Akron Dog Bite Lawyers | Kisling, Nestico & Redick
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Akron Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

At Kisling, Nestico & Redick (KNR), our Akron dog bite attorneys understand how devastating a dog attack can be. Dog bites in Akron often lead to serious physical and emotional trauma, but if you’ve been bitten by a dog, you have options for recovery.

With over 500 years of combined legal experience, 30+ skilled attorneys, and millions recovered for clients throughout Ohio—including numerous successful dog bite cases in Akron and Summit County—our dedicated Akron injury lawyers are ready to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. For a free, no-risk consultation with our Akron dog bite attorneys, call (330) 869-9007 today.

At KNR, we ask, ‘what can we do?’ so you move on with more.

Dog Bites in Akron, OH

Dog bites are a serious issue in Akron and across the U.S., with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting that over 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs annually in the United States. Whether the injury occurs in residential neighborhoods, public parks like Hardesty Park or Cascade Valley Metro Park, or while visiting local businesses, dog bites in Akron can lead to costly medical treatment, permanent disfigurement, and emotional trauma.

Why Dogs Bite

Dogs may bite when they feel threatened, anxious, or territorial. Common triggers include a lack of proper training, being startled, or protecting their owner or territory. Children, due to their smaller size and unpredictable behavior, are especially vulnerable to dog attacks.

Common Dog Bite Injuries in Akron

Dog bite injuries in Akron can range from minor scratches to severe injuries requiring extensive medical treatment. The Ohio Department of Health reports thousands of dog bites annually across the state, many of which occur in homes, public spaces, and workplaces.

  • Puncture wounds and lacerations: These can damage muscles, ligaments, and nerves, leading to long-term complications.
  • Broken bones: Powerful dog bites can fracture bones, particularly in children and the elderly.
  • Infections: Dog bite wounds can lead to infections such as rabies, tetanus, or Pasteurella if not treated properly.
  • Disfigurement: Severe bites may cause permanent scarring and require reconstructive surgery.
  • Psychological trauma: Victims, especially children, often suffer from anxiety, PTSD, and lasting emotional distress following an attack.

Diseases from Dog Bites

Tetanus

Caused by the bacteria Clostridium tetani, tetanus is a potentially life-threatening condition that can cause muscle stiffness, flu-like symptoms, and rigid paralysis. It is commonly associated with deep puncture wounds.

Rabies

Although rare, rabies is a deadly viral infection transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, including dogs. Once symptoms develop, it is almost always fatal without immediate treatment.

MRSA

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a dangerous bacterial infection that can spread to the lungs, bloodstream, and other organs if not treated promptly.

Pasteurella

This bacteria is found in up to 50% of dog bite wounds and can cause painful swelling, redness, and infection. It is especially dangerous for individuals with weakened immune systems, children, and the elderly.

Akron Dog Bite Law & Owner Liability

Ohio is a strict liability state, meaning that dog owners in Akron are responsible for injuries caused by their pets, even if the dog has no history of aggression. Under Ohio Revised Code 955.28, dog owners can be held liable if their dog bites or injures someone.

Liability may also extend beyond the dog’s owner. Anyone responsible for the care or control of the dog at the time of the attack may also be held accountable, including dog walkers, sitters, or daycare facilities. For example:

  • Dog Sitters and Walkers: If the dog was under their care and control when the attack happened, they may share liability.
  • Landlords: A landlord may be held liable if they knew the tenant’s dog was dangerous and failed to address the risk.
  • Doggy Daycare Facilities: If the dog attack occurred at a daycare due to improper supervision, the facility may be responsible.

What to Do After a Dog Bite in Akron

If you are bitten by a dog in Akron, it is essential to act quickly to protect your health and preserve evidence for a potential claim:

  • Seek immediate medical attention: Even minor bites can lead to infections or other complications.
  • Report the attack: Contact the Summit County Animal Control to report the incident.
  • Document the attack: Take photos of your injuries, the location of the incident, and any relevant surroundings.
  • Gather information: Collect details about the dog owner, including their contact information and the dog’s vaccination records.
  • Contact KNR to discuss your options for pursuing compensation.

Medical Care for Akron Dog Bites

Akron is home to excellent hospitals and trauma centers equipped to treat dog bite injuries. Our Akron dog bite attorneys work closely with these facilities to ensure your medical treatment and expenses are well-documented as part of your claim.

Local facilities that treat dog bite victims:

Additionally, filing a police report and contacting the Summit County Animal Control is crucial, especially if you are unfamiliar with the dog or it appears unvaccinated or sick.

The Summit County Public Health Animal Control enforces dog laws and investigates dangerous animal reports throughout Akron and surrounding areas.

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Compensation in Akron Dog Bite Cases

In any case of personal injury, you may pursue compensation for a number of losses. However, the process can be complicated, with many paperwork and court hearings requiring extensive legal knowledge. Seeking the assistance of our experienced attorneys at KNR can give you the advantage you need to win your case. We will guide you through every step of the legal process, ensuring that you know all your options.

At KNR, we ask, ‘what can we do?’ so you move on with more.

What Are Dog Bite Victims Entitled to?

If you’ve suffered injuries from a dog bite in Akron, you may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. Victims often face extensive medical expenses, emotional trauma, and disruptions to their daily lives, all of which may be covered through legal claims.

