Even though many people look at pets as members of the family, some animals can be unpredictable. In some cases, this could result in a dog bite. Dog bites can lead to significant injuries, and some of them can lead to permanent complications. After you have been bitten by a dog, you need to see a doctor as quickly as possible. Then, reach out to our experienced personal injury attorneys at Ridder Law for a case review at (720) 812-1047.
Owners are responsible for their dogs. If you own a dog, you must make sure it is on a leash when it is out in public, that your dog is properly trained, and that it is not a threat to other people.
If you are bitten by a dog, then the owner of that dog should be held responsible for your injuries. You need to get your injuries treated as quickly as possible, but you also need a lawyer who can review your case. We can help you do exactly that.
Talk to a Local Aurora Dog Bite Injury Lawyer Today
Ridder Law is dedicated to supporting Colorado families through some of the hardest moments of their lives. If you or a loved one was injured in a dog bite accident in Aurora, contact us 24/7 for a free case review at (720) 812-1047.
What Should You Do Following an Aurora Dog Bite?
If you have been bitten by a dog, there are several steps you need to follow. They include:
1. Call Animal Control Immediately
You should always call animal control as quickly as possible to alert them to the attack. Make sure you answer all of their questions.
2. Seek Medical Treatment Right Away
You need to see a doctor as quickly as possible. If you cannot get yourself to the emergency room, call 911 so medical professionals can assist you.
3. Request Your Medical Records
After you are done with the doctor, make sure to ask for a copy of your medical records. These documents are important evidence for supporting your injury claim.
4. Contact Ridder Law for a Case Review
Reach out to Ridder Law as soon as possible. Dog bite cases may have strict deadlines, and we need time to evaluate the details of your situation.
Let our team help you following a dog bite injury.
Injured by a Dog in Aurora?
Our legal team is ready to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve after a dog bite attack.
Contact UsColorado Laws on Aurora Dog Bite Incidents
Colorado Revised Statutes section 13-21-124 establishes the rules for civil actions against dog owners. That means it is the law that governs whether you can sue the dog’s owner after a bite incident.
Under this law, “A person or a personal representative of a person who suffers serious bodily injury or death from being bitten by a dog while lawfully on public or private property shall be entitled to bring a civil action to recover economic damages against the dog owner regardless of the viciousness or dangerous propensities of the dog or the dog owner’s knowledge or lack of knowledge of the dog’s viciousness or dangerous propensities.”
This rule is called a strict liability rule. It means that it does not matter if the dog was ever violent or aggressive in the past, or if the owner had reason to know that the dog was likely to bite. This is distinct from the rules in some other states, where dog owners will not be liable unless they had reason to know their dog could cause harm. Those states are said to have a “one bite rule.”
Since dog owners are strictly liable for your losses, you should be able to recover compensation as long as you were lawfully on the property and did not provoke the dog or ignore no trespassing signs to enter into a space where you did not belong.
It’s still important to have an experienced attorney representing you, though, as you will need evidence about how and when the bite happened, as well as proof of the extent of your losses and damages.
Many insurance companies representing dog owners try to underpay for these types of claims or try to deny liability in cases where it is clear that compensation for losses is appropriate. Ridder Law is ready to stand up to these insurance companies for you and to fight for the justice you deserve.
Are You Entitled to Compensation From a Dog Bite in Aurora?
The costs of care after a dog bite can sometimes be very high, especially if you require multiple plastic surgeries as a result of disfiguring injuries. You should be entitled to have all of your medical expenses paid. The owner’s insurance policy should cover your medical expenses.
In addition to payment of your medical costs, you may be entitled to other compensation as well. This can include payment for:
- Lost wages if any injuries cause you to miss time from work or to take sick leave, or if the bite injuries affect future earning potential on an ongoing basis
- Pain and suffering, as bite injuries can often be excruciating.
- Compensation for reduced quality of life. If you experience permanent disfigurement, this can also change your life in adverse ways. You should be paid fair compensation for the change to your appearance.
- Emotional distress damages. Many people experience lasting mental harm after a dog bite attack. You may have post-traumatic stress disorder and relive the incident, or you could develop anxiety around dogs or depression due to your injuries and the change in your lifestyle.
