Ohio Dog Bite Injuries: Your Rights In Holding The Dog Owner Liable

Dog bites and attacks can happen without warning, resulting in serious injuries and heavy medical bills. When the dog owner’s negligence is to blame, you have the right to hold them accountable.

Our experienced Sandusky dog bite lawyers help clients in these cases and see firsthand the devastating harm that can result. Find out how state laws apply and steps you can take to get the compensation you need to recover.

Ohio Holds Dog Owners Strictly Liable For Bite Injuries

Ohio ranks among the states with the highest number of reported dog bite incidents. The Ohio Department of Health reports nearly 14,000 cases annually, and many more go unreported.

Under the Ohio Revised Code (Section 955.28), dog owners are strictly liable for bites and attacks. You do not have to prove that the owner knew their dog was dangerous to pursue a claim. Strict liability applies in situations such as:

• A neighbor’s dog bit you while you were lawfully on their property.
• A dog attacked you in a public park, on a sidewalk, or during a walk.
• A dog knocked you down and caused injury, even without a bite.
• A pet sitter’s or landlord’s dog injured you on shared or common property.
• A dog that has never shown aggression before attacked without warning.

Owner liability does have limits. Under Ohio law, owners are generally not liable if the victim was trespassing or committing a misdemeanor, or if the victim was teasing or abusing the dog at the time of the attack.

Getting the Compensation You Need to Recover After Dog Bite Injuries in Ohio

Recovering from a dog bite injury often takes far longer than people expect. Lacerations, nerve damage, infections, and emotional trauma may require extensive medical care while leaving you unable to work.

The sooner you take action, the stronger your claim will be. Take these steps if you suffer dog bite injuries in Ohio:

• Seek medical attention right away, even if the wound appears minor.
• Report the bite to your local animal control authority.
• Photograph your injuries and where the attack happened.
• Gather contact information for any witnesses who observed the attack or the dog’s behavior beforehand.
• Get professional legal help before giving recorded statements to the dog owner’s insurance company.

When a dog bite in Sandusky or anywhere in the state happens, the owner’s property insurance may cover your damages. If they don’t have coverage, you may be able to hold them liable through an Ohio dog bite lawsuit.

Contact Our Experienced Sandusky Dog Bite Lawyers Today

Dog bites and attacks in Ohio can disrupt your life in ways that go far beyond the physical injuries. At Murray & Murray, our Sandusky dog bite lawyers know how to build a strong case and help you get the total amount you need to recover, either through insurance or by filing your case in court.

If you or a family member was injured, call or contact us today to request a consultation. We serve clients across the area, including Sandusky, Ohio, and the Northern Ohio area.

Sources:

odh.ohio.gov/know-our-programs/zoonotic-disease-program/animals/dogs

codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-955.28