Who Is Liable for a Dog Bite From a Stray Dog?

In many densely-populated cities, stray dogs are relatively common. When a dog does not live in a home with their owners or if the dog was never in the care of someone, to begin with, it is then considered a stray. However, if an animal is not immediately attached to an owner, is it possible to hold someone responsible for the dog’s behavior? Specifically, if you are bitten by a stray dog and need medical attention, who is liable?

If you received a bite from a stray dog, it’s essential to know what to do next if you wish to take legal action against the liable party. Determining who is responsible for a stray animal can be difficult, especially if the dog is not chipped or tagged appropriately. However, it is possible to find out who the most recently associated owner or responsible party is and how to hold them accountable. Mintz Law Firm has access to helpful resources, tools, and strategies to assist you with your endeavors and take action against the liable parties.

Can You Hold Someone Liable For a Bite From a Stray Dog in Colorado?

In theory, it’s possible to hold someone liable for a stray dog’s bite injuries or other harmful activities. While it is feasible to take legal action and receive compensation from this type of case, determining who is responsible for the animal will likely be a little tricky. Fortunately, the following are a few ideas that may lead you in the right direction:

• It’s possible that the most recent owner actively releases their dog from their home illegally, for example. If the dog can be connected to their previous owner, this individual is likely liable.
• If a dog is given to a kennel, shelter, pound, or similar, an employee may be liable. This may be the case if the dog wanders away or is let loose, whether accidentally or on purpose.
• When a landlord or similar enters a tenant’s home and lets the dog out while its owner is away, this individual may be responsible for your losses.
• A dog walker or other individual who is left temporarily responsible for the dog’s care may be liable. This may be the case whether the owner is out of town or not.

Tracking down the liable party may not always be easy or possible, but there are places you and your lawyer can start. You should not be held responsible for another person’s negligent or illegal actions. If you need assistance determining who is responsible for your injuries, a dog bite injury lawyer can help.

Should You Seek Medical Attention After a Colorado Stray Dog Bite?

It’s always best to seek medical attention after being bitten by a stray dog, especially if the animal is not one you are well-acquainted or familiar with. There is always a chance that the animal has rabies or other transferable diseases, and your health and safety are paramount. A doctor can help assess the situation and recommend a cure or treatment plan, depending on the extent of your injuries.

If you choose to take legal action, we suggest you hold onto medical bills and doctor’s notes. These, as well as other relevant documents, may help create an accurate estimate of the compensation you can receive, portray your version of events, and show the court your dedication to making a recovery. If you need assistance finding a qualified medical practitioner, your dog bite injury lawyer may be able to give you a referral.

Bitten by a Stray Dog in Colorado? Get Help From a Dog Bite Lawyer at Mintz Law Firm

If you receive a bite or other injury from a stray animal and want to attempt to hold the liable party accountable for your losses, we may be able to help. The dog bite injury lawyers from Mintz Law Firm have extensive experience in pet ownership and injury laws in Colorado, and we have the ability to offer valuable support.

We invite you to contact us if you want assistance following your dog bite incident. You can reach us by calling (303) 462-2999 or completing our contact form at your earliest convenience. If you need more information, we can answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide helpful resources when you have your free consultation and partner with us. We look forward to hearing from you and aiding you during your legal matters.