Dog bites can vary dramatically—from mild nips barely breaking the skin to severe maulings that cause long-term damage. Knowing what common injuries to look out for is key to getting the right medical care and pursuing necessary legal steps if you’ve been bitten.
Call our Denver dog bite lawyers at (866) 823-8288 if a dog attacked you or a loved one. We’ll help you hold the owner responsible and pursue compensation to help you move forward.
Common dog bite injuries
Dog bites can result in various injuries, some of which may require immediate medical treatment, while others might lead to long-term complications. Here’s a closer look at the most common injuries caused by dog bites:
Puncture wounds
Although they may appear minor, puncture wounds penetrate deep into the skin, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. These injuries are prone to infection and require careful medical examination.
Lacerations and abrasions
Dog bites can cause severe lacerations and abrasions (tears or scrapes on the skin). These injuries can be quite painful and may result in significant bleeding, scarring, and the need for surgical intervention to repair the damage.
Crush injuries
When a dog bites, it exerts significant pressure, potentially leading to crush injuries. These injuries can affect deeper structures such as bones, muscles, and nerves and often require extensive medical treatment.
Infections
A significant risk of dog bites is infection, given the variety of bacteria in a dog’s mouth, including Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Pasteurella. Symptoms of an infection include redness, swelling, increased pain, and fever. Proper medical treatment is crucial to prevent complications like sepsis or rabies.
Scarring and disfigurement
Depending on the severity of the attack, dog bites can lead to scarring and disfigurement. Facial bites are particularly concerning as they require cosmetic surgery to minimize long-term visual impacts and restore function.
Nerve and muscle damage
Severe dog bites can damage nerves and muscles, potentially leading to loss of function or chronic pain. These types of injuries, including neurapraxia, axonotmesis, and neurotmesis may require multiple surgeries and long-term physical therapy.
Emotional and psychological trauma
Apart from physical injuries, dog bites can cause significant emotional distress. Victims might develop a phobia of dogs, suffer from anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or other psychological issues that require professional treatment.
Your rights under state law
Colorado’s dog bite law allows victims bitten by a dog to seek compensation under certain conditions, particularly if the injury is serious or results in permanent disfigurement or disability. Understanding your rights is crucial if you pursue a claim for damages, which can cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs.
How Zara Injury Law can help
If you or a loved one has suffered from a dog bite, the experienced attorneys at Zara Injury Law can provide the guidance and support you need. We can help you understand the complexities of dog bite laws, evaluate your case, and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve. Our team is dedicated to supporting you through the medical and legal challenges following a dog bite, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way.
Contact us online or call (866) 823-8288 to schedule your free consultation today.