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Did you or a loved one sustain injuries from a dog attack? A Colorado Springs dog bite lawyer from McCormick & Murphy P.C. is ready to help. Our firm has secured the rights of dog bite victims throughout Colorado for decades. We can review your case in a free consultation and clarify your legal options.
In our culture, dogs are known as “man’s best friend,” but they can be dangerous animals. Nearly 4.5 million people in the United States are bitten by dogs every year, with approximately half being children. Nearly 20% of dog bites result in injuries serious enough to require medical attention.
Our experienced Colorado Springs dog bite attorneys understand both Colorado’s strict liability laws and negligence standards that apply to different dog bite scenarios. We can help determine if your case falls under Colorado’s “one bite rule” or if statutory strict liability applies based on the severity of your injuries.
After a serious dog bite or attack:
Dogs can attack violently and cause serious injuries, especially to children. The most common dog attack injuries include:
Many individuals put their hands out or attempt to cover their face when a dog attacks, resulting in defensive wounds.
Dog teeth are powerful and can cause deep puncture wounds that may damage underlying tissues.
When a dog pulls at skin, it can tear easily and result in permanent scarring, often requiring plastic surgery.
Fierce bites can reach delicate tissues and nerves beneath the skin, potentially causing permanent impairment.
Dog attacks are terrifying experiences that frequently result in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and cynophobia (fear of dogs).
Dog mouths contain bacteria that can cause serious infections, including Pasteurella, MRSA, tetanus, and in rare cases, rabies.
Powerful dog jaws can fracture bones, particularly in children or elderly victims.
Children and older adults can sustain fatal wounds in dog attacks.
A dog bite or dog attack can be a serious accident that requires costly medical care to remedy. In 2012, nearly 30,000 people were forced to have reconstructive surgery as a result of being bit by a dog. A dog bite can become infected, and dogs are known to carry serious diseases such as rabies.
You should never attempt to treat a dog bite on your own. If you suffered an injury in a dog bite or dog attack, seek medical assistance immediately.
Only a doctor can tell you how to properly treat your wounds. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may need to go to a hospital or emergency room.
There is no foolproof way to prevent a dog bite from occurring. However, there are steps you can take to reduce your chances of being bitten or attacked by a dog.
Our Colorado Springs dog bite attorneys will explain.
Like most people, dogs need plenty of space. You should never approach a dog who is eating or drinking, caring for puppies, sleeping, or chewing on a toy.
Even if you are familiar with an animal, you should allow him or her to see and sniff you before making contact. You should never approach an unfamiliar animal unless it is absolutely necessary to do so.
Whenever you are around an animal, it is important to stay calm. A dog may perceive loud voices or animated movements as threats and react accordingly.
If you are worried that a dog may bite or attack you, do not run away. You should remain as still as possible until the animal loses interest in you.
There are many behaviors that a dog may exhibit if he or she is agitated, which means there is a higher likelihood of a dog bite occurring.
If a dog is yawning, licking, or has a stiff tail, he or she may be upset or anxious. If you see any of these signs in a dog, do not approach or touch him or her. Other signs of agitation in a dog include rolled-back eyes, pacing, raised fur, and a rigid body posture.
Owners of dogs have numerous obligations. Not only do they have to care for their pet, but they also need to guarantee the canine won’t hurt anybody.
When dog owners neglect to appropriately socialize their pets or limit them when necessary, they expose themselves to personal injury claims.
Here are some of the responsibilities of every dog owner:
[Related Article: When Do You Need to File a Colorado Dog Bite Injury Claim?]
Dog bite victims may be entitled to compensation for:
It’s important to hire an experienced dog bite lawyer to fully protect your legal rights and seek fair compensation for your injuries. When you contact an insurance company yourself, you’re dealing with a sophisticated organization that doesn’t have your best interests at heart.
An experienced attorney will:
McCormick & Murphy has been handling serious dog bite injury cases in Colorado for over 30 years. We have the knowledge and experience to help you seek maximum compensation for your injuries.
