Dog bites are some of the most difficult to treat injuries, from the high chance of infection to difficulty suturing the wound, and the potential for deep scarring, disfigurement, and nerve damage. With serious injuries like these, it’s no wonder people wonder, “Does health insurance cover dog bites?”
The good news is that, yes, your health insurance should cover dog mauling and other animal bites. But if you live in Colorado, you have other options for paying for the medical treatment you need after a dog bite. With the help of our Denver dog bite lawyer, you can file a suit for compensatory games against the negligent dog owner and secure coverage of all your medical expenses and other damages.
Colorado’s dog bite laws
Each state sets its own laws regarding a dog owner’s liability if the animal attacks another person or pet. Some have a “one bite” rule, which states that the owner is only liable if the dog has bitten someone before and, therefore, may bite again. Other states, including Colorado, follow a stricter test of liability.
In Colorado, if you are in a location you’re legally permitted to be, and are attacked by a dog, then you have the right to seek economic damages from the animal’s owner, regardless of whether the dog had a prior history of biting or aggression.
Exceptions to owner liability in Colorado dog bite claims
Although a dog’s owner is generally presumed to be liable in dog bite injury claims, there are some exceptions to the laws holding the owner liable. If one of these situations applies, then it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to recover damages:
- You were trespassing on private or public property when you were bitten
- The dog was performing official duties as a military or police K-9 dog
- There were clear warning signs on the property alerting visitors of the danger of the dog
- A dog bit you in the course of your employment duties of working with dogs (like a vet tech or dog groomer)
- The dog was working as a herding, hunting, farm, or predator control animal
- You knowingly provoked the dog to attack
Don’t be surprised if the dog’s owner tries to claim that one of these scenarios happened, especially that you provoked the dog. Dog bite victims suffer an inordinate amount of victim-blaming. When you work with an attorney, they can act as your point of contact with the other party, ensuring you’re not harassed by the owner or pressured into dropping your suit.
Pursuing damages in Colorado dog bite claims
If a dog bites someone, the owner is liable for the harm the animal causes, including all necessary medical care, property damage, and, if the victim missed work because of their injuries, replenishment of all unearned wages from the time they missed.
Victims are also entitled to fair compensation for non-material damages, including pain and suffering and emotional trauma. However, the state caps the amount of non-economic damages you can collect at $250,000.
Usually, the dog owner’s homeowners or renters insurance covers the damages. However, if the policy doesn’t fully cover your losses, you may be able to sue the dog owner personally, although you’ll have to discuss this with your lawyer.
Do you need help with your dog bite claim?
Dog bite cases can get surprisingly complex, and are often contentious. The attorneys at Zara Injury Law can help you get the compensation and justice you deserve. Call (866) 823-8288 for a free consultation.