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If you or a loved one has suffered injuries from a dog attack in Pueblo, the experienced dog bite attorneys at McCormick & Murphy, P.C. are ready to help. With over 60 years of combined legal experience handling dog bite cases throughout Colorado, our firm has successfully secured millions in compensation for dog attack victims. Pueblo County reports dozens of serious dog bite incidents annually, and Colorado’s strict liability laws provide strong protections for victims. Don’t delay – Colorado’s statute of limitations gives you limited time to file your claim. Contact us online or call 888-668-1182 for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your legal options.
In our culture, dogs are known as ‘man’s best friend.’ With approximately 90 million dog owners in the United States, these animals are beloved companions. However, dogs can become dangerous without proper training and supervision.
Nearly 4.5 million Americans suffer dog bites annually, with roughly half being children. According to the Centers for Disease Control, approximately 20% of dog bites result in injuries requiring medical attention, with over 800,000 victims needing emergency care each year.
Here in Pueblo County, our firm has handled dozens of serious dog bite cases, securing settlements ranging from $50,000 to over $250,000 for victims. Our attorneys understand both the physical and psychological trauma these attacks cause, and we have established relationships with Pueblo’s top medical providers who can document your injuries properly for your claim.
If you’ve been injured by a dog bite or attack in Pueblo, contact our experienced dog bite lawyers immediately. We have extensive experience negotiating with insurance companies that often try to minimize compensation for dog bite victims. An experienced Pueblo dog bite attorney can help determine whether filing a lawsuit is appropriate for your situation and guide you through Colorado’s specific dog bite liability laws.
INJURED IN A DOG ATTACK? WE ARE HERE TO HELP. The period immediately following a dog attack is filled with pain, anxiety, and confusion. If you’re suffering, we want to help. Contact McCormick & Murphy now for a FREE case review. A qualified Pueblo dog bite attorney from our firm will listen to the details of your case and explain your options.
After a serious dog bite or attack in Pueblo, call 911 immediately to ensure timely medical treatment. Dog bite wounds can cause serious infections, nerve damage, and even death if left untreated.
Once your immediate medical needs are addressed:
Next, contact a qualified Pueblo dog bite attorney experienced with Colorado’s dog bite statutes. At McCormick & Murphy, we understand Pueblo County’s specific animal control ordinances and have relationships with local investigators who can help establish liability in your case. A reputable Pueblo dog bite injury attorney will evaluate your case and advise whether you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and psychological trauma.
Dogs can attack violently and brutally, causing severe injuries that may require extensive treatment and rehabilitation. The most common dog attack injuries include:
Many victims instinctively raise their arms in defense during an attack, leading to severe lacerations, nerve damage, and even permanent loss of function. These injuries often require specialized reconstructive surgery and physical therapy.
The powerful jaws of dogs, particularly breeds like Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds, can exert over 300 pounds of pressure per square inch. These bites leave deep puncture wounds that are highly susceptible to infection, often requiring hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics. T
When a dog tears at skin, particularly on visible areas like the face, permanent scarring often results. Many victims require multiple plastic surgery procedures, which insurance companies often classify as “cosmetic” and refuse to cover. Our firm works with top plastic surgeons in Colorado who provide expert testimony about the necessity of these procedures.
Severe dog bites can damage nerves beneath the skin, leading to chronic pain, numbness, or loss of function. Nerve reconstruction surgeries can cost upwards of $50,000, with many victims requiring ongoing pain management.
Dog attack victims frequently develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), requiring psychological counseling that can continue for years. Children are particularly vulnerable to lasting psychological effects, often developing cynophobia (fear of dogs) that can significantly impact their quality of life.
In fatal dog attack cases, families may pursue wrongful death claims against negligent dog owners.
Not all injuries result directly from bites. Sometimes aggressive dogs knock victims down, causing traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, or spinal injuries. Regardless of the specific injury, innocent victims who did nothing to provoke the attack have the right to seek fair compensation under Colorado law.
A dog bite or attack can result in serious injuries requiring expensive medical treatment. In 2023, the average cost of dog bite-related hospital stays in Colorado exceeded $18,000, with some victims requiring reconstructive surgery costing $50,000 or more. Dog bites frequently become infected, with approximately 18% developing serious bacterial infections including Pasteurella, Staphylococcus, and Capnocytophaga.
Never attempt to treat a dog bite independently. Seek immediate medical attention, as only a healthcare professional can properly clean, treat, and document your wounds. Depending on injury severity, you may need emergency room care, antibiotics, tetanus shots, and follow-up treatment.
Colorado follows a “strict liability” standard for serious dog bite injuries under Colorado Revised Statute §13-21-124. This means dog owners are liable for injuries their dogs cause regardless of whether the dog previously showed aggressive tendencies. However, for less severe injuries, Colorado follows a “one-bite rule,” requiring proof the owner knew the dog was dangerous.
