Denver Dog Bite Lawyer

Dog bites in Denver can be traumatic experiences, often resulting in serious physical injuries, emotional distress, and unexpected financial burdens. Under Colorado’s strict liability dog bite statute, dog owners are responsible for injuries their pets cause, making it crucial to consult a Denver personal injury lawyer who understands local animal control laws.

Our Denver attorney understand the nuances of Colorado’s dog bite laws, including Denver’s specific breed regulations and leash laws for popular areas like Washington Park, City Park, and Cherry Creek Trail.

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Dog bites in Denver and across the Front Range can result in serious physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial hardship. If you or a loved one has been attacked by a dog – whether in a Denver park, on local trails, or in your neighborhood – you need an experienced Denver dog bite lawyer who understands Colorado’s 2025 strict liability laws. At McQuaid Injury Law, we understand the complexities of Denver dog bite cases and are committed to holding negligent pet owners accountable under state law.

Legal representation is crucial due to the nuances of Colorado’s dog bite statute and Denver’s specific breed regulations. Our skilled Denver dog bite attorneys work closely with Denver Animal Protection, local law enforcement, and medical experts to build strong cases. We’ll ensure your case is thoroughly investigated – from dog attacks in Washington Park to incidents in suburban communities. Whether you were bitten on the Cherry Creek Trail, at an off-leash dog park, or in your own backyard, we’ll document your injuries with Denver’s leading medical specialists and vigorously defend your rights in Colorado courts. With our deep understanding of local ordinances and state liability laws, we’ll fight to maximize your compensation while you focus on recovery.

Approximately 94 dog bite incidents occurred in Colorado in 2024.

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Denver is the 18th worst city in the U.S. for dog bites, according to the U.S. Postal Service’s national rankings.
Types of Dog Bite Cases We Handle

Our firm has extensive experience handling a wide range of dog bite cases in Denver, including:

Attacks on private property

When a seemingly friendly neighborhood dog turns violent on its own territory, leaving victims with serious injuries and trauma in what should have been a safe space.

Public space incidents

Unexpected attacks in parks, sidewalks, or other public areas where negligent owners fail to control their dangerous dogs.

Attacks on children

Devastating incidents where innocent children suffer life-changing physical and emotional trauma from dog attacks that often target their face and head.

Multiple dog attacks

Terrifying encounters with packs of aggressive dogs that can result in catastrophic injuries and long-term psychological damage.

Injuries caused by police or service dogs

Complex cases involving specially trained dogs who cause unwarranted injuries, requiring expertise in handling claims against government entities.

Attacks involving negligent pet-sitters or dog walkers

Serious incidents caused by professional caretakers who fail to properly control or manage aggressive dogs in their care.

Injuries sustained while intervening in a dog fight

Traumatic injuries suffered by good Samaritans who attempt to protect others from dangerous dog attacks.

Bites from stray or unleashed dogs

Vicious attacks by uncontrolled dogs whose owners violate leash laws and endanger public safety.

Attacks resulting in scarring or disfigurement

Life-altering injuries that leave permanent physical and emotional scars, often requiring extensive reconstructive surgery and ongoing treatment.

Common Dog Bite Injuries in Denver

Dog bites can result in a variety of injuries, ranging from minor to severe.

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Some common injuries include:

  • Puncture wounds and lacerations
  • Scarring and disfigurement
  • Infections (including rabies and tetanus)
  • Emotional trauma and PTSD
  • Nerve damage
  • Eye injuries
  • Broken bones
  • Amputations (in severe cases)
  • Wrongful death
  • Facial injuries
Why Choose Our Firm

Don’t Be Afraid, Call McQuaid

Our experienced team combines aggressive litigation tactics with compassionate client care to maximize your compensation while supporting you through every step of your recovery journey.

  • 20 years of experience in dog bite litigation
  • Dedicated team of Dog Bite Professionals
  • In-depth knowledge of local and state dog bite laws
  • proven track record of successful settlements and verdicts
  • Personalized attention to every case
  • No fee unless we win your case
  • 24/7 availability for client communication
Lawyer McQuaid with personal injury victim in denver
Handing Check to personal Injury victim in phoenix
Personal Injury attorney Brendan McQuaid
Our Process

From Injury to Justice: 5 Simple Steps

Getting fair compensation after a Denver dog bite is straightforward. Start with a free consultation at our downtown Denver office—we’re available 24/7 to serve victims across the Front Range. Our team will investigate your case anywhere in the metro area, work with Denver Animal Protection to gather incident reports, and handle all Colorado court paperwork while you focus on recovery at Denver’s specialized wound care centers.

