A Deeper Understanding of Colorado Springs Dog Bite Laws

When a dog bite happens, the aftermath is often overwhelming. Victims and their families face urgent medical concerns, mounting expenses, and complicated legal questions: Who is responsible for paying the bills? How do Colorado laws protect dog bite victims? What rights do you have if the attack occurred in Colorado Springs?

Dog bites are more common than many people realize, and the consequences can be serious, ranging from infection and scarring to long-term trauma. Colorado’s legal framework provides important protections, but understanding those protections is not always straightforward.

This article will give you a comprehensive overview of Colorado Springs dog bite laws, explain what happens during the legal process, address common questions, and provide practical guidance for protecting your rights. Whether you are a victim seeking answers or a concerned pet owner, this guide will help you understand the law’s role in resolving these cases.

The Basics of Colorado Dog Bite Law Explained

Unlike some states, Colorado applies a strict liability standard to certain dog bite cases. This means that if a dog bite results in serious bodily injury or death, the dog’s owner is legally responsible for damages, even if the dog had never bitten anyone before and showed no signs of aggression.

Serious bodily injury is a key term under Colorado law. It includes:

• Injuries with a substantial risk of death
• Permanent disfigurement, like visible scarring
• Long-term loss or impairment of a body function
• Severe physical pain or emotional trauma

In other words, victims do not need to prove negligence if the injuries are severe enough. The law recognizes that some attacks are so damaging that accountability must fall on the owner regardless of prior knowledge.

Negligence-Based Claims

For less severe injuries, like puncture wounds, bruises, or minor lacerations, victims can still pursue compensation through a negligence claim. This requires showing that the dog owner failed to act reasonably, like:

• Letting a dog roam without a leash is in violation of local ordinances
• Ignoring prior complaints about aggressive behavior
• Failing to secure a fence or enclosure

Negligence claims can still provide recovery for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, though proving fault may be more complex.

Important Exceptions to Liability

Colorado law outlines several exceptions that limit a dog owner’s responsibility. These include situations where the victim was:

• Trespassing on private property unlawfully
• Provoking the dog intentionally through abuse or taunting
• Performing professional duties involving animals, such as veterinarians or kennel workers
• Entering marked property with clear warnings like “No Trespassing” or “Beware of Dog” sign

Understanding these exceptions is critical because they can significantly change the outcome of a case.

Statute of Limitations

Dog bite victims in Colorado Springs generally have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline can prevent victims from recovering any compensation, no matter how strong their case might be.

The Legal Process After a Dog Bite: Step by Step

Step 1: Medical Treatment and Documentation

The first and most important step is to seek medical care immediately. Even small puncture wounds can lead to infections or nerve damage. Prompt treatment ensures your safety and creates medical records that are essential for your case.

Documentation matters:

• Take photographs of your injuries, clothing, and the location of the incident.
• Collect names and contact information from witnesses.
• Obtain the dog owner’s details and vaccination records if possible.

Step 2: Reporting the Bite

In Colorado Springs, bites should be reported to El Paso County Public Health or local animal control. Reporting protects the community and creates an official record that supports your claim.

Step 3: Insurance and Liability Investigation

Most dog bite claims involve a homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. Adjusters will likely investigate the incident, review medical records, and attempt to contact the victim. It’s important to be cautious, insurers often seek to minimize payouts by questioning the severity of injuries or suggesting provocation.

Step 4: Calculating Damages: 

Recoverable damages may include:

• Medical expenses: emergency treatment, surgery, physical therapy
• Lost wages: income lost due to recovery time
• Pain and suffering: both physical pain and emotional trauma
• Permanent impairment or disfigurement: lasting scars or disabilities
• Future care costs: ongoing medical needs or counseling

Step 5: Filing a Claim or Lawsuit

Victims can pursue recovery through an insurance settlement or by filing a lawsuit. Many cases resolve through negotiation, but if insurers deny liability or undervalue the claim, litigation may be necessary.

Step 6: Settlement or Trial

• Settlement: Most cases are resolved without trial, through a negotiated agreement.
• Trial: If no agreement is reached, the case may go to court, where a judge or jury determines liability and damages.

How Genco Injury Attorneys Can Help 

At Genco Injury Attorneys, we have represented many victims of dog bites throughout Colorado Springs. We understand how disruptive and stressful these incidents can be, which is why our team is committed to guiding clients through the legal process with compassion, clarity, and determination.

When you choose our Colorado Springs dog bite injury attorneys, you can expect personalized attention, responsive communication, and a focused approach to protecting your rights. We carefully evaluate your case, deal directly with insurance companies, and work tirelessly to pursue maximum compensation for medical care, lost wages, and long-term effects. Our goal is not only to secure the best possible outcome, but also to ease the burden of navigating complex legal procedures during a difficult time.

If you or someone you love has suffered a dog bite injury, don’t wait to get the help you need. Call 719-826-6217 today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Colorado Springs dog bite injury attorney.