Cincinnati Dog Bite Lawyers
For Local, Award-Winning Representation contact the Dog Bite Lawyers of Treleven Klingensmith at 513-999-5297 for a free consultation.
Ohio Dog Bite Laws
In Ohio, dog bites and attacks are a matter of serious legal concern. This article aims to elucidate the dog bite laws in Ohio, providing clarity to victims, dog owners, and the general public on the legal implications of such incidents.
Ohio's Strict Liability Statute
Ohio operates under a "strict liability" statute when it comes to dog bites. This means that a dog owner is generally held liable for any injuries their dog causes, regardless of the dog's previous behavior. This law is outlined in Ohio Revised Code Section 955.28(B).
Exceptions to Strict Liability
While Ohio's strict liability rule is comprehensive, there are exceptions. These include:
Trespassing: If the victim was trespassing on the dog owner's property at the time of the attack.
Provocation: If the dog was provoked, teased, or tormented by the victim.
Committing a Crime: If the victim was committing a crime or attempting to commit a crime against the dog owner or another person.
What Does Strict Liability Cover?
Under Ohio law, dog owners may be responsible for:
Medical Expenses: This includes immediate medical care and any long-term treatment due to the injury.
Lost Wages: If the victim missed work due to their injuries.
Pain and Suffering: This covers physical and emotional distress caused by the dog bite.
The Role of Local Ordinances
In addition to state laws, local municipalities in Ohio may have their own ordinances regarding dogs, potentially including breed-specific legislation or additional requirements for dog owners.
What Should Dog Bite Victims Do?
Victims of dog bites should:
Seek Medical Attention: Immediate medical care is crucial for health and documentation purposes.
Report the Incident: Report the bite to local authorities and animal control.
Document Everything: Keep records of medical treatments, expenses, and any communication regarding the incident.
Consult a Lawyer: Consider consulting a lawyer experienced in Ohio's dog bite laws to understand your rights and options.
Responsibilities of Dog Owners
Dog owners in Ohio should:
Ensure their dog is properly secured and controlled.
Be aware of local ordinances and breed-specific laws.
Have liability insurance that covers dog bites, if possible.
Ohio's dog bite laws are designed to protect victims while also considering the circumstances of each incident. Understanding these laws is crucial for both victims and dog owners. Victims should contact our office to navigate these laws effectively, and dog owners should take proactive steps to prevent incidents and understand their liabilities.
This overview offers a basic understanding, but dog bite law can be complex and situational. For specific legal advice, contact Treleven & Klingensmith for a free consultation.
Why Us?
Client Focused Approach. We are not a “big box” firm. Every client is different. Every dog bite is different. We make sure your priorities are our priorities. We are available 24/7 to answer your questions. We do not disappear after you sign the fee agreement.
Treatment First. Your and your family’s health is our priority.
Simple, Fair Fee Agreement. We work on a contingency fee agreement, meaning you do not pay us anything out-of-pocket. Our fee is paid from the settlement proceeds or if there is a trial, from the judgement. We do not get paid unless you recover. We will never take a fee greater than your recovery.
Experienced Award-Winning Representation. We have been chosen by the readers of CityBeat four straight years as the best law firm. We have won Community Choice Awards, named to Super Lawyers and are rated A+ by the BBB.
How Does The Process Work?
Call or send us an email to setup a free consultation.
Once you retain our services, we begin to gather your medical records, background information and evidence. We will send out letters of representation to all insurance companies and health care providers involved.
Treatment. Get healthy. We have 2-years until the statute of limitations runs out and longer if the victim of the dog bite is a minor. We want to make sure your doctor(s) have finished treating you before we begin the settlement negotiations.
Once treatment is complete we will make a demand to the insurance company and begin settlement negotiations.
If we fail to reach an agreement with the insurance company, the next step is a lawsuit. We do not shy away from filing a lawsuit with our years of courtroom experience.
Your.
Local.
Award-Winning.
Attorneys.
We are available 24/7 to answer any question you have.
Contact us today at 513.999.5297