Potential compensation may include:

Punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the dog’s owner for negligence, such as failing to control a known aggressive dog. These damages are typically reserved for cases where the owner acted recklessly or intentionally ignored safety risks. However, exceptions exist if the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing.

Read Does Your Settlement Cover Future Medical Costs?

Insurance Considerations in Dog Bite Cases

In many dog bite cases, the dog owner’s homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policy may cover the victim’s damages. However, insurance companies often try to minimize their payouts, offering settlements that don’t fully cover medical expenses, lost income, or other losses.

At Kisling, Nestico & Redick, our Akron dog bite attorneys have extensive experience negotiating with insurers to secure the maximum compensation available. We’ll handle all interactions with the insurance company and fight back against low settlement offers to ensure your needs are met.

KNR has successfully helped numerous dog bite victims in Akron and throughout Summit County recover compensation for medical care, lost wages, and emotional suffering. Let our experienced attorneys guide you through the legal process, coordinate your medical care, negotiate with the insurance company, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

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Do Akron Dog Bite Cases Have Time Limits?

If you’re considering filing a personal injury lawsuit after being bitten by a dog in Akron, it’s important to be aware of Ohio’s Statute of Limitations. Missing this deadline could prevent you from recovering the compensation you deserve.

In Ohio, dog bite victims have two years from the date of the injury or its discovery to file a lawsuit. Because gathering evidence and building a strong case takes time, you should seek help from an Akron dog bite attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and maximize your compensation.

$180,000 Settlement After Dog Bite Incident

Our client was bitten by her neighbor’s dog on her left forearm resulting in a severe laceration which…

Case Type
 
Settlement $
 
$180,000.00

What Makes KNR Special?

Our Akron Dog Bite Lawyers Are Here For You

We’ll Investigate the Dog Bite

We thoroughly investigate who had control of the dog at the time of the attack and gather critical evidence. This may include speaking to witnesses, reviewing incident reports, and determining whether the dog owner or another party, such as a dog walker, sitter, or kennel, may be held liable. Our goal is to uncover all responsible parties to maximize your potential compensation.

Let Us Negotiate For You

After identifying the responsible individuals or businesses, we investigate available insurance coverage. The best route to compensation often involves filing an insurance claim. Businesses that work with animals, such as doggy daycares or kennels, typically have liability insurance. Additionally, homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policies often cover dog bite injuries. Our experienced negotiators will ensure you are treated fairly and compensated fully.

Prove Your Dog Bite Injuries

We ensure you receive the medical care you need and work with your healthcare providers to document the extent of your injuries. Our Akron dog bite attorneys collaborate with medical experts, if necessary, to provide evidence of your injuries, pain, and ongoing treatment needs. By proving the severity and impact of your injuries, we can seek the highest compensation possible.

Fight For the Max

If the responsible party lacks sufficient insurance coverage or the insurer denies your claim, we may recommend filing a lawsuit. We understand that going to court can be overwhelming, but you won’t face it alone. We’ll handle everything—from filing documents to representing you during trial proceedings. While most cases settle before trial, our team is prepared to fight aggressively in court if needed. With local knowledge of the Summit County courts, KNR is uniquely equipped to handle your Akron dog bite case. You won’t pay unless we win.

At KNR, we ask, ‘what can we do?’ so you move on with more.

Why Work with Our Dog Bite Attorneys?

At Kisling, Nestico & Redick, we strive to make the recovery process after a dog bite accident in Akron as smooth and stress-free as possible. We understand how difficult it can be to deal with insurance companies while you recover from your injuries. With our experienced team of personal injury lawyers, you don’t have to face it alone.

With over 500 years of combined legal experience, a team of 30+ attorneys, and millions recovered for clients, KNR is prepared to handle your case and pursue the compensation you need.

“KNR was outstanding. They listened, understood, and handled everything. I’m grateful for their support.” – John P.

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Let KNR handle your dog bite claim so you can focus on healing and recovery.

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Akron Dog Bite FAQs

What Should I Do If I Was Bitten by a Dog While Working in a Home?

You may have a valid claim against the homeowner or dog owner if you were attacked while working in a home or on someone’s property. Ohio’s strict liability laws apply, and KNR can help you pursue a personal injury case.

Can I Sue If I Was Bitten While Visiting a Friend?

Yes, you can file a claim against your friend’s homeowner’s insurance. While this may feel uncomfortable, insurance is designed to cover incidents like this, and the insurance company—not your friend—will typically cover your damages.

What Happens If I Was Bitten on a Public Street or Park?

If you were bitten in a public area like Hardesty Park or Cascade Valley Metro Park, you may hold the dog’s owner liable. Akron’s leash laws require dogs to be properly restrained, and violations could result in a valid claim for compensation.

What If a Dog Bit My Child?

Children are especially vulnerable to serious injuries from dog bites. Ohio law allows parents to file a claim on behalf of their child to recover compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and any long-term impacts of the injury.

Can I Recover Damages If I Provoked the Dog?

Ohio’s liability laws allow Akron dog bite victims to seek compensation, but if you are found to have provoked the dog, your compensation may be reduced or denied. A skilled dog bite attorney can help you navigate these situations and prove the attack was not your fault.