A dog just attacked. Maybe it happened at a neighbor's house, a park, or right on the sidewalk. The heart is hammering, adrenaline is flooding the system, and the focus is on torn skin and uncertainty about severity. This scenario plays out far too often—the CDC reports approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur annually in the United States. In Colorado, dog bite victims have significant legal protections. Under C.R.S. § 13-21-124, dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries caused by their animals, meaning the victim doesn't need to prove negligence or prior dangerous behavior. The financial impact can be substantial; the Insurance Information Institute reported that the average dog bite claim reached $58,545 in 2023. Beyond medical expenses, victims may face ongoing treatment, scarring, psychological trauma, and lost wages. Understanding these legal protections and the true cost of dog bite injuries is essential for anyone navigating recovery and potential compensation.

Take a breath. Then take these steps—in this order. What happens in the next 24–48 hours will determine both medical outcomes and the strength of any legal claim that may need to be pursued. Dog bites are more common than many realize, with the CDC reporting approximately 4.5 million incidents annually across the United States. Colorado law provides important protections for bite victims, particularly under strict liability statutes codified in C.R.S. § 13-21-124, which holds dog owners responsible for serious injuries regardless of the animal's prior behavior. The financial impact of these incidents can be substantial—the Insurance Information Institute reported that the average dog bite claim reached $58,545 in 2023. Immediate actions such as documenting injuries, obtaining witness information, seeking medical attention, and reporting the incident to local animal control create a critical foundation for both recovery and any potential legal action. These early steps preserve evidence and establish a documented record essential to protecting one's rights.

Step 1: Get Safe and Stop the Bleeding

When a dog attack occurs, the immediate priority is separation. The victim should move away from the animal without attempting to physically restrain it—that responsibility belongs to animal control professionals. Getting to a safe location is essential before anything else. Once secure, the next step is to carefully assess the wound for severity and extent of injury. According to the CDC, approximately 4.5 million dog bites happen annually in the United States, making this a common but serious concern. In Colorado, victims of dog bites resulting in serious injuries have legal protections under strict liability statutes, specifically C.R.S. § 13-21-124, which holds dog owners responsible for damages regardless of the animal's prior behavior or the owner's negligence. The average dog bite claim reached $58,545 in 2023, according to the Insurance Information Institute, reflecting the significant medical and recovery costs involved. Proper wound assessment during this critical first phase can help determine whether immediate medical attention is necessary.

For immediate first aid:

Apply firm pressure with a clean cloth to stop bleeding
If the wound is deep, gaping, or won’t stop bleeding after 10 minutes of pressure—go to the ER
If the bite is on the face, neck, or hands—go to the ER (these areas have critical structures close to the surface)
If a child was bitten—go to the ER

Even if the wound looks manageable, professional medical evaluation is essential. Dog bites introduce bacteria deep into tissue layers—infections are remarkably common and can escalate into life-threatening conditions within hours or days. According to the CDC, approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur annually in the United States, yet many victims delay seeking care because initial injuries appear minor. This hesitation can prove costly, both medically and legally. Puncture wounds from canine teeth create ideal environments for bacterial growth, particularly from Pasteurella and Staphylococcus species. Even small-looking bites may require antibiotics, tetanus updates, or rabies prophylaxis. In Colorado, dog bite injuries fall under strict liability statutes (C.R.S. § 13-21-124), meaning owners are legally responsible for damages regardless of the dog's prior behavior. Average dog bite claims reached $58,545 in 2023, reflecting the serious nature of these injuries. Prompt medical attention protects both health and legal standing.

Step 2: Identify the Dog and Its Owner

This is critical for both your medical care and your legal rights. You need to know:

The owner’s name and contact information
The dog’s vaccination history—specifically rabies vaccination status
The dog’s breed and description
Where the dog lives

If the owner is present, ask directly for their information. Most people are sufficiently shaken by the incident that they'll cooperate. However, if they refuse to identify themselves or attempt to leave the scene, documentation becomes critical. Photograph the owner, the dog, their vehicle, and the license plate—every detail matters for a potential claim. With approximately 4.5 million dog bites occurring annually in the United States according to the CDC, establishing clear liability is essential. Colorado's strict liability statute, C.R.S. § 13-21-124, holds dog owners responsible for injuries caused by their animals, even without prior knowledge of dangerous behavior. This legal framework protects victims, as evidenced by the average dog-bite insurance claim reaching $58,545 in 2023. Gathering identifying information at the scene strengthens any subsequent claim and ensures the responsible party cannot dispute their involvement. Complete documentation creates a solid foundation for pursuing compensation and holding negligent owners accountable.

