Being bitten by a dog can be a traumatic experience, and it’s crucial to take immediate steps to protect your health and your legal rights. Dog bites can result in serious injuries, including infections, scarring, and emotional distress. In Denver, if you’re attacked by a dog due to the owner’s negligence, a dog bite lawyerr at the Law Firm of Jeremy Rosenthal can help you navigate the legal process and pursue a fair settlement for your injuries.
What is a Dog Bite Incident in Denver?
A dog bite incident occurs when a dog attacks a person, causing injury, whether through biting, scratching, or otherwise. Dog bites can happen in various situations, such as when a dog is not properly controlled, is provoked, or is simply aggressive. Under Colorado law, dog owners can be held liable for injuries caused by their pets if the owner was negligent in controlling the dog or if the dog has a history of aggression. A skilled dog bite lawyer can help you determine liability and fight for your rights after an attack.
Assess the Injury Immediately
Your health is the top priority after a dog bite. Assessing the injury promptly and addressing it correctly can help prevent complications such as infection or further harm.
Clean the Wound with Soap and Water
As soon as you’re bitten, it’s important to clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water. This will help reduce the risk of infection and bacteria entering the wound.
Apply Antibiotic Cream to Prevent Infection
After cleaning the wound, apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to the area to reduce the risk of infection. If the bite is severe or the skin is broken, medical attention should be sought immediately.
Seek Medical Attention for Serious Wounds
Even if the wound seems minor, it’s essential to seek medical attention, especially if the bite is deep, bleeding heavily, or located on a vulnerable area like the face, hands, or joints. Dog bites can transmit infections, including rabies, so timely medical care is essential.
Report the Dog Bite Promptly
Reporting the incident is crucial for both your health and any potential legal claims. Reporting helps to document the attack and may prevent future incidents.
To the Denver Animal Protection (DAP)
Immediately report the dog bite to Denver Animal Protection (DAP). They will initiate an investigation into the incident and can help ensure the dog is properly quarantined or tested for rabies, if necessary.
Call DAP at Their Hotline
DAP has a dedicated hotline for reporting animal bites. You can reach them at (720) 913-1311, and they will guide you on what steps to take next.
Provide Details of the Incident
When you report the bite, be sure to provide all relevant details, including the location, time, and circumstances of the incident, as well as a description of the dog and its owner (if known). This information is vital for the investigation and for protecting the public from future attacks.
To the Police, If Severe or Unprovoked
If the attack was severe, unprovoked, or the dog was aggressive, contact the police. They will file an official report, which can be used as evidence in any legal claims or insurance discussions.
When Immediate Safety Is a Concern
If the dog is still at large or poses an ongoing threat to others, it’s important to report it to the authorities immediately to ensure public safety.
If the Dog Appears Dangerous or Stray
If the dog is a stray or has shown signs of aggression toward others, authorities will likely conduct an investigation to assess whether the dog should be labeled dangerous or put under control to prevent future incidents.
Gather Evidence Thoroughly
Collecting evidence is critical for proving your case and securing fair compensation. Documenting the incident thoroughly can strengthen your claim.
Take Photos of Injuries and the Scene
If you’re physically able, take photographs of your injuries and the scene of the attack. Photos can help illustrate the severity of the injury and the conditions under which the attack occurred, supporting your case.
Collect Witness Contact Information
Witnesses to the attack can provide valuable testimony in a legal case. Get names and contact details from anyone who saw the incident, as they may be able to corroborate your version of events.
Obtain the Dog Owner’s Information
If the dog’s owner is known, make sure to gather their contact information, including their name, address, phone number, and insurance details. This information will be necessary for your lawyer to pursue compensation on your behalf.
Name, Address, and Phone Number
Getting the owner’s contact information is essential for any insurance claim or legal action. You’ll also need to verify that the dog is current on vaccinations, particularly rabies, to prevent further complications.
Dog’s Vaccination History, If Possible
If possible, try to obtain the dog’s vaccination history. This is especially important for determining the risk of rabies transmission, which could require a series of expensive and painful post-exposure treatments.
Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer
The next step after a dog bite incident is to consult with a personal injury lawyer who can help you understand your rights and evaluate your options for pursuing compensation.
Understanding Your Rights in Denver
In Colorado, dog bite victims have the right to pursue compensation from the dog’s owner if the owner’s negligence led to the injury. Colorado follows a strict liability law when it comes to dog bites, meaning the owner is typically liable for injuries caused by their dog, even if they didn’t know the dog was dangerous.
Colorado Dog Bite Laws
Colorado law holds dog owners accountable for injuries caused by their pets, even if the dog has no history of aggressive behavior. If the dog has bitten before, the owner could face even more severe liability under state law.
Potential for Compensation Claims
A dog bite lawyer at the Law Firm of Jeremy Rosenthal can help you determine if you have grounds for a personal injury claim and help you pursue a fair settlement for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and more.
Medical Expenses
You may be entitled to compensation for your current and future medical expenses, including emergency care, hospital stays, doctor visits, surgery, and physical therapy.
Lost Wages
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may also be able to recover compensation for lost wages and potential future income loss.
Pain and Suffering
Dog bites often cause not only physical pain but emotional distress, including trauma and fear. Compensation for pain and suffering can address both the physical and psychological toll of the attack.
We’re on Your Side – Call Now for a 100% Free Consultation!
If you’ve been bitten by a dog due to the negligence of the owner, the dog bite lawyers at the Law Firm of Jeremy Rosenthal can help you secure a fair settlement. We offer free consultations to discuss your case, understand your rights, and evaluate your potential compensation. Our experienced team will guide you through the legal process, from filing claims to negotiating settlements, so you can focus on recovering from your injuries. Call us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward justice.
