can lead to serious infections.
2. Identify the Dog and Its Owner – Obtain contact details and vaccination history if possible.
3. Report the Attack – File a report with local animal control or law enforcement.
4. Document Your Injuries – Take photos of the bite wounds, medical treatments, and any torn clothing.
5. Obtain Witness Statements – If there were any bystanders, their statements could help support your claim.
6. Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies Alone – Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim.
7. Consult a Dog Bite Attorney – An experienced attorney like Aaron Israels can help navigate Colorado’s dog bite laws and ensure you receive full compensation.

Why You Need a Dog Bite Lawyer

Dog bite cases can be more complex than they seem, especially when dealing with insurance companies or disputes over liability. An experienced personal injury attorney can:

• Investigate the incident and gather medical and witness evidence.
• Negotiate with insurance companies to maximize your compensation.
• Take your case to court if necessary to secure a fair outcome.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog bite in Colorado, you don’t have to face the legal process alone. Aaron Israels is a lawyer committed to protecting the rights of dog bite victims and securing the compensation they deserve.

We always offer Free Consultations. If we take your case, we do so on a contingency fee basis—which means there are no attorney fees unless we recover money for you!

Call us at 720-599-3505 for a free consultation and let us help you pursue justice.

Visit us online at www.AaronUnderstands.com