What To Do After A Dog Attack
Dog bites can result in serious physical and emotional trauma, leaving victims overwhelmed and unsure of their next steps. In Colorado Springs, where dog ownership is common, incidents of dog attacks are unfortunately not rare. There are approximately 4.5 million dog bites cases reported each year in the United States. Many of these cases can lead to serious injuries or infection that require extensive medical treatment. It is a dog owner’s responsibility to make sure that their animal is contained and kept in a manner that individuals are protected from harm. When they neglect to keep proper control of their animal, they must be held responsible for their actions.
If you or a loved one has been bitten or suffered other injuries in a dog attack, you have the right to seek compensation for your damages. At the Law Offices of Rodemer | Kane we want to do all we can to help you through this difficult time, and we have the knowledge and experience with dog bite claims to get you the compensation you need. Contact our Colorado Springs law office online or call 719-635-7886 to book a free case consultation.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog attacks can cause a variety of injuries, ranging from minor to severe. Each day in the United States, nearly 1,000 people must seek emergency room treatment for nonfatal dog bite-related injuries. Some of the most common dog bite injuries include:
- Puncture Wounds and Lacerations – Deep bites can tear through skin, muscle, and tissue, often requiring stitches or in serous cases surgery.
- Infections – Dog saliva can carry harmful bacteria like Pasteurella sp, Staphylococcus, or even rabies, which can all lead to severe infections if untreated.
- Broken Bones – Larger dogs have jaws that can exert tremendous force in an attack, sometimes resulting in fractures, especially in children or the elderly.
- Scarring and Disfigurement – Depending on how the dog attacks, it can cause facial bites or severe wounds which can leave permanent scars. Scarring can cause both long-term physical and emotional distress.
- Nerve Damage – When dog bites are deep, they may cause damage to nerves. Nerve damage can cause loss of sensation or mobility in the affected area. Sometimes this damage can be reversed with physical therapy, while other times it is permanent.
- Emotional Trauma – Victims of dog attacks often suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or a lasting fear of dogs. This can take a toll on individuals.
Steps to Take After a Dog Attack
If you are bitten by a dog in Colorado Springs, taking immediate action is vital for both your health and your legal case. Follow these steps:
- Seek Medical Attention – Even if the bite seems minor, consult a healthcare provider to address the risk of infection and document your injuries.
- Identify the Dog and Its Owner – Collect contact information from the dog’s owner and ensure you know the dog’s vaccination history, particularly for rabies.
- Report the Incident – Notify Colorado Springs Animal Control or local law enforcement. This ensures the attack is documented and helps protect others from potential danger.
- Document Evidence – Take photos of your injuries, the location of the attack, and the dog involved. If there were witnesses, gather their contact information.
- Avoid Communication with the Dog Owner’s Insurance Company – Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim. Refer all communication to your attorney.
- Consult a Dog Bite Lawyer Near You – A legal professional experienced in Colorado Springs dog bite cases can guide you through the process, ensuring you understand your rights and options.
Why You Need a Dog Bite Lawyer in Colorado Springs
Navigating the legal system after a dog bite can be challenging, especially when dealing with medical bills, insurance companies, and the physical and emotional recovery process. A dog bite lawyer provides critical support. They will investigate the circumstances of the attack thoroughly, making sure all parties involved are held responsible, and collecting any necessary evidence to build a strong case. Dog bite lawyers also have experience negotiating with insurance companies and will fight to get you fair compensation. If a settlement cannot be reached, then they will expertly represent you in court to make sure you get the compensation you deserve.
Colorado follows strict liability laws, this means that dog owners are to be held responsible for injuries caused by their pets. However, proving liability can still be difficult, especially if the owner claims that the individual provoked the dog or was trespassing as a defense. An experienced attorney will anticipate these challenges and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Compensation for Dog Bite Victims
Victims of dog bites in Colorado Springs may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses
- Lost Wages
- Pain and Suffering
- Property Damage
- Punitive Damages
Contact A Dog Bite Attorney In Colorado
Dog bites can have life-altering consequences, but with the right legal support, you can recover physically, emotionally, and financially. If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Colorado Springs, don’t hesitate to seek medical help and consult with a trusted dog bite lawyer. Acting quickly can help you secure the justice and compensation you need to move forward. If you live in or near Colorado Springs, CO, we invite you to reach out to the team here at the Law Offices of Rodemer | Kane. With a deep understanding of Colorado personal injury laws and a proven track record of success, we handle each case with the dedication it deserves. Our team takes the time to listen to your story, gather evidence, and build a strong case to hold negligent parties accountable. Contact us online or call us at 719-635-7886 to set up a free consultation.