You may be eligible for compensation after a dog attack. Don’t attempt to handle the lawsuit alone or deal with insurance companies without legal representation.
Contact our caring, skilled Colorado Springs dog bite lawyers at McCormick & Murphy P.C. anytime, 24/7 for a free consultation at 719-389-0400 or through our online contact form.
Yes, in Colorado, if your dog bites someone, you can be sued for damages resulting from the bite. Many factors can impact the claim against you, including the breed of dog you own, the severity of the injuries inflicted, and whether the dog had bitten or had been aggressive in the past. Colorado follows a strict liability rule regarding dog bites, meaning that as the dog owner, you are responsible for any injuries caused by your dog biting someone, regardless of whether or not you were negligent. It’s crucial to seek legal advice from Colorado dog bite attorneys if you’re facing such a situation to understand your rights and potential liabilities.
Yes, a landlord can potentially be liable if their dog attacks you on their property in Colorado. Landlords must ensure that their premises are safe for tenants and visitors. If the landlord knew or should have known about the dog’s dangerous tendencies and failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the attack, they could be held responsible for your injuries. Consulting with a Colorado dog bite injury lawyer can help determine the best action.
Yes, if another dog attacks your dog in Colorado, you can file a lawsuit against the owner of the aggressive dog for damages. This could include veterinary bills, compensation for your dog’s injuries, and other related expenses. It’s advisable to consult with experienced animal lawyers or personal injury lawyers in Colorado Springs to guide you through the legal process and ensure your rights are protected.
While you can technically file a personal injury claim without a lawyer, seeking legal representation is highly recommended, especially in cases involving serious dog bites and injuries. An experienced dog bite lawyer can navigate the complexities of the legal system,
gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for your rights to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries. Many personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee, meaning you only pay if they win your case.
Yes, you can claim a dog bite injury regardless of whether the dog belongs to a friend or family member. Dog bite laws in Colorado apply regardless of the relationship between the victim and the dog owner. Many factors can impact the claim against you, including the breed of the dog you own, the severity of the injuries inflicted, and whether the dog had bitten or had been aggressive in the past. It’s essential to prioritize your health and seek legal representation from reputable Colorado dog bite attorneys to navigate such cases’ complexities and protect your rights.
Yes, you can sue the owner for medical expenses after a dog bite in Colorado. Dog owners are responsible for covering the medical costs resulting from their bite injuries as long as they can prove their case against the dog owner. Documenting all medical expenses and consulting with skilled personal injury lawyers or dog bite attorneys in Colorado Springs to pursue fair compensation for your damages.
Yes, you can sue for pain and suffering resulting from a dog bite in Colorado. In addition to medical expenses and lost wages, victims of dog bites may also be entitled to compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and psychological trauma. If the bite wound leaves scarring, then this is also an element of damage that can be recovered, also known as “disfigurement.” Consulting with knowledgeable dog bite attorneys can help you assess the value of your pain and suffering damages and pursue appropriate compensation in your claim.
Yes, Colorado has specific dog bite laws governing owner liability. Colorado’s statutes relating to dog bites include a strict liability rule, holding dog owners responsible for injuries caused by their dogs biting someone, regardless of the dog’s past behavior or the owner’s knowledge of its aggressive tendencies. Understanding these laws is crucial if you’re involved in a dog bite incident, and consulting with experienced Colorado dog bite lawyers can help protect your rights.
In Colorado, the statute of limitations for filing a dog bite claim is generally two years from the date of the injury. However, consulting with a knowledgeable dog bite attorney in Colorado Springs as soon as possible after the incident is essential to ensure all deadlines are met, and evidence is preserved for your case.
The time it takes to receive compensation after a dog bite can vary depending on the case’s complexity, the extent of your injuries, and whether liability is disputed. Sometimes, settlements can be reached relatively quickly through negotiation with insurance companies. However, if the case goes to trial, it will certainly take much longer to receive compensation. Working with experienced dog bite lawyers can help expedite the process and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
The compensation you may receive for a dog bite claim in Colorado Springs, CO, depends on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life and livelihood, and the level of negligence or liability on the dog owner’s part. Damages may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, disfigurement, and other related costs. Consulting with trusted dog bite attorneys can help you assess the potential value of your claim and pursue fair compensation.
