What types of injuries can result from dog attacks?

Common dog attack injuries include deep puncture wounds, lacerations requiring stitches or reconstructive surgery, permanent scarring, nerve damage, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and psychological trauma including PTSD and cynophobia (fear of dogs).

What compensation can I receive for a dog bite injury?

Dog bite victims may be eligible for compensation including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, reconstructive surgery costs, psychological counseling, and other damages related to the attack and recovery process.

How can I prevent dog bites?

To reduce dog bite risk: never approach dogs who are eating, drinking, caring for puppies, sleeping, or playing with toys; remain calm around animals; watch for warning signs like yawning, excessive licking, stiff tail, rolled-back eyes, pacing, raised fur, and rigid body posture; and maintain distance if you observe these signals.

Do I need a lawyer for my dog bite case?

While not required, consulting with an experienced Denver dog bite lawyer is essential to understand your rights under Colorado dog bite law. Attempting to handle a dog bite claim alone or dealing directly with insurance companies often works against your best interests.

Denver Dog Bite Injury Lawyers

Dog Bite Attorney Denver

Did you or a loved one sustain injuries from a dog attack in Denver? The experienced Denver dog bite attorneys at McCormick & Murphy P.C. are ready to help. With decades of experience securing compensation for dog bite victims throughout Colorado, our law firm offers compassionate legal representation. We can review your case during a free consultation and explain all available legal options.

McCormick & Murphy Can Help with Your Dog Attack Claim

In American culture, dogs are known as “man’s best friend,” with millions of owners nationwide. However, these beloved pets can pose significant dangers. Nearly 4.5 million Americans suffer dog bites annually, with children accounting for approximately half of these victims. About 20% of dog bites result in injuries requiring medical attention.

Dog bite incidents occur daily throughout Colorado, including Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, and surrounding communities. If you’ve been injured in a dog attack, consulting with a qualified Denver dog bite lawyer is essential to understand your rights under Colorado dog bite law. Our experienced Denver dog bite attorneys can help determine if pursuing compensation through a personal injury lawsuit is appropriate for your situation.

INJURED IN A DOG ATTACK? WE ARE HERE TO HELP.

The aftermath of a dog attack involves pain, anxiety, and confusion. McCormick & Murphy’s dog bite attorneys understand this challenging time and are committed to helping victims recover fair compensation. Contact our Denver personal injury law firm now for a FREE case review. A qualified Colorado dog bite attorney will listen to your case details and explain your legal options.

What To Do if a Dog Bites You in Denver, CO

After a serious dog bite or attack in Denver, immediately call 911 to ensure prompt medical treatment. Untreated dog bites can lead to serious infections, permanent damage, and even death in severe cases.

When able, report the incident to Denver Animal Protection or your local animal control department, providing as much information as possible about the attack and the dog owner.

Next, consult a qualified Denver dog bite attorney experienced with Colorado’s dog bite statute and premises liability laws. A reputable Denver personal injury lawyer will assess your case and advise whether you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

What Are the Most Common Types of Dog Bite Injuries?

Dogs can attack violently, causing serious injuries, especially to children. Common dog attack injuries include:

Hand And Arm Injuries

Many victims instinctively use their hands and arms to protect themselves during an attack, resulting in defensive wounds or being knocked to the ground by aggressive breeds like pit bulls, rottweilers, or German shepherds.

Puncture Wounds

Dogs’ powerful jaws and teeth are their primary weapons. Severe bites often leave deep puncture wounds, while a dog’s claws can cause broad laceration injuries that may require stitches or reconstructive surgery.

Scarring And Disfigurement

When dogs pull at skin, the resulting tears often cause permanent scarring, which can be particularly devastating when facial injuries occur.

Damage to the Nerves

Fierce bites can reach delicate tissues and nerves beneath the skin, potentially causing permanent nerve damage and long-term disability.

Emotional Distress

A dog attack is a terrifying experience. Victims frequently develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and lasting cynophobia (fear of dogs).

Death

Children and older adults are particularly vulnerable to fatal injuries from dog attacks, especially from dangerous dog breeds.

