Dog Bites & Animal Attacks in Colorado Springs: What Victims Must Know

Colorado Springs is known for being a dog-friendly city, but that doesn’t mean every encounter is safe. From off-leash hiking trails near Red Rock Canyon Open Space to busy neighborhoods in Briargate, dog bites occur when owners fail to manage their pets responsibly. A dog bite injury can lead to expensive medical treatment, emotional trauma, and long-lasting complications.

At Kimball Injury Law, we help victims understand their rights and navigate the legal steps needed to hold negligent dog owners accountable.

1. Dog Bite Injury Laws in Colorado Springs: What Sets Them Apart

Colorado uses a unique combination of strict liability and negligence standards depending on the type and severity of the bite.

Here’s what makes our state different:

• Strict Liability Applies Only to Serious Injuries: If the bite causes severe bodily injury or permanent scarring, the owner can be held liable even if the dog had no prior incidents.

• Negligence Can Apply to Lesser Injuries: If the injuries aren’t classified as “serious,” victims can still recover compensation by proving the owner was careless (ignoring leash laws, failing to secure a dog, or allowing unsafe behavior).

• Location Matters: Public spaces such as Bear Creek Dog Park have posted rules. When owners ignore them, liability becomes easier to prove.

Kimball Injury Law evaluates which legal path fits your situation so you pursue the strongest possible claim.

2. Why Dog Bites Happen: The Hidden Risks Most People Miss

Most attacks come from familiar or seemingly calm dogs. Many victims are surprised by what triggers a bite. Common overlooked causes include:

1. Protective behavior — Dogs guarding their homes or yards in areas like Old Colorado City.

2. Untrained or anxious dogs — Rescue animals or newly adopted pets.

3. Children interacting unknowingly — Kids make unpredictable movements that trigger fear responses.

4. Ignoring posted leash laws — Especially on trails around Ute Valley Park or the Manitou Springs Incline trailhead.

These situations highlight why the law puts responsibility on owners—not victims.

3. What Victims Should Do Immediately After a Dog Bite

Time matters after an attack. Following these steps not only protects your health but strengthens your legal case:

• Wash the wound immediately to reduce infection risk.

• Seek medical treatment even if the injury looks minor; dog bites often hide deeper tissue damage.

• Ask the owner for vaccine and vet information — especially rabies and tetanus status.

• Report the attack to Colorado Springs Animal Control to create an official record.

• Take photos of injuries, clothing damage, the dog, and the location.

• Avoid speaking with the dog owner’s insurance company until you’ve talked to Kimball Injury Law.

These steps help build a clear timeline and supporting evidence for your injury claim.

4. Types of Compensation Available for Dog Bite Victims

Depending on the extent of the injury, victims may be entitled to compensation for:

• Emergency medical care and future treatment

• Infection management or plastic surgery

• Lost income or job limitations

• PTSD, fear of dogs, or anxiety

• Permanent scarring or mobility limitations

Dog bites often require ongoing care. Kimball Injury Law helps ensure insurance companies don’t downplay long-term needs or emotional trauma.

5. Why Hiring a Local Colorado Springs Lawyer Makes a Difference

Dog bite cases are highly local. Ordinances differ between Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs, and Fountain, particularly around leash laws, animal control requirements, and liability standards.

A local attorney like Kimball Injury Law understands:

• How El Paso County judges handle animal attack cases

• What documentation Animal Control typically provides

• The way local insurers attempt to minimize claims

• How to gather evidence from parks, neighborhoods, and apartment complexes

This local insight often leads to stronger negotiations and faster case resolutions.

Protecting Your Future After a Dog Bite Injury

A dog bite can change your life quickly — from physical pain to emotional distress and unexpected medical bills. With Colorado’s strict liability rules and Kimball Injury Law’s experience, you don’t have to face these challenges alone.

If you were injured in a dog attack in Colorado Springs or Manitou Springs, visit Kimball Injury Law today to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help you move forward.