Many dog bite attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case. Their fee is typically a percentage of your compensation, agreed upon in advance. This arrangement allows victims of dog bites to access legal representation without upfront costs or financial risk. Discussing fees and payment structures with potential attorneys during your initial consultation is essential.
While hiring a dog bite lawyer for your case is not legally required, it’s highly advisable, especially if you seek fair compensation for your injuries. Dog bite cases can be complex, involving liability issues, insurance negotiations, and legal proceedings. If you have suffered serious injuries from a dog bite, an experienced dog bite attorney can navigate these complexities, advocate for your rights, and help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Dog bites can occur anywhere, but they occur most often in residential areas. They occur when dogs escape fenced in yards or leave the house either with or without the owner when they are unrestrained by a leash. They occur when visitors, whether friends or individuals who might be delivering a package, enter the property of a homeowner without knowing that there is a dog in the yard, or that the dog that is in the yard may pose a threat.
Dog bites occur regularly, but less commonly, outside their owner’s property. They can occur when a dog is being walked by the owner; when it is running loose after having escaped its owner’s property or leash; in parks; and virtually anywhere a dog might be found.
Be cautious. Never assume that a dog is friendly, regardless of whether the owner is present or not, or whether the dog appears to be friendly (wagging its tail, etc.). Unless an owner is present and gives consent, never reach to pet a strange dog. Never put your face near the dog’s face. The safest way to avoid dog bites is to keep your distance and to not offer to pet any strange dog.
Unfortunately, many times dog bites cannot be avoided. They can come quickly and unexpectedly. Often there is not enough time to react. It is a common reflexive reaction to put your arms or hands up to guard against the dog biting your face or body. This leaves many dog attack victims with bites on their hands and arms.
When dogs bite and attack, they often leave their victims with very serious injuries. puncture wounds, cuts, gashes and bruising. Injuries resulting from dog bites can be devastating. If the wounds are serious, you should not hesitate to call for emergency medical services. You or someone with you should call the police. Always address your wounds and your medical condition as the utmost priority.
While at the scene, if your medical condition allows, try and determine the identity of the owner of the dog. Write down the names, phone numbers and addresses of any witness to the attack. Cooperate with the police when they arrive in terms of providing your statement and any information that you have regarding the attack.
In the event of a serious dog attack, the police will typically alert the local Animal Control agency. In Colorado Springs, Animal Law Enforcement, which is affiliated with the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region, investigates serious dog bites. Their phone number is (719) 685-2543. In Pueblo, The Animal Control number is 719-302-8798. It is important to cooperate with their investigation. They will investigate whether the dog that bit you has a history of biting or attacking other people, whether it has had its rabies and other shots, and whether any city, county or state ordinances or statutes have been violated.
Identifying the owner of the dog is a critical step in determining whether you will be able to recover compensation for your injuries resulting from the dog bite or attack. Once the owner of the dog is identified, an experienced dog bite lawyer will investigate whether the dog owner owns the home where the dog was kept. If it was, then your dog attack lawyer will notify the dog owners insurance company of the attack and your injuries and pursue your claim with the homeowner’s insurance company.
If the dog owner was a renter, and owned a renters insurance policy, then the attorney handling your dog bite claim will investigate to find out who the insurance company of the renter is and will then pursue your claim for injuries with the renter’s insurance company.
It’s important to hire an experienced dog bite lawyer to fully protect your legal rights, and to seek full and fair compensation for your injuries. It’s important to realize that when you contact an insurance company yourself, you are dealing with a sophisticated and well-funded organization that does not have your best interests at heart. In most cases the insurance company will seek to take advantage of their superior experience and knowledge in order to minimize the amount of compensation they eventually pay to you. An experienced dog bite lawyer can protect you from being victimized by the insurance company.