Not all injuries result directly from bites. Sometimes, an aggressive dog will knock a person down, causing injuries like traumatic brain injuries or broken bones. Regardless of the injury type, innocent victims who did nothing to provoke the attack have the right to seek fair compensation under Colorado personal injury law.

Colorado Dog Bites

Dog Bites Can be Extremely Dangerous and Costly

Dog bites and attacks often require costly medical care and treatment. In 2012, approximately 30,000 people needed reconstructive surgery following dog bites. Infections are common, and dogs may carry serious diseases like rabies, requiring emergency medical attention.

Never attempt to treat a dog bite without professional care. If injured in an attack, seek immediate medical assistance. Only a healthcare provider can properly assess your wounds and determine appropriate treatment. Depending on severity, you may need emergency room care or hospitalization.

Preventing Dog Bites in Colorado

While no method guarantees prevention, these steps can reduce your risk of dog bites in Denver and throughout Colorado:

Respect Boundaries

Dogs, like people, need space. Never approach a dog who is eating, drinking, caring for puppies, sleeping, or playing with toys. Even with familiar animals, allow them to see and sniff you before making contact. Avoid approaching unfamiliar dogs unless absolutely necessary.

Stay Calm

Remain calm around animals. Dogs may perceive loud voices or animated movements as threats. If concerned about a potential attack, don’t run away. Remain still until the animal loses interest.

Watch for Warning Signs

Dogs display behaviors when agitated, indicating higher bite risk. Yawning, excessive licking, stiff tail, rolled-back eyes, pacing, raised fur, and rigid body posture are warning signs. If you observe these signals, maintain distance and avoid interaction.

What Responsibilities Do Dog Owners Have in Denver?

Dog owners in Denver and throughout Colorado have numerous responsibilities under local ordinances and state law. Beyond basic pet care, they must ensure their animals don’t harm others.

When dog owners neglect to properly socialize their pets or restrain them appropriately, they expose themselves to premises liability claims and potential legal liability for injuries.

Here are key responsibilities of every dog owner in Denver:

Addressing aggressive tendencies early through proper training
Restraining their dog when not on their property using leashes in compliance with Denver leash laws
Maintaining current vaccinations, including rabies shots
Keeping dogs away from strangers when necessary
Posting warning signs when a dog is aggressive or dangerous
Following Denver’s breed-specific legislation regarding restricted breeds

Contact Our Denver Dog Bite Injury Claim Lawyers

Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer in Denver

If you’ve been injured in a dog attack, you may be eligible for compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Attempting to handle a dog bite claim alone or dealing directly with insurance companies often works against your best interests.

Instead, seek help from the compassionate, skilled Denver dog bite lawyers at McCormick & Murphy P.C. Our Colorado personal injury law firm has extensive experience representing dog attack victims. We understand both the visible injuries and hidden trauma these attacks cause.

Contact us anytime, 24/7 for a free consultation at 888-668-1182 or through our online contact form to discuss your dog bite case and potential compensation under Colorado’s dog bite liability laws.

Denver Dog Bite Attorney Services

General Dog Bite Representation

Specific Victim Types

Injury Types & Medical Issues

Location & Circumstance-Specific Cases

General Dog Bite Representation

Specific Victim Types

Injury Types & Medical Issues

Location & Circumstance-Specific Cases

When a dog attack happens in an instant, its physical pain, emotional distress, and financial burden can last far longer. If you or someone you care about has been injured by a dog in Denver, Colorado, you’re likely facing mounting medical bills, lost income, and a deep sense of injustice. You shouldn’t have to carry this burden alone.

At McCormick & Murphy, P.C., our Denver dog bite injury lawyers focus exclusively on personal injury cases, including dog bite incidents. Since our founding in 1995, we have helped countless victims recover significant compensation. We understand the challenges you’re experiencing and how insurance companies often attempt to undervalue your claim. We are here to stand with you, fighting to secure every dollar you deserve so you can focus on your recovery. 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 anticipating and countering defense tactics.

