Off-leash dog parks are meant to be safe spaces where dogs can roam freely and socialize under the watchful eye of their owners. But when that trust is broken—when a dog turns aggressive—innocent people can get hurt. If you’ve been injured in a dog bite attack at an off-leash park in Denver, you’re not alone. We wind people in asking the important question: Do you need a lawyer after a dog bite at an off-leash park in Denver?
The answer is often yes, especially when serious injury, mounting medical expenses, or legal uncertainties arise. Understanding your rights under Colorado dog bite laws, the responsibilities of a dog owner, and what compensation you may be entitled to is essential to protecting yourself after such a traumatic event.
Understanding Dog Bites and Colorado Law
Dog bites can cause severe injuries, including bodily injury, infections, emotional trauma, and even permanent damage. Colorado recognizes how serious animal bites can be, which is why the state enforces strict liability laws to protect the public. This applies especially in cases where a dog inflicts harm without provocation.
Under Colorado law, a dog owner is held strictly liable when their dog causes a serious bodily injury. In more severe cases, death, regardless of the dog’s history or the owner’s knowledge of prior aggression.
This liability is not limited to private property—it applies to public areas, including off-leash parks in Denver and surrounding areas like Colorado Springs.
Dog Parks and Leash Law Exceptions
While Colorado enforces a statewide leash law, many cities, including Denver, designate specific off-leash parks where dogs can run freely under supervision. However, the presence of these parks does not eliminate a dog owner’s responsibility.
In fact, local rules and park regulations often still require reasonable care and supervision of dogs, even when allowed to be run off-leash.
If a bite occurred at one of these parks, it doesn’t automatically absolve the owner of liability. If the owner failed to control their animal, neglected to intervene, or knowingly brought a dangerous or aggressive dog to the park, they may still be found responsible under Colorado dog bite case precedents.
When Does Strict Liability Apply?
In a Colorado dog bite, the strict liability rule applies when a dog bite victim suffers a serious injury, including broken bones, deep wounds, disfigurement, or any injury that requires multiple medical treatments.
Importantly, Colorado dog bite laws apply regardless of the dog’s behavioral history. Whether the dog was known to be dangerous or not, if a bite happened, the injured person can file a dog bite claim or a personal injury lawsuit.
That said, additional personal injury claims may also be brought under a negligence claim, particularly if the owner knew of the dog’s aggressive behavior, failed to take reasonable care, or violated Denver animal protection rules.
The Role of Animal Control and Denver Authorities
After a dog attack, it’s crucial to report the incident to Denver Animal Protection or animal control. These agencies will investigate the event, review any history of prior animal attacks, and enforce local regulations.
If warranted, they may initiate fines, citations, or even recommend criminal charges if the case involves extreme negligence or violation of state law.
Getting this official report is a vital step in the legal process and can serve as strong evidence in your dog bite lawsuit.
When You Should Seek Medical Attention
No matter how minor a dog bite injury may seem, always seek medical attention immediately. Medical professionals can assess the damage, clean the wound, prevent infection, and create crucial medical records that will support your personal injury or dog bite claim. It is one of the most crucial dog bites
In many dog attack cases, the injuries sustained may appear small at first but later reveal deeper damage or complications. Some victims experience emotional distress, anxiety, and even PTSD after a bite, especially in cases involving pit bulls or breeds known for stronger bites.
Document all medical visits, prescriptions, and follow-up medical treatment, including any referrals to specialists. These documents will help establish the full scope of your medical bills and support a claim for non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
The Importance of Legal Representation
If you’re asking whether you need a dog bite attorney after being injured at a Denver off-leash park, consider the following:
- Was the injury severe?
- Are you facing medical expenses, lost wages, or ongoing care?
- Did the insurance company deny or reduce your claim?
- Is there uncertainty about who the responsible party is?
If any of the above apply, consulting a personal injury attorney is a critical next step. A skilled dog bite lawyer can guide you through the legal process, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and build a strong case aimed at achieving fair compensation.
They can also determine whether Colorado law applies under strict liability or if additional negligence claims can be filed due to the dog owner’s behavior.
Essential Evidence for a Dog Bite Claim
If you’re wondering what happens if a dog bites someone in Nevada, the first step is to connect with a lawyer. Your dog bite attorney will help gather evidence such as:
- Medical records and bills from your medical professional
- Witness statements from others at the park
- Any photos or videos of the dog attack
- The dog’s behavior before, during, and after the bite
- Park surveillance footage (if available)
- Reports from animal control or the Denver Department
In dog bite cases, establishing where the bite happened, the severity of physical injury, and whether the dog owner acted negligently can directly impact the successful outcome of your case.
What Damages Can You Recover?
Under Colorado dog bite laws, you may be eligible for both economic and non-economic damages, including:
- All medical bills and ongoing medical treatment
- Lost wages from missed work
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma and mental health care
- Long-term care for serious injuries
- Reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses related to the attack
In some cases, your law firm may also pursue punitive damages if the dog owner acted with extreme negligence.
Common Misunderstandings After a Dog Attack
Here’s a quick breakdown of the common misunderstandings among dog attack victims after a dog attack to keep in mind.
1. “It was an off-leash park—aren’t dogs allowed to bite?”
No. While off-leash areas allow dogs to be free of restraints, they don’t excuse biting or injuring others. Owners must still act with reasonable care, especially if they know their dog shows signs of aggressive behavior.
2. “The owner said it was an accident—it’s not worth a claim.”
Even accidental bites can result in significant medical problems. If you’ve suffered a dog bite injury, the law entitles you to pursue a claim regardless of whether the dog owner meant for it to happen.
3. “I don’t want to sue someone over a dog.”
Filing a personal injury claim isn’t about revenge—it’s about covering your medical expenses, recovering from emotional trauma, and holding someone accountable under state law. Most claims are resolved through the insurance company, not directly from the individual’s pocket.
Sometimes, the owner’s property and the inclusion of a police dog can also increase confusion regarding claims. This also poses a substantial risk for individuals not aware of the state wide leash law.
When to Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer
If you’ve experienced a dog bite in Denver or anywhere in Colorado, especially at an off-leash park, don’t wait. The sooner you get legal support, the stronger your case becomes.
Seek out a free consultation with an experienced dog bite lawyer who understands the nuances of Colorado dog bite case law, including strict liability, leash law exceptions, and how to navigate the Denver legal system.
Conclusion: Do You Need a Lawyer After a Dog Bite at an Off-Leash Park in Denver?
Dog attacks can be life-changing, both physically and emotionally. Navigating the aftermath—medical attention, dealing with the insurance company, understanding Colorado law, and determining who’s accountable—isn’t something you have to do alone.
If you’re a dog bite victim in an off-leash area and are facing medical bills, emotional distress, or legal uncertainty, it’s time to get the help you need.
Find a Dog Bite Lawyer with BLG
Contact Bourassa Law Group today for a free consultation. Our team of experienced personal injury lawyers and dog bite attorneys is here to help you secure the fair compensation you deserve, hold the dog owner accountable, and guide you through every step of your Colorado dog bite case.
Your healing matters. Let us protect your rights while you focus on your recovery. Contact us Now.
1-800-870-8910