We’ll fight aggressively through the Colorado legal system to win your case, whether your attack occurred at Washington Park, along the High Line Canal Trail, or in your Cherry Creek neighborhood. You pay nothing unless we secure your settlement under Colorado’s 2025 dog bite laws. Your path to justice in Denver starts with one call to our 17th Street office, where our experienced dog bite attorneys are ready to protect your rights.

Dial or Text (303) 551-9495 in Colorado or (602) 892-4111 in Arizona to speak with one of our experienced personal injury professionals. We’re here to listen to your story and answer your questions. You can also fill out the contact form to request a free consultation. Provide some basic details about your case, and we’ll get back to you promptly.

Attorney Brendan McQuaid will work on your case, supported by a team of professionals who will work tirelessly to protect your rights. At McQuaid Injury law, you will always speak with an attorney.

Our experienced team will handle the process of filing a personal injury claim with all responsible insurance companies. We’ll investigate your case thoroughly and collect evidence and documentation to support your claim. We’ll negotiate with the insurance company to secure the maximum compensation possible, always striving to reach a fair settlement.

When an insurance settlement offer isn’t fair or your case requires aggressive legal action, we’ll take your fight to court. Our legal team prepares a compelling case, ensuring all the necessary documentation and witnesses are in place. Our experienced trial team will vigorously represent you in court, fighting for your rights and the compensation you deserve.

Our commitment to you is

Maximize Compensation: We’ll strive to secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Brendan McQuaid is a member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, as he has achieved multi-million dollar results for his clients.

Peace of Mind: While we handle the legal complexities, you can focus on your recovery and well-being, knowing your case is in capable hands. achieve the best possible outcome for your case. We’ll work tirelessly to:

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Victories Echoed: What Our Clients Say

Don’t just take our word for it—hear from those we’ve helped. Our clients’ stories of triumph over adversity speak volumes about our dedication and expertise. From life-changing settlements to compassionate support throughout the legal process, these testimonials reflect our unwavering commitment to justice. Discover why so many trust us with their most challenging moments.

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Based on 157 Reviews
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Jose Gomez
Jose Gomez
March 10, 2025

I was rear ended and got push into a truck infront hurt my leg and my back pretty badly and mcquaid help me get back on my feet

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Ismael Rivera
Ismael Rivera
January 29, 2025

You will be satisfied and thankful you hired the dream team, very persistent and will battle for you until the end

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David Reyes
David Reyes
January 14, 2025

I recently had a car accident and sought the help of McQuaid Injury Law. Brenden McQuaid was incredibly supportive and professional throughout the entire process. They handled my case with great expertise and ensured that I received the compensation I deserved. Their dedication and attention to detail made a stressful situation much more manageable. I highly recommend McQuaid Injury Law for anyone needing legal assistance after an accident. Thank you for your outstanding service!"

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Sara Lockhart
Sara Lockhart
January 9, 2025

We are so grateful for Brendan McQuaid and helping us with our son’s injury claim. We are very impressed with his attention to detail and making sure everything was handled correctly and timely.

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Anita Edwards
Anita Edwards
January 9, 2025

Brendan McQuaid and his team have done such an amazing job for my son‘s case. They are attentive, and know exactly how to handle things appropriately. I trust Brendan and would recommend him to anybody!

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Matt Edgar
Matt Edgar
January 3, 2025

Great job!

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George Ressinger
George Ressinger
December 3, 2024

Brendan and his team got me through a difficult process, and got me a good result

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Joe Totten
Joe Totten
November 9, 2024

This past summer I was in a car accident that left me with very serious injuries and ended up in the hospital for 12 days. My medical bills were astronomical, and I was not able to work due to my injuries. I knew I needed help. I reached out to several large law firms, however, they were either too busy or not interested in taking my case. I finally found McQuaid Injury Law where Brendan and his team immediately took me in and started helping me with my situation. I was truly amazed how quick and efficient they were as they settled my case with maximum recovery potential in a short time frame. They took more interest in my case and undoubtedly put forth more effort than any big law firm would have. Brendan McQuaid is a phenomenal attorney and his head Paralegal Richelle was incredible to work with. I could not have made a better choice going with McQuaid Injury Law as my legal counsel!