Understanding Denver Dog Bite Cases: What You Need to Know

Colorado’s Strict Liability Laws: An Advantage for Victims (and Its Nuances)

Colorado law includes strict liability for dog bites under Colorado Revised Statute 13-21-124, meaning dog owners are generally responsible for injuries their pets cause when the victim is lawfully on public or private property – even if the dog has never shown aggression before. This rule is a significant advantage for victims because it means you usually don’t have to prove the owner knew their dog was dangerous to recover certain damages.

However, the law has important details that can significantly affect your compensation:

Economic damages (like medical bills, lost wages, and property damage) are typically recoverable under strict liability, especially if the bite results in “serious bodily injury” (defined as an injury involving a substantial risk of death, serious permanent disfigurement, or significant impairment of a body part, such as a broken bone or severe burn).
Non-economic damages (like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life) often require proving the dog owner’s negligence (e.g., owner knew of prior aggressive behavior, violated leash laws, failed to properly restrain the dog). If negligence is proven, the general Colorado personal injury non-economic damage cap, which can be as much as $1,500,000 (effective January 1, 2025), may apply.
Comparative fault rules can reduce your compensation if you are found partly responsible (e.g., provoked the dog, were trespassing).
Statute of limitations gives you two years from the date of the attack to file a claim, making timely action essential.

The Hurdles Dog Bite Victims Often Face

Insurance Companies Resist Fair Payouts Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize what they pay. They often make quick, low offers, hoping you’ll accept before fully understanding the long-term impact of your injuries.

Medical Costs Accumulate Quickly Dog bite injuries frequently demand:

Emergency room treatment at Denver Health or other local hospitals.
Surgical procedures, including reconstructive and plastic surgery for scarring.
Physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Psychological counseling for trauma (like PTSD or cynophobia).
Ongoing medical care for infections or nerve damage.

Lost Income Adds to Your Stress While you recover, you may be unable to work. For severe injuries, you might face permanent disability that impacts your ability to earn for years to come.

Emotional Trauma is a Real Impact Many dog bite victims develop lasting fears, anxiety, and PTSD. Children are especially vulnerable to long-term psychological effects that can affect their development and daily life.

Our Proven Approach to Securing Your Full Recovery

We Build Strong Cases Through Meticulous Investigation

Gathering Essential Evidence We immediately begin collecting evidence to strengthen your case:

Medical records and detailed treatment documentation from Denver providers.
Photos of injuries and the attack scene (e.g., at a Denver park or residential area).
Witness statements from anyone who saw the incident.
Animal control reports from Denver Animal Protection and police documentation.
The dog’s history (e.g., prior aggression, vaccination records).
Property owner information and insurance details (homeowner’s, renter’s, umbrella policies).

Proving Negligence When Necessary for Full Damages While Colorado’s strict liability covers economic damages for serious bodily injury, we often pursue negligence claims to ensure you receive full compensation, including for pain and suffering. We investigate whether the owner:

Failed to properly restrain their dog (e.g., leash law violations in Denver).
Ignored previous aggressive behavior or bite incidents.
Allowed their dog in prohibited areas (e.g., off-leash in a leashed park).
Violated local Denver ordinances concerning dog ownership.

We Counter Insurance Companies’ Tactics

Anticipating and Responding to Insurance Strategies Insurance companies use predictable methods to reduce payouts. Our founders’ experience having worked for insurance companies gives us unique insight into these strategies:

Claiming you provoked the dog.
Arguing you were trespassing.
Minimizing the severity of injuries.
Pressuring you to settle before your full damages are known.

We recognize these strategies and effectively counter them with solid evidence and deep legal understanding.

Negotiating from a Position of Strength Our history of successful settlements and trial victories gives us a strong position in negotiations. Insurance companies know McCormick & Murphy, P.C., is prepared to take cases to court if they won’t offer fair compensation. Our firm has recovered millions of dollars for personal injury victims, including significant results for dog bite cases.

We Calculate All Your Damages

Economic Damages

Current and future medical expenses (including emergency room, surgical, rehabilitation, and long-term care).
Lost wages and reduced earning capacity (past and future).
Property damage (torn clothing, damaged items).
Transportation costs for medical care.