While you should be paid for all of these losses, unfortunately, these cases are usually contested. That is why you need to reach out to a dog bite lawyer in Aurora who can assist you. At Ridder Law, we can help you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Aurora Dog Bites
Should I hire an Aurora dog bite attorney for a minor dog bite?
You may want to speak with an attorney after a minor dog bite if the bite broke the skin, required medical care, left scarring, became infected, or involved a dangerous dog. Even injuries that seem minor at first can become more serious over time. An attorney can explain whether you may have a claim and what steps to take next.
What evidence is required in Aurora dog bite claims?
Helpful evidence in a dog bite claim may include photos of the injury, medical records, animal control reports, witness statements, the dog owner’s information, proof of where the bite happened, and any history of the dog acting aggressively. This evidence can help show how the bite occurred and how seriously you were harmed.
What services do Aurora dog bite attorneys offer?
Aurora dog bite attorneys can investigate the incident, identify the dog owner or responsible party, collect evidence, communicate with insurance companies, calculate damages, negotiate a settlement, and file a lawsuit if needed. Their goal is to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation for your injuries.
When should I contact an Aurora dog bite attorney after a dog bite?
You should contact an attorney as soon as possible after a dog bite, especially if you needed medical treatment, missed work, suffered scarring, or the dog owner or insurance company is disputing responsibility. Getting legal help early can make it easier to preserve evidence and avoid mistakes with the claim.
How do dog bite cases proceed legally in Aurora?
A dog bite case usually begins with medical treatment, reporting the bite, gathering evidence, and identifying available insurance coverage. The attorney may then file an insurance claim and negotiate for compensation. If the insurance company does not offer a fair settlement, the attorney may file a lawsuit and prepare the case for court.
How much do Aurora dog bite attorney fees cost?
Many dog bite attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not pay upfront attorney fees, and the attorney is paid a percentage of the compensation they recover for you. If there is no recovery, you typically do not owe attorney fees.
Contact Our Aurora Dog Bite Attorney Today
We are Ridder Law, and we always put the needs of our clients ahead of our own. Make sure you see a doctor as quickly as possible following a dog bite injury, and then reach out to us for a case review. Allow our team to review your case to see if you are entitled to compensation. Contact us today at (720) 812-1047 to speak to our team.
Serving Aurora and Communities Across the Denver Metro Area
Ridder Law represents injured individuals and families throughout Aurora and the surrounding Denver metro area. Our Colorado-based legal team understands the local roads, neighborhoods, courts, medical facilities, and public agencies that may become important after a serious accident.
Aurora Neighborhoods We Serve
Our Aurora personal injury attorneys help accident victims throughout the city, including neighborhoods near I-225, East Colfax Avenue, South Parker Road, East Alameda Avenue, E-470, and Havana Street.
- Aurora City Center
- Aurora Highlands
- Heather Gardens
- Meadow Hills
- Mission Viejo
- Murphy Creek
- Saddle Rock
- Seven Hills
- Southlands
- Tallyn’s Reach
- Tollgate Crossing
- Anschutz Medical Campus Area
Communities Surrounding Aurora
Ridder Law also represents injured clients throughout Arapahoe County, Adams County, Douglas County, and other communities across the greater Denver metropolitan area.
- Centennial
- Parker
- Denver
- Commerce City
- Greenwood Village
- Englewood
- Littleton
- Castle Rock
- Lakewood
- Arvada
- Thornton
- Highlands Ranch
Helpful Aurora Accident Resources
Find directions to local police stations, courts, and emergency medical facilities that may be helpful following an accident in Aurora.
Aurora, CO 80045 View on Google Maps → Police Station Aurora Police District 2 6 Abilene St.
Aurora, CO 80011 View on Google Maps → Police Station Aurora Police District 3 23911 E. Arapahoe Road
Aurora, CO 80016 View on Google Maps → Courthouse Aurora Municipal Court 14999 E. Alameda Parkway
Aurora, CO 80012 View on Google Maps → Hospital UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital 12605 E. 16th Avenue
Aurora, CO 80045 View on Google Maps → Hospital HCA HealthONE Aurora 1501 S. Potomac St.
Aurora, CO 80012 View on Google Maps →