In addition to this, there are many things that you will not be aware of that are critical to preserving and processing your claim. For example, if your claim cannot be settled in a timely fashion, then you must file a lawsuit within two years of being injured. This is called the Statute of Limitations. The process of preparing, filing, and pursuing a lawsuit in Colorado takes a great amount of experience, knowledge and skill.
An experienced dog bite lawyer will also help you navigate through your medical treatment and recovery process. He will gather medical records, medical bills, and work with your medical doctors and other experts to determine the extent of your injuries, whether they are physical, emotional, or economic. These injuries may include scarring, lost wages, loss of future earning capacity, as well as emotional distress and the loss of enjoyment of life.
McCormick & Murphy has been handling serious dog bite injury cases in Colorado for over 30 years. We have the knowledge and experience to help you in the event you are injured by a dog bite.
Being attacked by a dog in Colorado Springs can leave you with more than just physical wounds. You might be facing painful injuries, mounting medical bills, lost income, and the emotional burden of trauma. The stress of wondering how you’ll pay for everything, and if you can hold the dog owner responsible, can feel overwhelming.
The good news is that Colorado law strongly protects dog bite victims. You have the right to seek full compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and suffering.
At McCormick & Murphy, P.C., we focus on helping dog bite victims recover the maximum compensation they deserve. Since our founding in 1995, our dedicated Colorado Springs dog bite injury lawyers have guided victims across Colorado. We understand the financial strain and uncertainty you’re experiencing. That’s why we offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis – meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. Your recovery is our priority, not your wallet.
Dog bite cases are often more intricate than many people realize. While Colorado has strict liability laws that favor victims, insurance companies are experts at minimizing payouts or denying claims altogether. They have teams of lawyers working to protect their interests – you need someone equally skilled fighting for yours. Our founders, Kirk R. McCormick and James “Jay” Murphy, bring over 60 years of combined legal experience, including valuable insights from their prior work representing insurance companies. They know how the other side thinks and operates.
A dog bite can lead to significant financial and personal burdens, including:
Without experienced legal representation from McCormick & Murphy, P.C., you risk settling for far less than your case is truly worth. Insurance companies often rely on victims not knowing their rights or the full value of their claim.
Colorado follows a strict liability rule for dog bites. This means dog owners are responsible for injuries their pets cause, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before or shown aggressive behavior. This law strongly favors victims, but you still need to prove your case effectively, and that’s where our legal expertise comes in.
Insurance companies, including homeowners’ or renters’ insurers of the dog owner, use predictable strategies to reduce what they pay:
Building a strong case requires clear medical evidence. Many victims find it challenging to:
Sometimes, responsibility extends beyond just the dog owner. Our investigations at McCormick & Murphy, P.C., aim to identify all liable parties, which may include:
When you choose McCormick & Murphy, P.C., you gain a dedicated partner committed to your recovery and justice. We’ve recovered millions of dollars for accident victims across Colorado, including significant results for dog bite cases.
During your free consultation, we will:
We conduct detailed investigations to build a strong case, including:
We work closely with medical professionals to:
Our attorneys manage all communications with insurance companies:
If insurance companies refuse to offer fair settlements, we are fully prepared to take your case to court. Our founders, Kirk R. McCormick and James “Jay” Murphy, have collectively tried hundreds of cases to juries.
We represent victims of all types of dog attacks, ensuring tailored legal strategies for each unique situation.
While every case is unique, compensation typically covers two main categories:
These are quantifiable financial losses, supported by documentation:
These compensate for non-financial losses:
Emotional Distress: Many victims develop lasting fears of dogs (cynophobia), anxiety, or PTSD requiring ongoing therapy and medication. This is a crucial component of non-economic damages.
We make the legal process as clear and stress-free as possible, so you can focus on getting better.
Your health is paramount. Get medical care right away, even for seemingly minor bites. Dog mouths contain dangerous bacteria that can cause serious infections (e.g., staph infections like MRSA). Prompt medical attention also creates crucial documentation for your legal case.