Non-Economic Damages

Pain and suffering (physical pain, emotional distress, mental anguish).
Emotional trauma (e.g., PTSD, anxiety, fear of dogs).
Scarring and disfigurement (and the impact on self-esteem).
Loss of enjoyment of life (inability to pursue hobbies, social activities).
Impact on relationships and daily activities.

Punitive Damages In cases involving particularly reckless behavior or willful misconduct (e.g., a known dangerous dog unleashed in a crowded area), we may pursue punitive damages to hold the defendant accountable and deter similar conduct.

Protecting Your Future: What to Do After a Dog Attack

Immediate Steps to Protect Your Health and Your Case

Seek Medical Attention First Even seemingly minor dog bites can lead to serious infections (e.g., cellulitis, Pasteurella) or complications like nerve damage. Getting immediate medical care at Denver Health or other local facilities creates essential documentation for your case.

Document Everything

Take clear photos of your injuries, the dog, the attack scene, and any damaged clothing.
Get contact information (name, phone, email) from witnesses.
Report the incident to Denver Animal Protection and the local police.
Keep all medical records, bills, and receipts meticulously.
Document how the injury affects your daily life in a journal.

Do Not Talk to Insurance Companies Alone Insurance adjusters may contact you quickly after an incident. Be polite but firmly refer them to your attorney at McCormick & Murphy, P.C. Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim.

Who Can Be Held Accountable

Dog Owners The primary accountability lies with the dog’s owner, regardless of where the attack occurred, under Colorado’s strict liability law.

Property Owners/Landlords Landlords or property owners may be accountable if they knew about a dangerous dog on their property and failed to take action to protect visitors.

Employers If the dog owner was working when the attack occurred (e.g., a delivery driver), their employer might share accountability.

Government Entities In rare cases involving animal control negligence or dangerous conditions on public property (like a faulty fence in a Denver park), a government entity might be held liable.

Time Limits You Must Know

Colorado’s statute of limitations generally gives you two years from the date of injury to file a dog bite lawsuit. However, waiting too long can hurt your case because:

Evidence may be lost or destroyed (e.g., surveillance footage, physical evidence).
Witnesses’ memories fade.
Medical records become harder to obtain or connect directly to the incident.
Insurance companies become less willing to negotiate fairly.

Why Our Experience Makes a Difference for You

Specialized Knowledge Delivers Results

Understanding Animal Behavior We work with animal behavior experts who can testify about dog aggression patterns, the circumstances of the attack, and whether an attack was predictable.

Medical Expertise Our network includes plastic surgeons, infectious disease specialists, neurologists (for TBIs from falls), and mental health professionals who understand the full scope of dog bite injuries.

Insurance Industry Insight With over 60 years of combined legal experience, including prior work representing insurance companies, our founders have taught us how different insurance companies operate and what strategies work best with each one to maximize recovery for clients.

Trial-Ready Representation

While most dog bite cases settle out of court, insurance companies offer better settlements when they know you have attorneys willing and able to take your case to trial.

Our Trial Advantages:

Extensive courtroom experience in Denver District Court and Federal Court.
Powerful presentation of evidence, including visual aids and expert testimony.
Strong expert witness relationships for compelling support.
Proven track record of jury verdicts, securing favorable outcomes for clients.

Your Questions Answered: Addressing Common Concerns About Hiring a Dog Bite Lawyer

“I Can’t Afford a Lawyer”

You pay nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if we recover compensation for you. Our fee comes from the settlement or verdict, not from your pocket. We also advance all case expenses.

“The Dog Owner Is My Neighbor”

We understand these situations are sensitive. Our goal is to get you fair compensation while handling the matter professionally and directly with their insurance company, minimizing personal confrontation.

“My Injuries Aren’t That Serious”

Dog bite injuries often have hidden complications. Infections, nerve damage, and scarring may not be apparent immediately. Even minor-looking bites can result in significant medical bills and permanent effects, including psychological trauma. Always seek medical attention and legal advice.

“It Was Partially My Fault”

Colorado’s modified comparative fault laws mean you can still recover damages even if you were partially responsible. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault, but we’ll fight to minimize any blame attributed to you and maximize your recovery.

