Most dogs are friendly pets, but when they see someone who is unfamiliar or who is behaving suspiciously, they may bite. Being attacked by a dog can be a terrifying experience, leaving victims with both physical injuries and emotional trauma. In Urbana as throughout Ohio, dog bites are a serious issue, and victims have the right to seek compensation for their injuries. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, you need skilled legal representation to hold the responsible party accountable. At Kruger & Hodges, our Urbana dog bite lawyers have extensive experience handling dog bite cases and are dedicated to helping Urbana residents secure the compensation they deserve.
Why Hire a Dog Bite Lawyer in Urbana, Ohio?
Dog bite cases can be legally complex, especially when it comes to determining liability and calculating the full extent of your damages. Ohio’s dog bite laws are strict, but dealing with insurance companies, medical bills, and the legal process can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in. Our team of dog bite lawyers is ready to fight for your rights and help you recover the maximum compensation for your injuries.
Ohio’s Strict Liability Law for Dog Bites
Ohio is a “strict liability” state when it comes to dog bites. This means that dog owners are legally responsible for injuries their pets cause, regardless of whether the dog has shown aggressive behavior before or if the owner was aware of any dangerous tendencies. The law applies to public and private property, as long as the victim was lawfully on the property at the time of the attack.
In Urbana and across the state, this law ensures that victims can seek compensation without having to prove that the dog owner was negligent. However, navigating the legal system to enforce your rights requires expertise, and that’s where our lawyers at Kruger & Hodges can help.
Common Injuries from Dog Bites
You might think that dog bites can’t cause serious injuries, but they can. Dog attacks can result in a range of injuries, from minor to life-threatening. Some of the most common injuries our clients face after a dog bite include:
Puncture Wounds: The dog’s teeth can pierce the skin, muscles, and tendons, leading to infections and scarring.
Lacerations and Cuts: Dogs often cause severe cuts that may require stitches or even major surgery.
Broken Bones: The force of a dog’s bite can fracture bones, especially in the hands, and feet.
Facial Injuries: Attacks that target the face can lead to permanent scarring, disfigurement, and the need for reconstructive surgery.
Nerve Damage: Dog bites can cause damage to nerves, leading to long-term loss of sensation or movement in affected areas.
Infections: Dog bites can introduce bacteria into the body, leading to infections like tetanus, MRSA, or rabies in rare cases.
Emotional Trauma: Many dog bite victims experience anxiety, PTSD, and fear of animals long after the physical injuries have healed.
At Kruger & Hodges, we understand the full extent of the damage that a dog bite can cause, both physically and emotionally. That’s why we fight to ensure our clients are compensated for not only their medical bills but also their pain, suffering, and any long-term effects of the attack. You always can speak with our legal team to review your case and fight for your rights.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Urbana
If you or a loved one is bitten by a dog in Urbana, taking the right steps can protect your health and strengthen your legal claim:
Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety are the top priorities. Even if the bite seems minor, it’s essential to have it evaluated by a doctor. Dog bites can cause serious infections, and some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Report the Bite to Authorities: Contact the Urbana Police Department or the Champaign County Animal Control to report the dog bite. An official report will help document the incident and may be necessary for your legal claim.
Identify the Dog and Its Owner: If possible, try to gather information about the dog and its owner. Obtain the owner’s contact information, as well as any vaccination records for the dog, particularly for rabies.
Document Your Injuries: Take photos of your injuries, torn clothing, and the location where the bite occurred. Keeping detailed records will help support your case.
Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer: After receiving medical care, it’s important to contact our experienced dog bite lawyers. Our team will guide you through the legal process, handle insurance companies, and help you secure compensation for your injuries.
Compensation for Dog Bite Victims in Urbana
The aftermath of a dog bite can be overwhelming, especially when medical bills and other expenses start to pile up. Victims may be entitled to compensation for various types of damages, including:
Medical Expenses
From emergency room visits and surgeries to physical therapy and ongoing medical treatment, dog bite injuries often require extensive care. We will seek compensation to cover all of your medical bills, both past and future, related to the dog bite.
Lost Wages
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This includes not only the income you’ve already lost but also future earnings if your ability to work is permanently impacted.
Pain and Suffering
The physical pain and emotional trauma caused by a dog attack are significant. While no amount of money can erase the emotional scars, compensation for pain and suffering can provide some level of justice.
Disfigurement and Scarring
Dog bites can leave victims with permanent scars or disfigurement, especially when the face or hands are involved. Compensation may be awarded to help cover the costs of reconstructive surgery or to address the long-term emotional impact of visible scars.
Emotional Distress
The psychological impact of a dog bite can be severe. Many victims experience anxiety, depression, or PTSD after an attack. We will seek compensation for the emotional toll the attack has taken on you or your loved one.
Property Damage
In some cases, a dog attack may result in damage to personal property, such as clothing or eyeglasses. We will help you recover the cost of repairing or replacing these items.
Holding Negligent Dog Owners Accountable
While Ohio’s strict liability law simplifies the process for victims, some exceptions and defenses may apply. For example, dog owners may claim that the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing on private property. In these cases, having a knowledgeable dog bite attorney is crucial to building a strong case and refuting any false claims.
Our team at Kruger & Hodges will work tirelessly to ensure that victims of dog attacks in Urbana get the justice they deserve. If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to court to secure fair compensation.
Contact Our Urbana, Ohio Dog Bite Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Urbana, Ohio, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Contact Kruger & Hodges today for a FREE consultation. Our experienced dog bite attorneys are here to guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Let us handle the legal burden so you can focus on your recovery.
