Colorado Personal Injury Attorneys
| Breed-Specific Legislation
Among the dog breeds most often affected by laws that seek to limit or ban ownership are:
Source: ASPCA |
In an effort to lower the incidence of dog bite injuries and dog attacks, some communities in the U.S. have pushed for legislation that is designed to regulate or ban dogs based on their breed. Most often, these so-called ‘breed-specific laws’ are aimed at pit bulls, Staffordshire bull terriers, and Rottweilers. However, some locales have also tried to limit or ban Mastiffs, Dalmations, German Shepherds, Doberman Pinschers, and other breeds. Such regulations remain controversial, and many respected organizations have spoken out against them. If you’ve been bitten by a dog you suspect of being banned in your area, consult a qualified personal injury attorney for advice on potential owner liability for your injuries.
At the Law Firm of Jeremy Rosenthal, our veteran dog bite injury attorneys understand the laws that apply not just to Denver, but to the many communities statewide. We have handled a wide variety of cases involving dog bite injuries, as well as other types of injuries caused by dogs. Our firm understands how painful such injuries can be, and we’ve built a reputation for caring work with clients who are suffering because an unrestrained or dangerous dog attacked them. If you or someone you love has suffered injuries caused by a dog, it is important to contact our firm for advice quickly. Colorado’s statutes limit the time period within which you can pursue a claim for damages. A delay in seeking legal guidance could affect your rights.
Arguments for limiting specific dog breeds are based on the somewhat questionable statistics available about the breeds most likely to inflict dog bites that occur in this country. Data has been questioned on its consistency and accuracy. Some sources point out that bites are attributed to specific breeds on the basis of visual identification alone. In many instances, genetic testing may prove such identification wrong. Although communities aim to enhance public safety by prohibiting specific breeds, those who oppose the laws say that they can cause unfair and undue hardship on responsible owners of dogs that are well-behaved and well-socialized.
Some critics also note that a singular focus on banning specific breeds necessitates spending time and effort on enforcement of that mandate. They argue that those efforts detract from the community’s ability to enforce other measures that actually contribute more effectively to public safety: leash laws, license laws, anti-tethering laws, and dog-fighting laws. While the arguments continue, some areas ban or limit specific breeds, while other areas ban the bans.
At the Law Firm of Jeremy Rosenthal, our dog bite injury attorneys pledge their efforts to uphold the rights of individuals who have been injured by a dog, regardless of the animal’s breed. Our concern is the human pain and suffering that is caused by dog attacks. Especially since the incidence of bite wounds suffered by young children is so high. We know that hundreds of thousands of children and adults must seek medical treatment every year because of dog bites. If you’ve been wounded by a dog, or if a loved one has been harmed, the Denver dog bite injury attorneys at the Law Firm of Jeremy Rosenthal are the proven legal resource you need in your corner. Call our offices today and schedule a free consultation. We’ll explain your rights and the options available to you.
Contact our Denver Colorado Personal Injury Law Firm at 303-825-2223
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