Understanding the Impact: Types of Dog Bite Injuries We Handle

Physical Injuries

Puncture Wounds and Lacerations Deep bites can damage muscles, tendons, and bones, requiring surgical repair and extensive rehabilitation. They carry a high risk of infection.

Facial Injuries Attacks to the face and head, especially in children, often result in permanent scarring and may require multiple reconstructive surgeries.

Infections Dog bites carry high infection risks, including:

Cellulitis (skin infection).
Sepsis (life-threatening systemic infection).
Rabies (rare but serious, requiring prophylaxis).
Tetanus.

Nerve Damage Severe bites can cause permanent nerve damage, leading to lasting loss of sensation, motor function, or chronic pain in affected areas.

Psychological Trauma

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Many victims develop PTSD, especially children, which can require years of therapy and significantly impact quality of life, including flashbacks and avoidance behaviors.

Phobias and Anxiety Fear of dogs (cynophobia) or public spaces can limit victims’ activities and relationships long after physical wounds heal. We ensure these are documented and included in your claim.

Depression The combination of physical pain, medical bills, and lifestyle changes often leads to depression requiring professional treatment.

Your Journey to Justice: Our Step-by-Step Process for Dog Bite Cases

Step 1: Free Consultation and Case Evaluation

We’ll meet with you at no charge to:

Listen to your story and assess your case with compassion.
Explain your legal rights and options under Colorado law.
Discuss potential compensation, factoring in the new 2025 non-economic damage caps for negligence claims.
Answer all your questions about the legal process.
Provide honest advice about your case’s strengths and what to expect.

Step 2: Immediate Investigation and Evidence Preservation

Once you hire us, we immediately begin:

Securing medical records and documentation.
Investigating the incident scene in Denver.
Interviewing witnesses.
Obtaining animal control reports.
Researching the dog’s history and the owner’s insurance coverage.
Identifying all accountable parties and calculating your full damages.

Step 3: Medical Documentation and Expert Consultation

We ensure your injuries are properly documented by:

Coordinating with your medical providers in Denver.
Consulting with specialists about long-term effects and future needs.
Obtaining expert opinions on scarring, disability, and prognosis.
Documenting psychological trauma and treatment needs.

Step 4: Demand and Negotiation

We prepare a detailed demand package including:

Complete medical documentation.
Economic loss calculations.
Evidence of accountability.
Expert reports when needed.
Powerful presentation of your damages.

Step 5: Litigation if Necessary

If negotiations don’t result in fair compensation, we are prepared to file a lawsuit and take your case to trial in Denver. Our trial attorneys have extensive courtroom experience and will fight for the compensation you deserve.

Tailored Support for Every Victim

Children and Dog Attacks

Children are disproportionately affected by dog attacks and face unique challenges:

Higher risk of facial injuries due to height.
Greater psychological impact and trauma.
Longer recovery periods, potentially affecting development and social skills.
Need for specialized medical and psychological care.

We understand how to calculate damages for child victims, including future medical needs and the long-term impact on their lives.

Elderly Victims

Older adults may be more vulnerable to dog attacks and face unique consequences:

Slower healing and higher infection risk.
Greater likelihood of falls and secondary injuries.
Potential impact on independence and quality of life.
Fixed incomes making medical costs more burdensome.

Delivery Workers and Service Personnel

Mail carriers, delivery drivers, and other service providers face higher risks of dog attacks. These cases often involve workers’ compensation claims in addition to personal injury claims, requiring a comprehensive legal approach.

Local Expertise, Local Results: Denver-Specific Legal Considerations

Local Animal Control Laws

Denver has specific ordinances regarding:

Leash requirements in public areas (e.g., Denver parks and open spaces).
Dangerous dog classifications and procedures.
Owner responsibilities and penalties for violations.
Reporting requirements for attacks to Denver Animal Protection.

We know these local laws and how they can strengthen your case.

Venue and Court Considerations

Different Denver area courts have varying procedures and tendencies. Our local experience helps us:

Choose the most favorable venue when possible (e.g., Denver District Court, Federal Court).
Understand local jury pools.
Work effectively with familiar judges and court staff.
Handle local procedural requirements efficiently.

