Dog Bite Injuries
Understanding Dog Bite Injuries in Colorado
Experiencing a dog attack can be both physically and emotionally devastating. Colorado’s strict liability laws mean that dog owners are responsible for injuries caused by their pets. At Lomena Law is here to help you navigate your legal rights and seek fair compensation.
Why Choose Lomena Law?
At Lomena Law, we specialize in representing victims of dog bites. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your case and understand your rights after suffering a severe dog bite injury.
Colorado Dog Bite Laws: Strict Liability
In Colorado, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets, regardless of the dog’s past behavior. This means if you were legally on public or private property and suffered serious bodily injury from a dog bite, the owner is responsible for covering your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Exceptions to Liability
- Trespassing: Dog owners are generally not liable if the bite occurred while you were trespassing, with some exceptions for children under 6.
- Provocation: If you provoked the dog, such as by throwing objects at it, the owner might not be liable. However, the burden of proof lies with the owner.
Dog Owner’s Responsibilities
Dog owners in Colorado must adhere to leash laws and other regulations. Failure to do so can lead to liability for any resulting injuries.
Determining Liability
Liability for a dog bite often falls on the dog owner, but other parties may also be responsible in certain circumstances. For example, if the dog was under the care of a vet, boarding facility, or dog walker, these parties might share liability. Additionally, landlords could be held accountable if they knew about the dangerous dog on their property.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bites can result in various injuries, from minor cuts to severe disfigurement and nerve damage. According to the CDC, many dog bites require immediate medical attention and can lead to permanent scarring or reconstructive surgery.
Compensation for Dog Bite Victims
The compensation you can recover depends on the severity of your injury. Typical damages include:
- Medical expenses (immediate and future)
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Permanent impairment
Understanding Dangerous Dog Breeds
Certain breeds, such as Pitbulls and Rottweilers, are classified as dangerous under Colorado law. If you are bitten by one of these dogs, you may be eligible for additional compensation due to the increased risk associated with these breeds.
Contact Lomena Law
At Lomena Law, we are dedicated to providing personalized and effective legal representation for dog bite victims. Lomena Law is committed to securing the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today to learn more about your rights and how we can help you recover the compensation you deserve.