If the dog was a stray or the owner is unknown, document every physical detail: breed, color, size, collar type, and exact location where the bite occurred. This information is crucial because animal control uses these descriptions to locate and quarantine the dog for rabies testing—a medical necessity that directly influences treatment protocols and post-exposure prophylaxis decisions. With approximately 4.5 million dog bites reported annually in the United States, proper identification becomes essential for public health and legal purposes. In Colorado, dog owners face strict liability for serious injuries under C.R.S. § 13-21-124, meaning liability can be established even without negligence proof. When the owner cannot be identified, detailed physical descriptions help authorities track dangerous animals and prevent future incidents. Additionally, these records strengthen injury claims. Dog bite settlements averaged $58,545 in 2023, and comprehensive documentation of the animal's description supports damage calculations. Photographs of the dog and bite injuries, combined with detailed descriptions, create a stronger evidentiary foundation for potential compensation cases.

Step 3: Call Animal Control

Reporting the bite to local animal control is a crucial step following any dog attack. The CDC reports that approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur annually in the United States, making this a significant public health concern. In Denver, contact Denver Animal Protection directly at (720) 913-1311 to file an official report. Residents in other Colorado jurisdictions should call their local non-emergency police line, and dispatchers will direct the call to the appropriate animal control agency. Official documentation of the incident creates an important record that protects both the victim and the community. Under Colorado Revised Statutes § 13-21-124, dog owners face strict liability for serious injuries caused by their animals, meaning the victim may pursue compensation regardless of the dog's prior behavior. Given that the average dog bite claim reached $58,545 in 2023 according to the Insurance Information Institute, proper reporting ensures all necessary evidence is collected to support a potential personal injury claim.

An animal control report creates an official government record of the attack, establishing powerful evidence that strengthens any personal injury claim. This documentation is crucial because it captures what happened while details remain fresh in witnesses' minds, triggers a mandatory investigation into the incident, and initiates a mandatory 10-day rabies quarantine for the dog. With approximately 4.5 million dog bites occurring annually across the United States, according to the CDC, having an official record becomes invaluable. Under Colorado's strict liability statute, C.R.S. § 13-21-124, dog owners are liable for injuries caused by their animals, and the animal control report provides essential documentation to support claims. The average dog bite settlement reached $58,545 in 2023, making the thoroughness of this initial report critical. Animal control officers document the dog's behavior, the victim's injuries, witness statements, and the circumstances of the attack—all elements that significantly impact the outcome of personal injury claims and insurance negotiations.

Without an official animal control report, the insurance company will later argue the bite was exaggerated, the dog was provoked, or that the incident never happened the way described. The official report eliminates these common defenses before they start. According to the CDC, approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur annually in the United States, yet many go unreported—a mistake that weakens injury claims. Colorado law provides significant protections under C.R.S. § 13-21-124, which establishes strict liability for serious injuries caused by dog bites. This means the dog owner can be held responsible even without proof of negligence. However, insurance adjusters exploit missing documentation to minimize settlements. The average dog bite claim reached $58,545 in 2023, according to the Insurance Information Institute. An animal control report creates an independent, contemporaneous record that corroborates the victim's account, establishes the dog's involvement, and documents the severity of injuries. This documentation becomes invaluable evidence when pursuing fair compensation.

Step 4: Document Everything

Your phone is your best friend right now. Before cleaning up, bandaging the wound, or allowing swelling to obscure the injury, photograph everything. The Centers for Disease Control reports that approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur annually in the United States, making thorough documentation critical. Clear photos establish liability and strengthen any future claim. Capture multiple angles of the bite wounds, surrounding bruising, and any torn clothing. Document the scene where the attack occurred, including the dog's location and any visible behavioral signs. These images serve as crucial evidence, particularly under Colorado's strict liability statute, C.R.S. § 13-21-124, which holds dog owners responsible for serious injuries caused by their animals. Insurance data shows the average dog bite claim reached $58,545 in 2023. Visual evidence significantly impacts settlement negotiations and potential litigation outcomes. Time-stamped photographs create an objective record that memories cannot provide once initial shock subsides.

