Adams County · Non-bite dog attacks
Brighton Dog Attack Lawyers
Knocked down or chased by a dog in Brighton? Free consultation. No attorney fee unless we recover for you.
When It's Not a Bite Case
Colorado's dog bite statute, C.R.S. § 13‑21‑124, applies to bites. If a dog knocked you down, chased you into traffic, or scratched you without breaking skin with its teeth, that incident generally falls outside strict liability under that statute and instead has to be pursued as a negligence claim against the owner.
A negligence claim in a non-bite attack asks different questions than a bite claim. Did the owner keep reasonable control of the dog? Was the dog loose when it should have been leashed or contained? Did the owner know the dog was likely to charge, jump, or chase and fail to take reasonable precautions anyway? These facts drive the case.
Non-bite attacks can still cause serious injury. A knockdown can lead to broken bones, a head injury from hitting pavement, torn ligaments, or a lasting fear of dogs. We look at what actually happened to you and build the claim around the owner's conduct, not around whether teeth were involved.
Building a Negligence Claim
Because these cases turn on the owner's conduct rather than automatic liability, evidence about control and containment matters most. Was the dog on a leash? Was a gate or fence broken or left open? Did witnesses see the dog running loose before it knocked you down or chased you? Photos of the scene, the yard, or any fencing help establish whether the owner took reasonable care.
Medical records matter too, especially for injuries from a fall or collision with a dog rather than puncture wounds. Records from a visit to Intermountain Health Platte Valley Hospital or another provider help document what was hurt and how the injury happened. We also gather witness statements early, since memories of a chase or knockdown fade faster than memories of a bite.
- Photos of any bruising, swelling, or injury from the fall or impact
- Photos of the yard, fence, gate, or leash involved, if accessible
- Names and contact information for anyone who saw the dog loose or the attack happen
- Medical records from any visit related to the fall, impact, or injury
- Notes on where and when the dog got loose or approached you
Handling Brighton Cases
We handle non-bite dog attack claims from across Brighton, including incidents near Bridge Street, Bromley Lane, and along U.S. Highway 85, as well as nearby Commerce City and Thornton. Loose dogs and chases often happen in yards, driveways, and public walkways in these areas, and we know how to track down witnesses and property owners in this part of Adams County.
If a claim moves toward litigation, it's filed in Adams County, with proceedings handled at the Adams County Justice Center. Our office is in Denver, and we meet with Brighton clients by phone, video, or in person, whichever works best while you're recovering.
Possible Damages
- Medical care for fractures, head injury, or torn ligaments
- Lost income during recovery
- Pain and suffering from the injury
- Costs tied to physical therapy or rehabilitation
- Impact of any lasting fear of dogs or anxiety after the attack
What clients say about McCormick & Murphy
Real outcomes and reviews. Check Google reviews for the office that serves Brighton — and read client testimonials.
After I was hit by a drunk driver with no insurance, my own insurer refused UM benefits. McCormick & Murphy sued for uninsured motorist benefits and bad faith. A jury awarded me over $900,000.
C. O., Denver · UM / bad-faith verdict
Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every case depends on its facts, coverage, venue, and evidence.
Brighton Non-bite dog attacks FAQ
If the dog didn't bite me, do I still have a case?
Yes, but it's a negligence claim rather than a strict liability bite claim. We look at whether the owner failed to control the dog or keep it contained, and whether that failure caused your injury.
What counts as a non-bite dog attack?
This includes being knocked down, chased, jumped on, or scratched without a bite breaking the skin. Injuries from these events can be just as serious as a bite.
What do I need to prove in a negligence claim like this?
Generally, that the owner didn't use reasonable care to control or contain the dog and that this failure led to your injury. Evidence about leashes, fencing, and witness accounts of the dog being loose is central.
What if the dog scratched me and it's unclear whether teeth touched skin?
We look closely at the facts to determine whether the bite statute or a negligence theory applies, or both. It's common for an attack to have elements of each, and we sort that out rather than forcing it into one category.
Where would my case be handled if I live in Brighton?
Claims from Brighton and nearby areas in Adams County typically involve proceedings at the Adams County Justice Center. Our office is in Denver, and we can meet with you there or remotely.
Discuss a Brighton dog bite
Free consultation. No attorney fee unless we recover for you.