Pueblo County has specific animal control ordinances that may affect your case, including leash laws and requirements for containing dangerous animals. Our attorneys understand these local regulations and how they impact liability in dog bite cases.
Importantly, most homeowner’s insurance policies in Colorado cover dog bite liability, typically between $100,000-$300,000. However, some policies exclude certain breeds considered “high-risk,” such as Pit Bulls, which are subject to breed-specific restrictions in some Colorado municipalities.
While no method guarantees prevention of dog bites, these precautions can reduce your risk:
Our Pueblo 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.
Dog owners in Pueblo have numerous legal and ethical responsibilities beyond basic pet care. Colorado state law and Pueblo municipal codes establish specific obligations that, when neglected, can expose owners to significant personal injury claims.
Under Pueblo Municipal Code §11-4-7, dog owners must:
Additionally, Colorado state law requires dog owners to:
Many Pueblo homeowners’ associations impose additional restrictions on dog ownership, including breed and weight limitations. Renters should note that landlords can potentially share liability for dog bites if they knowingly allowed dangerous animals on their property.
When dog owners neglect these responsibilities, our attorneys know how to establish liability and secure the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
After suffering a dog attack, you may be entitled to significant compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma. In recent years, our firm has secured settlements for Pueblo dog bite victims ranging from $75,000 to over $250,000 depending on injury severity.
Don’t attempt to navigate the legal process alone or negotiate directly with insurance companies who prioritize minimizing payouts. Instead, trust the compassionate, skilled Pueblo dog bite lawyers at McCormick & Murphy, P.C.
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our attorneys respond to all inquiries within 24 hours, and we offer Spanish-speaking staff to assist our Latino community members.
Our Colorado law firm is passionate about helping dog attack victims. We understand both the visible and hidden wounds these attacks cause – from physical scars to lasting psychological trauma. We’re committed to securing the maximum compensation you deserve.
Contact us anytime, 24/7 for a free consultation at 888-668-1182 or fill out our online contact form. Virtual consultations are available for clients unable to visit our Pueblo office.”
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The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Pueblo and throughout Colorado is generally two years from the date of the injury. However, it’s essential to consult a personal injury lawyer to understand specific time limits and whether there are any exceptions.
In Pueblo, Colorado, your damages can include medical expenses, lost wages and the loss of your future earning potential, pain and suffering, permanent physical impairment, damages for scarring, and of course property damage to your vehicle. The sums recovered can vary widely based on the specifics of the case. If the dog has a prior history of biting other people or animals, you can possibly recover punitive damages.
The cost of a personal injury lawsuit can vary widely based on factors such as case complexity, the need for expert witnesses, and attorney fees.
In a dog bite case in Pueblo, required evidence may include medical records, photographs of the injuries, witness statements, and documentation of the dog’s history, if known. Evidence proving the owner’s knowledge of the dog’s aggressiveness can also be crucial. Much of this evidence can come from the Humane Society or other law enforcement agencies investigating the attack.
To recover money for your injuries, you typically need to prove the other party’s negligence or fault, the extent of your injuries, and the causal link between their actions and your injuries. This involves gathering evidence such as medical records, witness statements, and expert testimonials. Each case is different, and requesting, collecting, and interpreting this evidence can be complicated.
A dog attack can instantly change your life, leaving you or a loved one with physical wounds, emotional distress, and unexpected medical bills. You don’t just need legal help; you need dedicated advocates who understand the deep impact this trauma has on your life. Our Pueblo law firm, McCormick & Murphy, P.C., has a strong history of helping dog bite victims recover significant compensation, and we are ready to stand with you to seek the justice you deserve.
Since our founding in 1995, our Pueblo personal injury lawyers have been committed to protecting the rights of accident victims throughout Colorado. 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, which gives us a unique edge in fighting for your recovery.
Dog bite injuries happen quickly, but their effects can linger for years. In Pueblo, we assist with cases ranging from painful puncture wounds to severe facial injuries, nerve damage, and lasting psychological trauma. These cases can become complicated because insurance companies often try to reduce payouts. They might suggest the victim somehow caused the attack or that injuries aren’t as severe as reported.
The truth is, dog bite claims involve specific Colorado laws, including strict liability statutes, and local Pueblo ordinances. These details can greatly affect the compensation you receive. Without skilled legal guidance, you might accept far less than your claim is truly worth – or even receive nothing at all.
When you reach out to McCormick & Murphy, P.C., we act swiftly. Time is important in dog bite cases. Evidence can fade, witness memories can blur, and insurance companies begin building their defense immediately. Our team steps in to:
Dog bite injuries often require extensive medical care, and the full extent of your injuries may not be immediately clear. We work with medical professionals to:
Insurance companies employ teams of lawyers and adjusters whose main goal is to pay you as little as possible. They may use tactics like:
Our experienced attorneys at McCormick & Murphy, P.C., know these tactics and how to effectively counter them, leveraging our founders’ prior experience representing insurance companies. We will not allow insurance companies to take advantage of you during this difficult time.
