Ohio Dog Bite Lawyers
Suffering from a dog bite can be frightening, painful and even life-changing. Dog bites are puncture wounds, which means there is a high likelihood of infection and other complications. Some dog attacks can even lead to fatal injuries, especially those involving children.
If you or a family member has been harmed by a dangerous dog, it is important to understand your legal options for seeking financial compensation. Here at NRS Injury Law, they are the largest personal injury firm in Ohio, and they can provide you with the legal assistance you need. They offer free initial consultations to anyone in Ohio, across all 88 counties. Their experienced lawyers are here for you when you need them.
Dangerous Dog Vs. Vicious Dog
Ohio differentiates between a dangerous dog and a vicious dog based on the severity of the attack. If a dog has chased or attempted to bite someone, it may be considered dangerous. However, a dog is classified as vicious if it has caused serious injury or death.
Ohio also follows a strict liability rule. Many states will only take legal action if a dog has a history of dangerous behavior. Often, dogs are “given” one bite and then owners are liable for subsequent attacks. In Ohio, however, the person responsible for the dog is typically liable for any injuries the dog causes, even if it has never attacked before. You do not have to prove a pattern of dangerous behavior.
What Should You Do After A Dog Bite?
The first thing to do after a dog bite is to seek medical attention. It is crucial to have the wound cleaned promptly to prevent infection. You should also gather any available evidence, such as video footage, witness statements, police reports and medical records.
It is important to act quickly, as Ohio has a statute of limitations for dog bite claims. You must file your case within six years, or you could lose your right to seek compensation, even if your claim is otherwise valid.
Set Up A Consultation Today
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dangerous or vicious dog, call the firm’s office at 855-468-4878 today to schedule your consultation. You can also reach out to the firm through their online contact form. Initial consultations are free.
Ohio’s Dog Bite Law: Strict Liability for Owners
Ohio is a strict-liability state for dog bites. Under Ohio law, a dog’s owner, keeper, or harborer is generally responsible for injuries the dog causes – even if the dog never bit anyone before and the owner did nothing wrong. Unlike some states, Ohio does not give owners a “one free bite.” This makes Ohio dog bite claims different from many other injury cases, and our attorneys know how to use the law to protect you.
Who Is Liable for a Dog Bite?
Liability can extend beyond the dog’s legal owner to anyone who keeps or harbors the animal, such as a person watching the dog or a landlord who allowed it on the property. Identifying every responsible party is important because it affects which insurance policies can cover your injuries.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog attacks can cause far more than a simple wound – puncture injuries, torn tissue, infections, nerve damage, and permanent scarring are common, and children are especially vulnerable to serious facial and head injuries. These injuries can require surgery and leave lasting physical and emotional effects.
How Much Is a Dog Bite Claim Worth?
There is no set amount. The value of a dog bite claim depends on the severity of the injuries, medical and surgical costs, scarring and disfigurement, emotional trauma, and lost income. We pursue a settlement that reflects the full impact of the attack, not just the initial medical bills.
How Dog Bite Claims Are Usually Paid
Most dog bite claims are paid through the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, which means pursuing a claim usually does not come out of a neighbor’s or friend’s pocket. We handle the insurance company so you can focus on healing.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
Seek medical care right away, report the bite to local authorities, photograph your injuries and the scene, and get the owner’s information if you can. Then speak with an attorney before giving any statement to an insurer – what you do early can protect your right to full compensation.
