Dog bites can be traumatizing experiences that leave you dealing with physical injuries and financial burdens. Under Colorado law, however, you can pursue legal action if the bite resulted in serious injuries or if it was caused by negligence.
In this situation, legal support is crucial to securing fair compensation and protecting your rights. A Westminster personal injury lawyer from Boesen Law can make all the difference in your case’s outcome. We bring decades of expertise to guide you through the legal process and provide the support you need to move forward.
Reach out to our law firm for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation today. Call our personal injury lawyers in the state of Colorado at (303) 999-9999 or contact us online.
How a Westminster Dog Bite Lawyer at Boesen Law Can Help You
We understand how to work with Colorado’s dog bite statutes to build a solid claim and advocate for victims’ rights. Here’s how our lawyers can assist you:
- Understanding Colorado dog bite laws: Our team has in-depth knowledge of the statutes regarding strict liability and negligence for dog bites. We use this to align your case with state requirements and maximize your chances of compensation.
- Gathering evidence: We collect all pertinent information (including medical records detailing your injuries, photos of the wounds and accident scene, and witness testimonies), strengthening your case and demonstrating its impact on your life.
- Negotiating with insurers: Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. Our experienced attorneys negotiate assertively to ensure you aren’t shortchanged in settlement offers.
- Pursuing litigation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we can file a lawsuit and advocate for you in court. Our legal team has a proven track record of successfully litigating cases and using strategic arguments to achieve maximum compensation.
We’re deeply committed to protecting your rights and best interests throughout the process. With Boesen Law by your side, you can focus on healing while we handle your case’s legal aspects, including paperwork, investigations, case building, and negotiation.
How to Know If You Have a Valid Dog Bite Case
Under Colorado’s strict liability law, you likely have a valid case if the dog bite caused serious bodily injury, as defined by C.R.S. § 18-1-901. Serious injuries—such as deep puncture wounds, lacerations requiring stitches, infections, or nerve damage—justify legal action for compensation without needing to prove the owner’s negligence.
When pursuing negligence claims beyond strict liability, you need to prove the dog owner knew about the dog’s aggressive tendencies. Showing that the dog previously displayed aggressive behavior or had bitten someone and that the owner was aware of this can strengthen your case.
Additionally, the incident must have occurred in a public space or when you were lawfully on private property (not trespassing). If you were invited onto private property or had a legal right to be there (e.g., postal worker, utility worker), you’re protected under the law.
If your case met these conditions and you have evidence of negligence, you probably have a valid claim. However, if you’re unsure about the validity of your claim, consulting with a lawyer at Boesen Law will provide clarity. We can evaluate your case details, advise on the best legal approach, and guide you through the next steps.
Common Injuries in Dog Bite Incidents
Dog bite victims usually suffer a range of injuries, including:
- Puncture wounds and lacerations
- Facial injuries
- Nerve damage
- Emotional trauma
Some of these injuries can have long-term or even permanent consequences on your life. Pursuing legal action is essential for recovering the financial support needed for medical treatment and rehabilitation, and to address the incident’s impact on your quality of life.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Westminster
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Westminster, act promptly to protect your health and legal rights. Follow these steps:
- Seek immediate medical attention: Even if injuries seem minor, see a healthcare professional to prevent infections and create official records.
- Report the bite: Notify Westminster Animal Control or local law enforcement—they should be the first coming to mind when wondering who to call if a dog bites you.
- Document the incident: Take photos of your injuries, the location, and the dog, if possible. Collect contact information from any present witnesses.
- Avoid discussing fault: Don’t admit fault or discuss liability with the dog’s owner or their insurance representatives. Limit conversations to basic information exchange.
- Contact a Westminster dog bite lawyer: Reach out to Boesen Law to evaluate your case. Early legal involvement will preserve evidence and enhance your claim’s success.
What Compensation Can You Pursue After a Dog Bite?
After a dog bite in Westminster, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical bills: Coverage for both immediate expenses (like emergency room visits) and long-term costs (such as surgeries, medications, and ongoing treatments).
- Lost wages: Compensation for income lost during recovery or diminished earning potential if the injuries impact your ability to work in the future.
- Pain and suffering: Monetary acknowledgment of physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life resulting from the incident.
- Rehabilitation costs: Expenses for physical therapy, occupational therapy, counseling sessions, or other rehabilitation services needed to recover fully.
Certain breeds are statistically linked to higher bite rates. Attacks involving larger or stronger breeds—often listed among the most dangerous dog breeds—tend to result in more severe harm. This can be relevant in legal proceedings, especially when establishing the owner’s knowledge of potential aggression.
Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Cases in Colorado
In Colorado, victims must adhere to specific time limits when filing a dog bite lawsuit. According to C.R.S. § 13-80-102, you have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury claim.
Failing to file within the statute of limitations can result in losing your right to pursue compensation. Consulting with our Westminster dog bite lawyers promptly ensures compliance with legal deadlines and preserves your claim.
Contact a Westminster Dog Bite Lawyer Today
At Boesen Law, our experience is the difference. With decades of experience handling dog bite cases in Colorado, we have what it takes to provide top-notch support and maximize compensation. As shown in our case results, we’ve successfully recovered hundreds of millions for our clients, and we can do the same for you.
Contact Boesen Law today for a free consultation to discuss your case and take the first step toward justice. There are no fees unless we win your case!
Reach out to our law firm for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation today. Call our personal injury lawyers in the state of Colorado at (303) 999-9999 or contact us online.