Cincinnati Dog Bite Lawyers

Dog Attacks & Dog Bite Injuries in Cincinnati

Dog bites can range from minor nips to life-threatening attacks. Cincinnati sees numerous dog bite incidents every year, with the Ohio Department of Health reporting thousands of dog bites annually.

In Hamilton County, incidents often occur in parks, residential neighborhoods, and even while victims are working in homes or visiting friends.

A nip might cause a small puncture, and you might feel like little harm was done. But dog attacks also can be severe and deadly. Large, strong dog breeds can break bones and cause disfiguring injuries. In addition, any size dog can cause an infection, which can be harmful if not properly treated. The most recent data available from the CDC stated about 799,700 people in the U.S. required medical care for dog bites, with the highest injury rate among children.

Why Do Dogs Bite

Dogs may bite due to fear, anxiety, or feeling threatened. Common triggers include territorial behavior, lack of proper training, or protecting their owners. Children, due to their size and unpredictability, are often the most vulnerable.

What are Some Common Dog Bite Injuries

• Puncture wounds and lacerations: These can damage muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
• Broken bones: Large breeds can exert enough force to fracture bones.
• Infections: Injuries can become infected, leading to serious conditions like Rabies, Tetanus, or Pasteurella.
• Disfigurement: Dog bites often leave permanent scars and damage.
• Psychological trauma: Victims may experience PTSD, particularly children who are at higher risk for emotional scars.

Read What Dog Breeds Frequently Bite Humans?

Rabies From Dog Bites

Rabies is a rare but serious risk. Dogs get the rabies vaccine, but according to the CDC, dogs account for about 1% of all rabid animals each year.

Tetanus From a Dog Bite

Tetanus, also known as lockjaw, is a severe bacterial infection. The risk of tetanus from a dog bite is small because of the tetanus vaccine. The CDC reported there are about 30 cases of tetanus in the U.S. each year.

Pasteurella From a Dog Bite

Most Pasteurella infections are the result of cat or dog bites or scratches. This bacterium can be found in about half of dog bite injuries, and up to 18% become infected. Always clean a dog bite wound well and see a doctor to reduce the risk of infection.

PTSD From Dog Attacks

Being attacked by a dog can cause significant psychological trauma. Depending on the severity and wounds, you might need counseling or be diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. Studies have linked PTSD in children and dog bites.

Cincinnati Dog Bite Laws & Owner Liability

Ohio has a strict liability law for dog bites, meaning that a dog’s owner can be held responsible for injuries even if the dog has never bitten before or shown aggressive behavior. The one-bite rule, which is applicable in some states, does not apply in Ohio.

Under Ohio Revised Code 955.28, dog owners can be held liable if their dog bites or injures someone while off-leash or if they failed to control the dog properly, regardless of prior behavior. Additionally, Cincinnati has leash laws that require dogs to be restrained in public, reducing the risk of attacks.

What To Do After a Dog Bite in Cincinnati, OH

If a dog bites you, follow these steps to protect your health and legal rights:

• Seek medical attention immediately for the bite. Even small bites can lead to infection.
• Report the incident to Hamilton County Animal Care & Control to document the attack.
• Document the scene by taking photos of your injuries, the location, and any visible signs of the dog.
• Collect information from the dog owner, including their contact information and whether the dog is vaccinated.
• Contact KNR to discuss your options for compensation and legal action.

What to do if a Dog Bites Your Child in Ohio

What To Expect After After a Dog Attack in Cincinnati, OH?

If a dog bit you, you may pursue funds for a number of losses that include, but are not limited to:

• Medical expenses
• Loss of consortium, or loss of familial relationships
• Lost income
• Mental anguish
• Disfigurement
• Physical impairment
• Pain and suffering

Read Does Your Settlement Cover Future Medical Costs?

Insurance Considerations in Dog Bite Cases

In many dog bite cases, the dog’s owner may have homeowners’ or renters’ insurance that can cover damages. However, insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts, offering settlements that don’t fully compensate victims for their losses. At KNR, we negotiate aggressively with insurers to ensure you receive the maximum compensation.

KNR has helped numerous dog bite victims in and around Cincinnati get compensation for their needs. Let our dog bite lawyers guide you through the legal process, help you get treatment, negotiate with the insurance company, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Set Up Your Free Consult