Photograph the Injury

Close-ups of every wound from multiple angles
Wide shots showing the location on your body
Include something for scale (your hand, a coin)
Make sure the timestamp is on

Take photos every day as the wound progresses—healing, bruising, swelling, and scarring. A visual timeline of the injury is some of the most compelling evidence in a dog bite case. With over 4.5 million dog bites occurring annually in the United States, according to the CDC, the documentation process becomes critical for distinguishing legitimate claims from disputed ones. Juries respond to photographs more persuasively than any medical record alone. Under Colorado's strict liability statute, C.R.S. § 13-21-124, dog owners are responsible for serious injuries regardless of the animal's prior behavior. Visual evidence strengthens these claims considerably. The average dog bite settlement reached $58,545 in 2023, according to the Insurance Information Institute, yet comprehensive photographic documentation often influences whether cases settle favorably or require litigation. Clear, dated images showing the injury's progression provide objective proof of severity, pain, and scarring—factors juries use to assess damages.

Photograph the Scene

Where the attack happened
The dog (if safe to do so)
Any “Beware of Dog” signs (or lack thereof)
Fencing, gates, leashes (or lack thereof)
Torn clothing, blood on the ground

Get Witness Information

If anyone witnessed the attack, obtain their name and phone number immediately. Witness testimony corroborating the victim's version of events is invaluable—especially if the dog owner later tries to claim the victim provoked the animal. With approximately 4.5 million dog bites occurring annually in the United States, according to the CDC, witness accounts become critical evidence in establishing liability. Under Colorado's strict liability statute, C.R.S. § 13-21-124, owners are responsible for injuries caused by their dogs, but disputes often arise regarding circumstances surrounding the incident. Witness statements can definitively support claims and counter owner defenses. The average dog bite claim settled for $58,545 in 2023, according to the Insurance Information Institute, making thorough documentation essential. Multiple independent witnesses strengthen a claim substantially, providing credible third-party perspectives that carry significant weight during settlement negotiations or litigation. Collect contact information from everyone present at the scene, as their recollections may prove decisive in securing fair compensation for serious injuries.

Step 5: Get Medical Treatment (And Don’t Downplay It)

Go to the ER or urgent care that day. Not tomorrow. Not “if it gets worse.” Today.

Here’s why this matters beyond the obvious health reasons:

Infection risk is real. Dog mouths carry pasteurella, staphylococcus, streptococcus, and capnocytophaga bacteria. An untreated dog bite can develop into cellulitis, abscess, sepsis, or MRSA within 24–48 hours.
Delayed treatment kills claims. Insurance companies will argue that if you didn’t seek immediate medical care, the injury wasn’t that serious. A same-day medical record establishes the baseline severity.
Rabies evaluation. If the dog’s vaccination status is unknown, you may need post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). This is time-sensitive—rabies is nearly 100% fatal once symptoms appear.

When seeing a doctor after a dog bite, it's essential to describe every symptom comprehensively and honestly. Don't minimize or downplay any physical or emotional effects. If experiencing shaking, anxiety, insomnia, or intrusive thoughts, these must be documented. Psychological trauma from a dog attack is a legitimate, fully compensable injury under Colorado law, particularly given the state's strict liability statute, C.R.S. § 13-21-124, which protects victims of serious injuries. Medical documentation from day one is critical for any potential claim. The CDC reports approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur annually in the United States, with average settlements reaching $58,545 in 2023 according to the Insurance Information Institute. Courts and insurance adjusters rely heavily on contemporaneous medical records to assess injury severity and validate compensation requests. Thorough documentation of all symptoms—physical, emotional, and behavioral—establishes a clear record that strengthens the victim's position and ensures nothing is overlooked during the claims process.

Step 6: Don’t Talk to the Owner’s Insurance Company

At some point—usually within a few days—the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance company will call you. They’ll sound friendly, sympathetic, helpful. They’ll ask for a “recorded statement.”

Do not give one.

Everything said to the owner's insurance company will be scrutinized and analyzed for anything that can be used to reduce or deny the claim. Innocent statements become distorted evidence against the victim. "The dog seemed friendly at first" gets reframed as "she approached a dog she knew was unpredictable." "I'm feeling a little better today" transforms into "she admitted her injuries resolved quickly." These misrepresentations happen regularly in the 4.5 million dog bites reported annually to the CDC. With average dog bite claims reaching $58,545 in 2023, according to the Insurance Information Institute, insurance adjusters have strong financial incentive to minimize payouts. Colorado's strict liability statute, C.R.S. § 13-21-124, protects bite victims by holding owners responsible for serious injuries regardless of the dog's prior behavior. However, statements made directly to the insurer can undermine this legal protection. Insurance companies employ skilled adjusters trained to twist words and create doubt about injury severity.

