How Often Do Colorado Dog Bite Attacks Result in Hospital Visits?
Colorado is an extremely dog-friendly state. Most towns and cities have dog parks located in every neighborhood, making it easy for the large number of dog owners across the state to get their pets some exercise and socialization time. In addition, you’re likely to see dogs along hiking trails, multi-use paths, and in other heavily trafficked areas. If you enjoy dining outside, you’ve also likely noticed that many establishments with outdoor patios allow dogs.
The benefits of living in such a dog-friendly state are too numerous to list here. But the frequency with which you’re likely to encounter strange dogs in Colorado will also increase the chances of being involved in a dog bite attack. Unfortunately, dog bites can result in serious injuries that often require medical treatment. In many instances, this treatment is administered in hospital settings.
According to the CDC, more than 40% of dog bite injuries in Colorado result in emergency room visits. This figure also aligns with national trends regarding hospital treatment after dog bite attacks.
Hospital Admissions for Dog Bite Injuries Are Relatively Rare
While many individuals require hospital treatment after a dog bite attack, only a small portion of these visits result in admission to the hospital. Only 2-3% of patients seen in the emergency room for a dog bite remain in the hospital for more intensive treatment. In most instances, injuries can be managed in the emergency room with the patient being released following treatment. Hospital stays are typically reserved for the most severe dog bite cases involving serious wounds, infections, fractures and complications.
Dog Bite Hospitalizations Are on the Rise in Colorado
The COVID-19 pandemic initiated a trend that has continued in recent years – dog bite hospitalizations have been on the rise. This has been particularly true among children injured in dog bite attacks:
- During the spring of 2020 (the peak of the pandemic), dog bite treatments in Children’s Hospital Colorado’s emergency department nearly tripled compared to the previous year
- Pediatric dog bite admissions rose from 11.4% prior to the pandemic to 12.9% during the pandemic
This reflects a broader trend of children under the age of five being the most frequently hospitalized age group due to dog bites. Children’s Hospital Colorado data indicates that 68% of pediatric facial dog bite victims were under the age of five, and this age group was more likely to require hospitalization than older children. While the highest incidence of dog bite injuries occurs in children between the ages of five and nine, there’s a greater risk of hospitalization when child dog bite victims are under the age of 5.
Dog Bite Hospitalization Rates Are Higher in Rural Areas
The hospitalization rates after a dog bite attack are significantly higher in rural areas in Colorado compared with urban areas. This applies to both emergency room visits and hospital admissions:
- The rate of dog bite-related emergency room visits is four times higher in rural areas than in urban areas
- Hospitalization rates for dog bite attacks are three times higher in rural areas compared to urban areas
Most Common Diagnoses for Dog Bite Hospitalizations in Colorado
Data regarding dog bite hospital admissions in Colorado has found that the most common diagnoses requiring hospitalization include:
- Skin and subcutaneous tissue infections (43% of dog bite-related hospital stays)
- Open wounds on arms and legs (22% of cases)
- Open wounds on the head, neck and torso (10.5% of cases)
- Arm fractures (5% of cases)
Pushchak Law Can Help After a Dog Bite Attack
If you’ve been injured in a dog bite attack in Colorado, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages regardless of whether you require hospitalization. Colorado dog bite laws establish strict liability for dog owners, which means they are held responsible for your injuries even when they did not act negligently. At Pushchak Law, we can help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Brian Pushchak has made dog bite cases a primary focus of his practice. He understands the severe injuries that often occur after a dog bite, and he knows how to estimate potential future medical bills associated with subsequent treatments after a serious dog bite. This area of specialization is critical when trying to maximize the value of your compensation.
When you work with Mr. Pushchak, you’ll also remain in control of your case at all times due to his unique Informed Decisions™ Approach. As part of this approach, he will discuss your goals for your case in detail to ensure he’s aligned with your needs. You can ask any questions to ensure you understand all your options. Mr. Pushchak will also make himself available to you throughout the case for additional questions or status updates, and you’ll receive his personal contact information in case you need to reach him after hours. While Mr. Pushchak will recommend the best strategy to achieve your goals, you will always have the final say on how your case is handled. This approach ensures your best interests are prioritized throughout the process.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Pushchak Law serves clients in Denver and throughout Colorado.
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