Dogs bring so much joy into our lives, but even the sweetest dog can have a bad day. Dog attacks are painful and emotionally traumatizing.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering—even without filing a lawsuit.
What Are Ohio’s Dog Bite Laws?
In Ohio, the law is on your side if you’ve been bitten by a dog. Here’s why:
- Strict liability: Unlike some states, Ohio holds dog owners responsible for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of whether the dog has any history of aggression. This means you’re entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, even if it was the dog’s first bite.
- Time to act: In Ohio, you generally have two years to file a negligence claim (or until your 24th birthday if you were a minor when the dog bite occurred). For a strict liability claim, the deadline is six years.
- Exceptions are rare: While there are a few exceptions to this rule (e.g., if you were criminally trespassing), they are uncommon. Our experienced attorneys can help you understand if any exceptions apply to your case.
Why Choose Slater & Zurz’s Dog Bite Lawyers?
Car Accidents
$74,129,011
Personal Injury
$28,227,451
Wrongful Death
$6,363,668
Dog Attacks
$6,317,167
Nursing Home Abuse
$21,760,027
What Compensation Are Dog Bite Victims Entitled To?
A dog bite can leave you with more than just physical wounds. The emotional trauma, financial burdens, and impact on your daily life can be significant. Thankfully, the law recognizes this, and you may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages:
- Medical costs: Past, present, and future medical bills related to your dog bite injuries, including surgeries, medications, and therapy.
- Lost wages: If your injuries kept you from work, you can claim the income you lost during your recovery.
- Pain and suffering: The physical pain and emotional distress caused by the attack are real, and you deserve compensation for them.
- Disfigurement and disability: If your injuries have left you with permanent scars or disabilities, you may be entitled to additional compensation.
How We Won A $230,000 Settlement for A Dog Bite Victim
An 8-year-old boy suffered a devastating injury when a dog bit off the tip of his nose. Initial medical bills totaled $8,000, but we knew the long-term impact on his life would be far greater. Our dog bite lawyers fought tirelessly to secure a $230,000 settlement, ensuring the boy had the resources he needed for ongoing medical care, emotional support, and a brighter future.
What to Do After You’ve Been Bitten by a Dog in Ohio
The aftermath of a dog bite can be overwhelming. Knowing what to do next can make all the difference in your physical and emotional healing, as well as your ability to seek compensation.
- Get medical attention immediately: Your health and safety are the number one priority. Even if the bite seems minor, see a doctor or go to the emergency room right away. Dog bites can lead to infections or other complications down the line.
- Document your injuries: Take photos of your wounds from different angles. This will help your attorney assess the severity of the attack and build a stronger case for compensation. Keep copies of all medical records, bills, and receipts related to your treatment.
- Report the bite: Contact your local police department, animal control, or dog warden. Filing a report creates an official record of the incident and helps ensure the dog owner is held accountable.
- Contact an experienced dog bite attorney: The pain and stress of a dog bite can be especially difficult when the dog belongs to someone you know. Rest assured, seeking compensation doesn’t necessarily mean suing the dog owner or that the dog will be euthanized. In many cases, we can secure compensation directly from their homeowner’s insurance. Our dog bite attorneys will listen to your story without judgment, explain your legal options, and help you navigate the often complex relationships involved in these situations.
Strict liability means that the dog owner is automatically held responsible for your injuries, even if they took precautions to prevent the bite. This is the standard rule in Ohio. Comparatively, proving negligence requires demonstrating that the dog owner was careless or failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the bite.
This book was written by the dog bite lawyers at Slater and Zurz. It is your all-inclusive guide to dog bites in Ohio. It will give you valuable information about Ohio Law and dog bites, as well as what you should do if you’re bitten, and what to avoid.