Politely decline any requests for a statement or recorded conversation. The property owner's insurance company is not a neutral party—their goal is to minimize payouts, not to ensure fair compensation. Tell them the focus right now is on medical treatment and recovery, and that all future communication will happen through an attorney. This is especially important given the severity of dog bite incidents. The CDC reports approximately 4.5 million dog bites annually in the United States, with serious cases resulting in substantial claims. In 2023, the average dog bite claim reached $58,545 according to the Insurance Information Institute. Colorado law provides important protections for bite victims. Under C.R.S. § 13-21-124, strict liability applies to serious injuries caused by dogs, meaning the owner is responsible even without proof of negligence. An experienced personal injury attorney can navigate these protections and help maximize recovery.

Step 7: Talk to a Dog Bite Attorney

Dog bite cases in Colorado involve specific statutes, insurance coverage questions, and potential multiple defendants including the owner, landlord, property manager, and dog walker. With approximately 4.5 million dog bites occurring annually across the United States, these incidents represent a significant personal injury concern. Under Colorado's strict liability statute, C.R.S. § 13-21-124, dog owners can be held responsible for injuries caused by their animals, particularly in cases involving serious harm. An experienced dog bite attorney understands the complexities of these claims and can navigate multiple liable parties, identify applicable insurance policies, and build a compelling case for compensation. The average dog bite claim reached $58,545 in 2023, according to the Insurance Information Institute, reflecting the substantial medical costs and damages involved. A qualified lawyer will investigate the incident thoroughly, gather evidence, communicate with insurance carriers, and advocate for fair settlement or litigation when necessary.

Determine whether strict liability or negligence applies to your case
Identify all liable parties and their insurance coverage
Handle all communication with the insurance company
Ensure your claim accounts for future medical needs and scarring
Deal with animal control and any dangerous dog proceedings

At Conduit Law, dog bite consultations are completely free, and the firm works on a contingency basis—meaning clients pay nothing unless the attorney recovers compensation. This approach removes financial barriers for victims seeking justice. With over 4.5 million dog bites occurring annually in the United States according to CDC data, legal representation has become increasingly important. Colorado's strict liability statute, C.R.S. § 13-21-124, holds dog owners responsible for serious injuries caused by their animals, even without proof of negligence. Average dog bite claims reached $58,545 in 2023, according to the Insurance Information Institute, reflecting the substantial damages victims often face. An experienced dog bite attorney can navigate Colorado's legal framework, evaluate claim value, and negotiate with insurance companies. The contingency fee arrangement ensures that legal costs don't prevent injured parties from pursuing rightful compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

What NOT to Do After a Dog Bite

A few mistakes can seriously damage your case:

Don’t apologize or say it was your fault. Adrenaline makes people say weird things. “I shouldn’t have tried to pet him” sounds like an admission of provocation.
Don’t accept a cash offer from the owner. Homeowners sometimes panic and offer to pay your medical bills directly to avoid an insurance claim. This almost always ends badly—they underestimate the costs, stop paying, and you’ve lost leverage.
Don’t post about it on social media. The insurance company will find your posts. A photo of you smiling at dinner the night after the attack becomes evidence that you “weren’t that hurt.”
Don’t wait to get medical treatment. Every day you delay weakens both your health and your claim.
Don’t sign anything from the insurance company without attorney review. Especially a medical release—they’ll use it to fish through your entire medical history for pre-existing conditions to blame.

Special Considerations for Children

Children account for the majority of serious dog bite injuries, and they're most often bitten in the face and head. According to the CDC, approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur annually in the United States, with children representing a disproportionate share of severe cases. Young victims face particular vulnerability due to their size, inability to recognize dangerous situations, and unpredictable interactions with dogs. Facial and head injuries in children can result in permanent scarring, disfigurement, and psychological trauma requiring extensive medical treatment and therapy. Colorado law recognizes the severity of dog bite injuries to children. Under C.R.S. § 13-21-124, dog owners are held strictly liable for serious injuries caused by their animals, meaning liability exists regardless of the dog's prior behavior or the owner's negligence. The average dog bite claim settlement reached $58,545 in 2023, according to the Insurance Information Institute, reflecting the substantial medical and emotional costs involved in child bite cases.

ER visit is non-negotiable—always
Document the emotional impact—nightmares, fear of dogs, behavioral changes
Consider therapy early—childhood dog attack trauma can be long-lasting
Keep every medical record and school absence report
Take photos of scarring over time—children’s scars change as they grow

Dog bite cases involving children typically result in significantly higher settlements due to multiple compounding factors. According to the CDC, approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur annually in the United States, with children representing a particularly vulnerable population. The severity of facial injuries in pediatric cases is often more pronounced, requiring extensive reconstructive procedures and multiple surgeries throughout childhood and adolescence. Beyond physical trauma, courts recognize the substantial long-term psychological impact—including fear of animals, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress—that can affect a child's development and social interactions. Juries demonstrate considerable sympathy toward injured children, reflecting the broader legal principle that young victims warrant enhanced protection. Colorado law reinforces this protection through strict liability statutes under C.R.S. § 13-21-124, which holds dog owners responsible for serious injuries regardless of the animal's prior behavior. The average dog bite claim settled at $58,545 in 2023, though pediatric cases frequently exceed this figure substantially when accounting for future medical needs and psychological treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I go to the ER for a dog bite even if it doesn’t look bad?

