Silverthorne Attorneys | Practice Areas

Dog Bites

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Dog Bites

Dog Bites Are Traumatic—You Deserve Real Support

For many, dogs are trusted companions. But when a dog attacks, the physical and emotional wounds can last long after the bite itself. From children playing in their neighborhood to adults out for a walk, anyone can be the victim of a sudden dog bite or animal attack. The pain, fear, and uncertainty you experience afterward can be overwhelming—especially as medical bills pile up and insurance companies start asking questions.

At InjuredNow, we understand that dog bite cases aren’t just about the injury. They’re about your peace of mind, your sense of security, and your right to recover without being blamed or brushed aside. Our attorneys listen to your story, explain your rights in plain language, and take swift, aggressive action to protect your interests from day one.

Why Do Dog Bites Happen?

Dog attacks can happen anywhere—at home, on the street, or in public parks. While each case is unique, common causes include:

  • Negligent Supervision: Owners failing to restrain or control their dogs.
  • Improper Training or Socialization: Dogs that are not properly socialized may act unpredictably.
  • Failure to Leash: Allowing dogs to roam unleashed in public areas increases risk.
  • Provocation: Children and adults alike may unknowingly provoke a dog, but this rarely excuses the owner from responsibility.
  • History of Aggression: Prior aggressive behavior or previous attacks are major red flags.
  • Poor Fencing or Containment: Dogs that escape poorly maintained yards or enclosures can attack passersby.

No matter how the attack happened, you have the right to hold negligent owners accountable.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bite injuries can range from minor scratches to life-changing wounds. Some of the most common and serious injuries include:

  • Puncture Wounds and Lacerations: Deep bites can damage muscles, nerves, and blood vessels.
  • Infections: Dog saliva contains bacteria that can cause severe infections like cellulitis, tetanus, or rabies.
  • Scarring and Disfigurement: Bites to the face, arms, or legs may leave permanent scars, requiring reconstructive surgery.
  • Nerve Damage: Deep bites can lead to loss of feeling or function in affected limbs.
  • Emotional Trauma: Victims, especially children, may develop anxiety, fear of dogs, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
  • Loss of Income: Severe injuries can require time off work for treatment and recovery.

At InjuredNow, we work with medical experts to fully document your injuries—ensuring nothing is overlooked when seeking compensation.

What to Do After a Dog Bite

If you or your child has been bitten by a dog, your actions in the hours and days after the attack are important for both your health and your legal rights:

  1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Dog bites can cause infections or require stitches, even if the wound seems minor.
  2. Identify the Dog and Owner: Get the name and contact information of the owner and verify the dog’s vaccination records if possible.
  3. Report the Incident: Contact local animal control or law enforcement to create an official report.
  4. Document Everything: Take photos of your injuries, the scene, and (if possible) the dog.
  5. Gather Witness Information: If anyone saw the attack, get their names and contact details.
  6. Avoid Discussing the Attack: Don’t speak with the dog’s owner’s insurance company or make statements before consulting a lawyer.
  7. Contact InjuredNow: The sooner you involve our team, the better we can protect your interests and begin building your case.
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Understanding Dog Bite Laws

Dog bite laws vary by state, but many states use a “strict liability” standard—meaning the dog’s owner is responsible for damages, even if the dog had never shown aggression before. In other places, you may need to prove the owner knew (or should have known) about the dog’s dangerous tendencies. Our attorneys will explain how local laws affect your claim and help you understand your best path forward.

Compensation in Dog Bite Cases

Victims of dog bites are often entitled to a wide range of compensation, including:

  • Medical Expenses: Emergency treatment, surgery, medication, hospital stays, and ongoing care.
  • Rehabilitation Costs: Physical therapy, counseling, or reconstructive surgery.
  • Lost Wages: Income lost due to time away from work or school.
  • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
  • Scarring and Disfigurement: Additional damages for permanent scars or changes to appearance.
  • Property Damage: Replacement of torn clothing, glasses, or personal items.
  • Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence or deliberate misconduct.

At InjuredNow, we carefully calculate your total losses, including future costs and emotional suffering, to ensure you get the compensation you truly deserve.

Dealing With Insurance Companies

Insurance companies may cover the dog owner, but they are not on your side. They often:

  • Attempt to downplay your injuries
  • Argue that you provoked the dog
  • Offer quick, lowball settlements
  • Delay or deny valid claims

Our legal team takes over all communications, negotiates aggressively, and won’t let insurers pressure you into an unfair deal.

Children and Dog Bites

Children are the most common victims of dog attacks. Injuries can be more severe and the emotional impact lasting. We treat these cases with the utmost care, sensitivity, and determination—ensuring that young victims get the support and justice they need for a full recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the bite happened at a friend’s or family member’s house?
You can still pursue compensation. Homeowner’s or renter’s insurance typically covers these situations—your relationship with the owner should not prevent you from seeking help.

Will the dog be put down?
Not necessarily. Reporting an attack doesn’t automatically mean euthanasia, especially if this is a first incident and the dog can be safely managed.

How long do I have to file a claim?
Every state has deadlines (statutes of limitation) for dog bite cases. Contact InjuredNow quickly to protect your rights.

Contact InjuredNow – Start Your Recovery Today

A dog bite is a traumatic event, but you are not alone. At InjuredNow, we’re here to guide you through every step of the legal process, answer your questions honestly, and fight relentlessly for your full recovery.

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Dog Bites | Practice Areas | Injured Now