Can You Sue if Someone’s Dog Bit You in Ohio?
Posted in: Dog Bite
KNR Legal Blog
In 2023, the United States Postal Service (USPS) released its annual report on dog attacks, highlighting Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland as some of the top cities for dog bites on postal workers. This ranking underscores a significant issue that affects not only postal employees but also the general public. Dog attacks can result in serious injuries, trauma, and even death, making it vital for everyone to understand the risks and their legal rights.
The experienced dog bite lawyers at Kisling, Nestico, & Redick, P.C. have supported thousands of Ohio injury victims. Schedule a free, confidential case evaluation with KNR at 1-800-HURT-NOW to learn how we can assist you.
The 2023 USPS dog attack report is a stark reminder of the risks faced by postal workers on the job and the public alike. If a dog bites you, it can result in serious injuries, infections, and emotional trauma. Knowing the steps for legal protection and potential compensation is crucial when these incidents occur.
Ohio is a strict liability state for dog bites. The pet owner or other responsible party is liable for “any injury, death, or loss to person or property” caused by their dog’s behavior (ORC 955.261). Because of the broad nature of Ohio dog bite laws, victims can sue in many cases. You could be entitled to compensation if you have sustained injuries or other damages from a dog’s behavior.
If a dog has bitten you, you could pursue legal action. Experienced dog-bite lawyers, like the ones at KNR, are here to help. Here’s a step-by-step guide to pursuing legal action after a dog has bitten you:
Your health and safety are the top priority. Seek medical care immediately after a dog bite to treat injuries and prevent infections. However, it’s also crucial to collect any evidence of the attack. This will help your injury claim later. Be sure to include prior interactions with the dog, pictures of your injuries, potential witnesses, etc.
After receiving medical treatment, it’s important to report the incident. Notify local authorities and animal control about the dog bite. This helps document the incident for your lawyer and may prevent future attacks by the same animal.
Collect as much information as possible about the incident. Take photographs of your injuries, where the bite occurred, and any visible signs of negligence (e.g., broken fences, lack of warning signs). Be sure to note any prior interactions with the dog and obtain contact information from any possible witnesses and the dog’s owner.
Dog bite cases can be complex, and Ohio’s laws regarding liability and compensation require expert navigation. The attorneys at KNR have extensive experience handling dog bite cases and can help you understand your rights as you navigate through your case and the potential for compensation.
Keep detailed records of your medical treatment, lost wages, and any other expenses related to the dog bite. This documentation will be crucial in building a strong case for compensation, as discovery can often be the longest part of the lawsuit process.
Ohio follows a strict liability rule for dog bites, meaning the dog’s owner can be held liable regardless of the animal’s previous behavior or the owner’s knowledge of the dog’s aggression. This law protects victims and ensures they receive fair compensation for their injuries.
Some municipalities in Ohio have breed-specific legislation. However, as of 2012, Ohio no longer has statewide laws cover certain breeds. Instead, the Ohio Revised Code outlines certain behaviors that make a dog “dangerous.”
With the guidance of KNR attorneys, you can file a claim or lawsuit against the dog’s owner or insurance company. Your attorney will help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for the compensation you deserve.
With offices across the state and experienced dog bite attorneys in Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland, KNR is committed to protecting the rights of dog bite victims throughout Ohio. Our team brings a wealth of knowledge, a compassionate approach, and a track record of success.
We’ve recovered millions in settlements and verdicts for our clients and understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll a dog bite can take. Let us help you secure the compensation you need to recover and move forward.
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Columbus, Cincinnati, Cleveland, or anywhere in Ohio, contact KNR at 1-800-HURT-NOW or online to schedule a free legal consultation. We’ll discuss what happened, your options, and what comes next.