Yes. Dog bites introduce bacteria deep into tissue through puncture wounds, even when the injury appears minor on the surface. Infections can develop rapidly and become serious within 24–48 hours, potentially leading to complications like cellulitis or sepsis. Additionally, same-day medical documentation is critical evidence for any legal claim. The CDC reports approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur annually in the United States, underscoring how common these injuries are. Under Colorado's strict liability statute, C.R.S. § 13-21-124, dog owners are responsible for injuries caused by their animals, regardless of the dog's prior behavior or the owner's negligence. Medical records from an emergency room visit establish an official timeline and professional assessment of injury severity, which strengthens any potential claim. Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety data shows the average dog bite claim settled for $58,545 in 2023. Emergency care protects both health and legal interests.

What if the dog owner is my neighbor or friend?

Their homeowner's insurance is designed to handle exactly this situation. Filing a claim doesn't mean suing the neighbor or friend personally—it means their insurance company pays for the damage their dog caused. That's literally what they pay premiums for. With approximately 4.5 million dog bites occurring annually in the United States according to the CDC, homeowner's insurance policies specifically account for these incidents. The average dog bite claim reached $58,545 in 2023, underscoring why insurers build this coverage into their policies. Colorado law recognizes the serious nature of dog injuries through strict liability statutes. Under C.R.S. § 13-21-124, dog owners are held responsible for injuries their animals cause, even without negligence. This legal framework exists precisely to protect injured parties while allowing insurance to handle the financial burden. The policy exists for this exact purpose, making the claims process a standard part of how homeowners protect themselves financially.

How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Colorado?

In Colorado, the statute of limitations for dog bite claims depends on the type of claim pursued. For strict liability claims under C.R.S. § 13-21-124, which applies to serious injuries, owners bear responsibility regardless of the dog's prior behavior—the filing deadline is 2 years from the date of the incident. For negligence claims, claimants have 3 years to file. According to the CDC, approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur annually across the United States, with Colorado seeing its share of these incidents. The average personal injury settlement for dog bite claims reached $58,545 in 2023, according to the Insurance Information Institute. However, waiting to file can significantly weaken a case. Evidence deteriorates, witness memories fade, and medical records become harder to obtain. Acting promptly preserves crucial documentation, photographic evidence, and witness statements while details remain fresh. The sooner an injured party initiates the claims process, the stronger the foundation for recovery becomes.

What if I was bitten by a stray or unknown dog?

Report the bite to animal control immediately—they can help track the dog for rabies testing and prevent further incidents. If the dog's owner can't be identified, the victim's own health insurance may cover initial medical expenses. Uninsured motorist coverage could also apply if the bite occurred while in or near a vehicle. According to the CDC, approximately 4.5 million dog bites happen annually in the United States, with serious injuries often resulting in substantial claims. Under Colorado's strict liability statute, C.R.S. § 13-21-124, dog owners are liable for damages caused by their animals, even without proof of negligence. The average dog bite claim reached $58,545 in 2023, according to the Insurance Information Institute. An experienced personal injury attorney can help identify all available insurance coverage, navigate the claims process, and ensure full compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering resulting from the attack.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult with an attorney for advice regarding your specific situation.

A dog bite is scary, painful, and overwhelming. But the steps taken immediately afterward can significantly impact recovery and legal outcomes. The CDC reports approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur annually in the United States, with serious injuries often resulting in substantial claims. In 2023, the average dog bite claim reached $58,545, underscoring the financial burden victims face. For stray or unknown dog incidents, documentation is critical. Photograph injuries, gather witness information, and seek immediate medical attention. Colorado's strict liability statute, C.R.S. § 13-21-124, holds dog owners responsible for serious injuries caused by their animals, even without proof of prior dangerous behavior. Before contacting any insurance company or accepting settlement offers, consulting with a legal professional is essential. An experienced attorney can evaluate the case, explain rights under Colorado law, and pursue fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Early legal guidance protects victims' interests during this vulnerable time.

What to Do After a Dog Bite in CO | Conduit Law