Why Choose McCormick & Murphy, P.C. as Your Advocate in Denver

Focused Expertise

We concentrate on personal injury cases, with significant experience in dog bite claims. This focus means we stay current on legal developments and have refined our approach through handling hundreds of similar cases. Our founders’ insights into insurance defense are a key advantage.

Personalized Attention

You’re not just a case number. We limit our caseload to ensure every client receives the attention they deserve. You’ll have direct access to your attorney and regular updates on your case’s progress.

Complete Support

We handle every aspect of your case so you can focus on healing:

Dealing with insurance companies.
Coordinating medical care.
Investigating the incident.
Calculating damages.
Negotiating settlements.
Preparing for trial if needed.

No Recovery, No Fee

You pay nothing unless we win your case. This contingency fee arrangement aligns our interests with yours – we only succeed when you do. We also advance all case expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is my dog bite case worth?

Case values depend on many factors including:

Severity of injuries (including any permanent scarring or TBI).
Medical expenses (current and future).
Lost income and earning capacity.
Pain and suffering and emotional trauma (factoring in the 2025 non-economic damage caps for negligence claims).
Scarring and disfigurement.
Available insurance coverage.

We’ll provide a realistic assessment during your free consultation.

How long will my case take?

Most dog bite cases settle within 6-18 months, but complex cases (e.g., with severe injuries, disputed liability) may take longer. Factors affecting timeline include:

Severity of injuries and treatment duration.
Insurance company cooperation.
Disputed accountability issues.
Whether litigation is necessary.

What if the dog owner doesn’t have insurance?

We explore all potential sources of compensation:

Homeowner’s or renter’s insurance.
Umbrella policies.
Property owner accountability (e.g., landlord liability).
Personal assets of the dog owner.
Your own insurance coverage (e.g., medical payments, uninsured motorist).

Can I still recover if I was trespassing?

Colorado law generally provides exceptions to strict liability if you were unlawfully on public or private property or provoked the dog. We’ll analyze the specific circumstances of your case to determine your rights and any potential defenses.

What if the dog has bitten someone before?

Previous attacks can significantly strengthen your case by showing the owner knew of the dog’s dangerous tendencies. This knowledge can support claims for negligence and potentially punitive damages and full compensation.

Take Action Today – Your Rights Are Time-Sensitive

Dog bite injuries are serious, and you deserve dedicated legal representation. Every day you wait gives insurance companies more time to build defenses against your claim and makes evidence harder to preserve.

Don’t let someone else’s negligence derail your life. You have rights, and we’re here to protect them.

Why Call Now?

Free consultation with no obligation.
Immediate investigation to preserve crucial evidence.
Protection from insurance tactics that could hurt your case.
Peace of mind knowing experienced lawyers are fighting for you.
Maximum compensation for all your damages, leveraging new 2025 damage caps.

What to Expect When You Call

When you contact our office, you’ll speak with a knowledgeable team member who will:

Listen to your story with compassion.
Schedule your free consultation quickly.
Explain the legal process in plain English.
Answer your immediate questions.
Connect you with an experienced attorney from McCormick & Murphy, P.C., for your case.

Contact Our Denver Dog Bite Injury Lawyers Today

You didn’t ask to be attacked by someone else’s dog. You shouldn’t have to face the aftermath alone. Our experienced Denver dog bite injury lawyers at McCormick & Murphy, P.C., are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Call us now at 888-668-1182 for your free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to take your call.

Remember: You pay nothing unless we win your case. There’s no risk in calling, but there is significant risk in waiting.

Your recovery is our priority. Your compensation is our mission. Let us handle the legal fight while you focus on healing.

Don’t wait – call today and take the first step toward getting your life back on track.

The sooner you call, the sooner we can start building your case and fighting for the compensation you deserve. Dog bite injuries are traumatic enough without having to worry about medical bills and lost income. Let our experienced legal team shoulder that burden so you can concentrate on what matters most – your recovery.

Your case is unique, your injuries are real, and your rights matter. We’re here to make sure you’re treated fairly and compensated fully for everything you’ve been through.