Colorado follows a strict liability rule for dog bites. This means dog owners are generally responsible for injuries their pets cause, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before or the owner didn’t know the dog was dangerous. This law works in your favor, but it has important exceptions and details that require skilled legal interpretation.
Pueblo has specific animal control ordinances that can influence your case. These local laws, enforced by Pueblo Animal Law Enforcement (PALCO), address:
Understanding how these local ordinances interact with state law can significantly impact your compensation amount.
Most dog bite claims are covered under the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. However, some policies exclude certain breeds or have specific limits. Our attorneys know how to:
Dog attacks can cause severe physical harm that requires immediate medical attention and long-term care:
Puncture Wounds and Lacerations
Facial and Head Injuries
Nerve Damage
Bone Fractures
The emotional impact of a dog attack can be as devastating as the physical injuries, often requiring professional intervention:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Depression and Anxiety
Phobias (Cynophobia)
These are the clear, quantifiable financial losses you’ve suffered:
These compensate you for intangible losses that don’t have a specific dollar amount, but profoundly impact your life:
With Colorado’s recent legal updates, non-economic damages in personal injury cases can now reach up to $1,500,000 (effective January 1, 2025), making it vital to have attorneys who can accurately value these profound impacts.
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay attorney fees only if we win your case. This allows you to focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities of your claim, without financial burden. We also advance all case expenses, so you have zero upfront costs.
As Pueblo attorneys with a dedicated local office, we understand the local legal environment, including:
Every dog bite case is unique, and we treat each client as an individual, not just a case number. When you work with McCormick & Murphy, P.C., you will have direct access to your attorney and regular, clear updates on your case’s progress. We prioritize compassionate client service.
Sometimes it’s not immediately clear who owns the dog that attacked you. This can happen if:
Our investigators use various methods to identify dog owners, including checking animal control records, interviewing neighbors, and reviewing veterinary records.
Insurance companies often claim the victim somehow provoked the attack to avoid paying compensation. They might argue you:
We counter these defenses by gathering witness testimony, obtaining expert testimony about dog behavior, and demonstrating that your actions were reasonable and did not constitute provocation under Colorado law.
Children are especially vulnerable to dog attacks and often suffer more severe injuries. These cases present specific considerations:
Our attorneys have extensive experience handling cases involving child victims and know how to present these cases effectively and compassionately.
Some insurance policies exclude coverage for certain dog breeds. We challenge these exclusions by arguing that breed alone doesn’t determine a dog’s aggression and that the owner’s negligence or the dog’s behavior, not its breed, caused the attack. We seek to ensure you are not unfairly denied coverage due to breed restrictions.
During your free, confidential consultation, we will:
Once you choose our firm, McCormick & Murphy, P.C., we immediately begin building your case by:
Most dog bite cases resolve out of court through negotiations with insurance companies. Our attorneys will:
If we cannot reach a fair settlement through negotiation, we are ready to take your case to trial. Our trial attorneys, Kirk R. McCormick and James “Jay” Murphy, have extensive courtroom experience and will:
Even if your injuries seem minor, see a doctor right away. Dog bites can cause:
Prompt medical care is crucial for your health and creates vital documentation for your case.
Contact Pueblo Animal Law Enforcement (PALCO) and file a report. This creates an official record of the incident and may help prevent future attacks by dangerous animals.
The sooner you contact McCormick & Murphy, P.C., the better we can protect your rights and preserve evidence. Insurance companies often contact victims quickly, hoping to get recorded statements or quick settlements before victims understand their rights.
Call (719) 800-9407 or contact us online today for a free consultation.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
Colorado has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including dog bites. However, it’s important to contact an attorney much sooner because evidence can disappear, witness memories fade, and your injuries may worsen without proper documentation.
Even if the dog owner doesn’t have homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, you may still have options:
Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially responsible for the attack. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found to be 20% at fault, you’ll receive 80% of your total damages.
Property owners may also be responsible for dog attacks that occur on their premises if they knew the dog was dangerous, failed to warn visitors, or violated local ordinances, even if they aren’t the direct dog owner.
We work with economists, medical experts, and life care planners to ensure we account for all your damages:
Our attorneys use proven negotiation strategies to maximize your settlement:
Insurance companies know which attorneys are willing and able to take cases to trial. Because McCormick & Murphy, P.C., has extensive trial experience, insurance companies take our demands seriously and are more likely to offer fair settlements. We prepare every case as if it will go to court to maximize your chances of a full recovery.