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Michael Carlaw
Michael Carlaw
October 22, 2024

Got in a car accident this spring. Connected with them through a referral and they handled the case step by step. Very professional and superb communication! Thank you for helping!!

Your Denver Dog Bite Questions Answered

Navigate the road to recovery with confidence as we address the most pressing questions our clients ask after experiencing a dog bite.

If you are bitten by a dog in Denver, CO, here are the immediate steps you should take:

1. Ensure Your Safety

  • Move to a safe location away from the dog to avoid further injury.
  • If the dog is still aggressive, call 911 for immediate assistance.

2. Administer First Aid

  • For minor wounds: Wash the area thoroughly with soap and warm water, apply an antiseptic, and cover it with a clean bandage.
  • For severe wounds: Apply pressure with a clean cloth to stop bleeding and seek medical attention immediately.

3. Seek Medical Attention

  • Visit a doctor or hospital as soon as possible, even if the wound seems minor, to prevent infection or address potential exposure to rabies.
  • Serious injuries may require stitches, antibiotics, or other treatments.

4. Identify the Dog and Owner

  • Obtain the dog owner’s contact information and ask about the dog’s vaccination history, especially for rabies.
  • If the owner is uncooperative or unknown, report this to authorities.

5. Report the Incident

  • Colorado law requires all animal bites to be reported within 12 hours. In Denver, contact Denver Animal Protection at 720-913-2080 or file a report online.
  • Reporting is crucial for public safety and to verify the dog’s vaccination status.

6. Document the Incident

  • Take photos of your injuries and the scene of the bite.
  • Collect witness statements and their contact information if available.

7. Consult Legal Assistance

  • If you wish to pursue compensation for medical bills or other damages, consult an experienced dog bite attorney in Denver. They can guide you through legal processes and help protect your rights.

By following these steps promptly, you can safeguard your health and ensure compliance with local regulations.

In Colorado, liability for a dog bite typically falls under strict liability and negligence rules, depending on the circumstances:

1. Dog Owners

  • Strict Liability: Under Colorado Revised Statutes §13-21-124, dog owners are strictly liable for serious bodily injuries or death caused by their dogs, regardless of the dog’s prior behavior or the owner’s knowledge of any aggressive tendencies. This applies if:
  • The victim was lawfully on public or private property.
  • The injury meets the definition of “serious bodily injury,” such as permanent disfigurement, fractures, or substantial risk of death.
  • Negligence Claims: If the injury is not classified as “serious,” victims may still pursue a negligence claim by proving the owner failed to control or restrain their dog.

2. Property Owners or Landlords

  • Property owners or landlords can share liability if they knew a tenant’s dog was dangerous and failed to take reasonable steps to mitigate the risk, such as enforcing leash rules or requiring fencing.

3. Third Parties

  • A third party who had control over the dog at the time of the bite (e.g., a pet sitter) may be held liable if their actions contributed to the incident, such as failing to leash the dog in public.

4. Exceptions to Liability

  • Dog owners may not be held liable if:
  • The victim provoked the dog.
  • The dog was working (e.g., police or military dogs performing duties).
  • The victim was trespassing or unlawfully on private property.

Colorado’s strict liability laws aim to protect victims while emphasizing responsible pet ownership.

In Colorado, the compensation you can receive for a dog bite injury depends on the severity of your injuries and the type of claim filed. Here’s an overview of potential compensation:

1. Economic Damages (Strict Liability)

Under Colorado’s strict liability law, if the dog bite caused serious bodily injury, you are entitled to economic damages without needing to prove the owner’s negligence. These damages include:

  • Medical expenses: Current and future costs for treatment, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
  • Lost wages: Compensation for missed work due to the injury.
  • Loss of earning capacity: If the injury impacts your ability to work in the future.
  • Household services: Reimbursement for services you can no longer perform due to your injuries.

2. Non-Economic Damages (Negligence Claims)

To recover non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, or loss of enjoyment of life, you must prove the dog owner was negligent. This could involve showing that:

  • The dog had a history of aggression or prior incidents.
  • The owner failed to take reasonable precautions to prevent the attack.

