Dog Bites

Dog Bite Attorney in Denver

Many people are surprised to learn that dog bites are among the most common claims filed against a homeowner’s liability insurance policy.  

The Insurance Information Institute reports the number of dog bite claims continues to rise. About 86 million dogs live in U.S. households and about 4.5 million people are bitten each year, most of them children.  

That is a staggering 12,000 dog bites per day!  

Homeowners insurance companies are paying about $1 billion a year in dog-bite claims, or about $50,000 per claim on average. Some have responded by refusing to insure certain dogs, or by asking dog owners to sign liability waivers.  

Often, the dog of a family member or friend is responsible for a bite injury. For all of these reasons, these can be complex claims. However, scaring, the risk of infection or other complications, and emotional issues, particularly in children, make it  important to discuss your concerns with an experienced dog bite lawyer in Denver. These claims will typically proceed against a homeowner’s insurance policy and can be done amicably when friends or family members are involved.  

Dog Bite Injury Law in Colorado  

Dog-bite claims fall under premises liability law. Colorado dog bite law is found under CRS 13-21-124 and governs Colorado as a strict liability state. The law holds dog owners strictly liable when their dog bites a person who is lawfully on public or private property. Unlike some states, which require dogs to have shown a history of aggression, Colorado law holds dog owners responsible even if their dog has never bitten anyone or shown a propensity for violence in the past.  

Leash laws also impose obligations on dog owners in public places. Determining a dog owner’s liability is a complex process best done by an experienced dog bite lawyer in Denver.  

Under the law, dog bite victims are entitled to economic damages such as the cost of medical bills, counseling and lost wages. The law does not provide for non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, although such damages can still be pursued through a negligence action in consultation with your Denver dog bite attorney.  

Dog bites disproportionately scar and injure young children, most often those between the ages of 3 and 4. Special care must be taken when working with young victims to ensure they receive proper counseling and other mental health services necessary to making a complete recovery. Growth and development can also make dealing with scaring a complex issue. In most of these cases,  a child was victimized by the dog of a neighbor, friend or family member, which can further complicate issues when it comes to seeking a recovery.  

Ken Fiedler Injury Law provides passionate, principled and proven representation to victims and families looking for an experienced personal injury lawyer in Denver or the surrounding areas, including Highlands Ranch, Littleton, Ken Caryl, Columbine, Golden, Lakewood, Broomfield, and Arvada.