Can You Sue if Someone’s Dog Bit You in Ohio?

A dog attack can change your life in a split second, causing injury, disability, trauma, or even death. If you or your loved one are victims of a dog bite in Ohio, you might wonder what to do next. Can you sue if someone’s dog bit you in Ohio? The answer is often yes, but it depends on the circumstances of your case.

You should consult an experienced dog bite lawyer in Ohio to understand your options clearly. With an impressive record in Ohio dog bite cases, the dedicated dog bite attorneys at Kisling, Nestico, & Redick, P.C. offer free consultations and can help you determine if you can pursue a lawsuit for compensation.

Schedule a free, confidential case evaluation with KNR at 1-800-HURT-NOW.

What are Ohio’s Dog Bite Laws?

Ohio is a strict liability state for dog bites. This means 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 Ohio’s strict liability dog bite laws, you do not even need to be bitten directly to pursue compensation. For instance, if an aggressive dog knocks you down, causing serious injuries, you can still pursue a dog bite lawsuit in Ohio.

The One-Bite Rule in Ohio

Generally, under Ohio dog bite liability laws, dogs might get one “free” bite without serious legal consequences for the owner. However, after that first bite, dog owners must take proper precautions to prevent further incidents. Owners failing to control their dog after previous aggressive behavior can be held fully liable.

Breed-Specific Legislation and Dangerous Dogs in Ohio

Some Ohio municipalities have breed-specific laws. However, statewide laws in Ohio since 2012 do not target particular breeds. Instead, the Ohio Revised Code classifies dogs as “dangerous,” “vicious,” or a “nuisance” based on behavior.

Owners of these types of dogs have additional responsibilities to prevent attacks. If you discover the dog who bit you had a prior record of aggression, and the owner neglected their legal duties, they could face penalties alongside your lawsuit.

Even without statewide regulations, you might want to know the dog breeds most likely to attack.

When Can You Sue for a Dog Attack in Ohio?

Ohio’s strict liability laws are broad, enabling victims to sue in various scenarios. You could be entitled to compensation for injuries, trauma, and other damages resulting from a dog’s aggressive behavior.

Common reasons victims file a dog bite lawsuit in Ohio include:

• The victim was lawfully on the property (invited or working there) and was attacked.
• The owner failed to supervise, leash, fence, or control their dog adequately.
• The dog bite resulted in serious physical injury, death, disease (such as rabies), or property damage.
• A child sustained injuries from a dog bite or attack.
• The dog approached the victim menacingly, causing justified fear of injury.
• To hold negligent dog owners accountable.
• To raise awareness about pet owner negligence.

If you are unsure whether your situation qualifies, speak to an Ohio dog bite attorney immediately.

When Can’t You Sue for a Dog Bite in Ohio?

In Ohio, dog owners typically cannot be held liable if:

• You were trespassing at the time of the attack.
• You provoked or abused the dog.
• You were committing or attempting a criminal act beyond a minor misdemeanor.

Navigating the Dog Bite Lawsuit Process in Ohio

Even minor dog bite injuries might warrant a claim, but severe injuries often require filing a lawsuit for fair compensation. A knowledgeable dog bite lawyer will help you file a complaint detailing your allegations and represent you throughout the legal process.

Discovery & Evidence

Discovery is a critical phase in dog bite cases, during which your attorney gathers evidence to support your claim. Your lawyer will collect expert testimony, witness statements, and medical documentation to build a strong case and counter any claims made by the defense.

Liability in Ohio Dog Bite Cases

Several parties can potentially be liable in a dog bite case, including:

• Dog owners (registered owners responsible for the pet).
• Handlers or keepers (individuals responsible for the dog, such as police officers).
• Harborers (property owners allowing the dog to reside on their premises).

Typically, landlords and other third parties are not held liable unless specific negligence can be proven.

Compensation for Ohio Dog Bite Victims

Ohio dog bite injury victims often experience significant physical, emotional, and financial consequences. You may recover compensation for:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Rehabilitation expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish

Ohio’s Dog Bite Statute of Limitations

In Ohio, you generally have six years from the date of the dog bite to file a lawsuit. If the victim is a minor, the six-year statute of limitations begins on their 18th birthday. Failure to act within this timeframe can prevent you from obtaining compensation, so contacting an Ohio dog bite lawyer promptly is crucial.

After a Dog Bite in Ohio, Call KNR

A dog bite or related injury can leave you with severe emotional and physical injuries. To recover fully, you may need to pay hefty medical bills, miss out on work or daily life, and manage out-of-pocket expenses. It can be stressful wondering how to cover the cost of your dog bite accident in Ohio, which is why legal help is here.

Kisline, Nestico & Redick, LLC has fought for Ohio dog bite injury victims for decades, earning our clients millions of dollars. Trust our legal team to handle the burden of your case so you can focus on a full recovery.

Contact KNR at 1-800-HURT-NOW or online to schedule a free legal consultation over your dog bite case.