3. Additional Factors Affecting Compensation

The settlement amount can vary based on:

  • Severity of injuries: Serious injuries like fractures, disfigurement, or long-term impairments typically result in higher compensation.
  • Impact on quality of life: Emotional trauma or permanent scars may increase damages.
  • Age of the victim: For example, children may be compensated for long-term effects on their development and well-being.

4. Filing a Claim

You may pursue compensation through:

  • The dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy.
  • A personal injury lawsuit if negligence is involved.

Consulting an experienced attorney is crucial to ensure you receive fair compensation tailored to your specific circumstances.

Yes, homeowners insurance typically covers dog bites in Colorado in 2025. Most standard homeowners insurance policies include liability coverage that can protect dog owners if their pet bites someone. Here are key points to understand:

Coverage Details

  • Homeowners insurance policies often cover dog bite incidents under personal liability protection.
  • This coverage usually applies both on and off the property, such as during walks or at parks.
  • The policy may cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from a dog bite.

Limitations

  • Coverage is subject to policy limits, which are typically $100,000 to $300,000.
  • Some insurers may have breed restrictions or exclude coverage for dogs with a history of aggression.
  • Family members living in the home are usually not covered under this protection.

Filing a Claim

  • If a dog bite occurs, the owner should document the incident and contact their insurance company promptly.
  • The insurance company will assign an adjuster to handle the claim and determine coverage.

Additional Considerations

  • Some insurers recommend increasing liability coverage to $300,000 or $500,000 for better protection.
  • Dog owners may want to consider umbrella policies for additional liability coverage beyond their homeowners insurance limits.

It’s important for Colorado dog owners to review their specific policies and consult with their insurance providers to understand the exact coverage and any limitations regarding dog bites in 2025.

If the dog that bit you in Colorado does not have a history of aggression, the owner can still be held liable under the state’s strict liability law. Here’s how it works:

Strict Liability

  • Colorado does not follow the “one-bite rule,” which gives leniency to owners if their dog has no prior history of aggression.
  • Under Colorado Revised Statute §13-21-124, dog owners are automatically liable for injuries caused by their dog, regardless of whether the dog has ever bitten someone or shown signs of aggression before.
  • This applies specifically to cases where the bite results in serious bodily injury, such as fractures, disfigurement, or injuries that pose a substantial risk of death.

Negligence Claims

  • If your injuries are not classified as “serious bodily injury,” you may still file a negligence claim against the owner. In this case, you would need to prove that:
  • The owner failed to take reasonable precautions to prevent the bite (e.g., failing to leash the dog in public).
  • This failure directly caused your injuries.

Exceptions

The owner might not be held liable if:

  • You provoked the dog.
  • You were trespassing on private property.
  • The dog was working in an official capacity (e.g., police or military dogs).

Even without a history of aggression, Colorado law ensures that victims can seek compensation for their injuries through strict liability or negligence claims.

In Colorado, you have two years from the date of the dog bite to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for your injuries. This deadline is governed by the state’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims. If you fail to file your claim within this two-year time frame, the court will likely dismiss your case, and you will lose the right to pursue compensation.

The clock typically starts on the day of the injury. However, exceptions may apply in rare cases, such as if the injury was not immediately apparent or if the victim is a minor. For minors, the statute of limitations may be extended until they turn 18, giving them additional time to file.

To ensure you meet this deadline and protect your rights, it’s advisable to consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible after the incident.

Hiring a dog bite lawyer in Colorado typically involves no upfront costs. Most dog bite attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Contingency Fee Percentage

  • The lawyer’s fee is usually a percentage of the settlement or court award, commonly ranging from 35% to 42%.
  • The exact percentage may depend on the complexity of the case or whether it goes to trial.

2. Free Initial Consultation

  • Many Colorado dog bite lawyers offer a free consultation to evaluate your case and determine its viability.

3. No Recovery, No Fee

  • If the lawyer does not win your case, you typically owe them nothing for their services.

4. Additional Costs

  • While the contingency fee covers the lawyer’s payment, there may be additional costs for things like filing fees, expert witnesses, or investigation expenses. These costs are often deducted from the settlement after the case is resolved.

This payment structure ensures that victims can access legal representation without financial risk upfront. It’s advisable to discuss all terms with your attorney during the initial consultation to understand their fee structure fully.

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