Children are disproportionately affected by dog attacks and often suffer more severe injuries. Special considerations include:
Older adults may be more vulnerable to dog attacks and face unique challenges:
Mail carriers, delivery drivers, and other service providers face higher risks of dog attacks while on duty. These cases often involve workers’ compensation claims in addition to personal injury claims, requiring a comprehensive legal approach.
We work closely with your medical providers to ensure your injuries are properly documented through detailed medical records, photos, and expert opinions. This creates a clear, undeniable link between the dog attack and your injuries.
We can help coordinate your medical care to ensure you receive appropriate treatment, including referrals to specialists (e.g., plastic surgeons, neurologists) and assistance with insurance authorization issues, to ensure you get the best possible care in Pueblo.
We handle medical liens and payment issues so you can focus on recovery, negotiating with providers and protecting you from collection actions while your case is pending. We work to maximize your net recovery from your settlement.
Pueblo has specific ordinances that can affect your case, including leash laws and dangerous dog classifications. Our local attorneys are well-versed in how these local laws interact with state strict liability statutes.
Our local connections help strengthen your case, including medical providers who can provide expert testimony, and investigators familiar with the area and local animal control procedures.
Local juries may have different perspectives on dog ownership and responsibility in Pueblo, which can affect your case’s outcome. Our attorneys understand these nuances and tailor case presentation accordingly.
Insurance companies often try to delay cases, hoping you’ll give up or accept a lower offer out of financial desperation. We counter these tactics with assertive communication and readiness to litigate.
Initial offers are almost always far below what your case is worth. We fight for the full value of your claim, backed by thorough documentation and expert analysis.
Insurance companies may investigate you (e.g., through social media monitoring or private investigators) to find reasons to deny your claim. Our team prepares for these tactics and advises you on how to protect yourself.
We leave no stone unturned in investigating your case, gathering all available evidence to counter insurance company defenses and establish clear liability.
We work with qualified experts—medical, animal behavior, economic, and psychological—to strengthen your case and explain the full impact of your injuries and losses to insurers and juries.
We present your case in the most clear and persuasive way possible, using professional documentation, compelling narratives, and visual aids to ensure your story is heard and understood.
Animal control reports provide important evidence, including official documentation of the attack, details about the dog and owner, and information about the dog’s history.
Animal control handles quarantine and testing, including rabies testing and behavioral evaluation of the dog. We work with them to ensure all necessary information is collected.
Animal control may issue citations to the dog owner, require additional restraints, or declare the dog dangerous. These actions can further support your claim.
Dog attack victims often experience psychological trauma, including nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety, depression, and difficulty sleeping. We ensure these symptoms are documented and valued in your claim.
Various treatment options are available, including individual counseling, group therapy, medication, and specialized therapy for phobias. We can help you access these resources in Pueblo.
Recovery from psychological trauma takes time, and professional help should be sought when needed. We aim to secure compensation that covers the full scope of your long-term mental health needs.
Dog attacks often create immediate financial pressures, including emergency medical expenses and lost wages. We work quickly to try to secure early payments or help you manage these initial burdens.
Serious injuries may affect your long-term financial security, including reduced earning ability and ongoing medical expenses. We work with financial experts to project these future losses and ensure they are covered in your settlement.
We help ensure your settlement provides long-term security, including options like structured settlements for ongoing expenses and advising on tax planning related to your recovery.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack in Pueblo, do not delay seeking legal help. Every day you wait gives insurance companies more time to build their defense and potentially reduces your chances of fair compensation.
We offer free, no-obligation consultations where we will:
To make the most of your consultation, bring:
Remember, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means:
Colorado law gives you only two years to file a personal injury lawsuit for a dog bite. Missing this deadline means you lose your right to compensation forever.
Physical evidence, witness memories, and documentation become less reliable over time. The sooner we can begin investigating your case, the stronger it will be.
Insurance companies use delay tactics to their advantage. The longer you wait, the more time they have to build defenses against your claim and pressure you into a low settlement.
Gaps in medical treatment can be used against you. Prompt legal representation helps ensure you get appropriate medical care and documentation to support your claim.
A dog attack can change your life in an instant, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Our experienced Pueblo dog bite injury lawyers at McCormick & Murphy, P.C., are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on healing and recovery.
We understand the physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial stress you’re experiencing. More importantly, we know how to hold dog owners and insurance companies accountable for the harm they’ve caused.
Don’t let insurance companies take advantage of you during this difficult time. Contact our Pueblo dog bite injury lawyers today for your free consultation. We’ll explain your rights, answer your questions, and help you understand your options for moving forward.
Your case is important to us, and we’re committed to fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve. Call us now at 888-668-1182 or fill out our online contact form on https://mccormickmurphy.com/ to get started. The consultation is free, and you won’t pay any attorney fees unless we win your case.
Call 888-668-1182 or contact us online today. Your recovery and your future depend on it.
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