How Does Your Dog Bite Case Work
Getting attacked by a dog is scary. You have a lot to think about. How will I get better? Who is going to pay for my care? If the dog owner has no money how will I be compensated? We at The Victory Firm take the time to make sure we cover all of that for you, so you can focus on getting better.
1. Free Consultation with one of our Attorneys
We will talk to you about what happened, where it happened and what you know about the dog owner. We will then create a strategic plan for how to proceed on your dog bite case. You don't pay us anything unless we win.
3. We fight the dog owner, or their insurance company
Homeowner policies tend to kick in when someone is personally liable for the damages caused by a dog. Those insurance companies have legal teams to make sure you get as little pay out as possible.
2. We do all the investigation
We work up your case gathering animal control records, witness statements, medical bills, medical records. We investigate the owner to find out if they have insurance or assets to make sure you get a pay out. We will give you our honest opinion if you have a case.
4. We get you paid
We step in to make sure that you are compensated for your medical costs, lost wages, impairment, and pain and suffering. We will keep the insurance company honest and make sure we recover what your claim is worth.
LEGAL REFERENCE
Colorado Is a Strict Liability State. Under Colorado's dog bite statute (C.R.S. § 13-21-124), a dog owner is responsible for your damages if their dog caused serious bodily injury while you were lawfully on public or private property - regardless of whether the dog had bitten anyone before. You do not have to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous.
Know Your Deadline: In Colorado, you have 2 years from the date of the bite to file a lawsuit. This is a firm deadline, and evidence like witness memory can disappear quickly.
COLORADO DOG BITES FAQs
Do I need to prove the dog had bitten someone before in Colorado?
No. Colorado's strict liability dog bite law means the owner is responsible for a serious bite regardless of the dog's history or whether the owner had any reason to think the dog was dangerous. That's a significant advantage compared to states that still follow a "one bite" rule.
What counts as "serious bodily injury" under Colorado's dog bite law?
Generally, injuries that create a substantial risk of death, cause serious permanent disfigurement, or result in a lasting loss of function of a body part or organ. If you're unsure whether your injury qualifies, that's exactly the kind of question to bring to your free consultation.
What if I was on the dog owner's property when I got bitten?
You can still recover as long as you were lawfully on the property - for example, as an invited guest or someone there for a legitimate purpose. If you were trespassing, that can change the analysis, so it's worth discussing the specifics of where and why you were there.