Call us as soon as you can after the attack. Early involvement allows us to:
While you focus on recovery, we’ll conduct a thorough investigation, gather all necessary evidence, and build a strong foundation for your claim. This process typically takes a few weeks, but continues as your medical treatment progresses.
Once we fully understand the extent of your injuries and losses, we’ll present a detailed demand to the insurance company and negotiate aggressively for the maximum compensation on your behalf.
Most cases resolve through settlement, providing a faster and more predictable outcome. However, if insurance companies refuse a fair offer, our firm, McCormick & Murphy, P.C., is fully prepared to take your case to trial to secure the justice you deserve, leveraging our extensive courtroom experience.
When you’re recovering from a traumatic dog attack, you need a legal team you can trust.
We will explore all available options, including homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policies, umbrella insurance policies, property owner liability (if the attack occurred on someone else’s property), and the personal assets of the dog owner.
Yes, Colorado law protects you when you are lawfully on private property. This includes visiting friends or family, making deliveries, performing work or services, or being invited onto the property.
Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can still recover damages if you were less than 50% at fault, though your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Our legal strategy aims to minimize any fault attributed to you.
Colorado’s statute of limitations for dog bite cases is two years from the date of the attack. However, it’s always best to contact an attorney immediately to protect evidence and your rights, as some related claims may have shorter deadlines (e.g., claims against government entities).
Colorado’s strict liability law means it doesn’t matter if the dog has never shown aggression before. The owner is still responsible for your medical costs and other damages from the first bite, provided the attack occurred in a public place or while you were lawfully on private property.
While you have the right to represent yourself, dog bite cases involve intricate legal and medical issues. Insurance companies have experienced lawyers – you should too. Studies show that victims with attorneys recover significantly more compensation than those representing themselves, even after legal fees.
Some victims minimize their injuries or avoid medical care due to cost concerns. This can worsen your injuries, lead to serious infections, give insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim, and make it harder to prove the extent of your damages.
Insurance adjusters are trained to get you to say things that hurt your case. They might try to get you to admit partial fault, minimize your injuries, or record statements without your full awareness. Always consult with McCormick & Murphy, P.C., before speaking to an insurer.
Failing to report the bite to animal control or police can make it harder to prove the attack occurred, prevent documentation of the dog’s aggressive behavior, and reduce the credibility of your case.
Insurance companies often make fast, low offers before you understand the full extent of your injuries. These offers rarely cover future medical expenses, long-term complications, scarring, or psychological trauma. Never accept a settlement without consulting with McCormick & Murphy, P.C.
Dog bite cases have strict deadlines for filing insurance claims, preserving evidence, and filing lawsuits. Missing these can mean losing your right to compensation.
Don’t wait to protect your rights. The sooner you act, the stronger your case can be.
Contact our Colorado Springs dog bite lawyers at McCormick & Murphy, P.C., for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll:
Each day you delay seeking legal help is another day that evidence may disappear, witnesses’ memories fade, insurance companies gain advantages, and your financial stress increases.
Dog bite injuries are serious matters that demand skilled legal representation. You shouldn’t have to face insurance companies and intricate legal procedures alone while you’re trying to recover from a traumatic attack.
When you choose McCormick & Murphy, P.C., you’re getting:
We know that no amount of money can undo the trauma of a dog attack, but fair compensation can help you move forward with your life. You deserve to have your medical bills paid, your lost wages recovered, and your pain and suffering acknowledged.
Don’t let insurance companies take advantage of you during this difficult time. Contact our Colorado Springs dog bite injury lawyers today and let us fight for the compensation you deserve. Your consultation is free, and you pay nothing unless we win your case.
We provide convenient and exceptional legal services to personal injury victims throughout the state of Colorado, we have offices in:
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Disclaimer: The information on this website is for information purposes only. This website should not be taken as legal advice. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. This information should not be taken as the formation of a lawyer or attorney client relationship.
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