Over 16,568 dog bites were reported in Ohio in 2023, injuring owners and non-owners in the process. While some dogs wag their tails and give you kisses, others can attack for seemingly no reason. Our Colerain Township Dog Bite Lawyers know that:
- Even friendly dogs can attack
- Victims are left in complicated situations
- Pain, suffering and medical bills are overwhelming
At Kruger & Hodges, we’ll fight on your behalf to pursue the compensation that you deserve for your injuries.
Contact us for a free consultation and to learn if you have a case.
Ohio Dog Bite Laws
Section 955.28 of Ohio’s Revised Code states that the owner is liable for any loss, injury or death caused by the dog. Even if the bite is the first offense, the dog owner is responsible for the actions of the animal.
Dogs that have bitten or attacked in the past must also be on a leash that is six feet or less in length or kept in a locked yard or cage to prevent future incidents.
If you’re a victim of a dog bite, liability falls on the owner, with only a few exceptions that apply.
For a free legal consultation, call 513-894-3333
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Our Colerain Township dog bite lawyers help victims seek the compensation they deserve for their injuries. Common injuries that we see are:
- Bone fractures
- Infection
- Puncture wounds
- Nerve damage
- Scars
- Eye injuries
- Many others
Your injuries can impact you for a lifetime. Owners, even with strict liability, will try to defend their animal’s actions to avoid having to pay damages.
Colerain Township Personal Injury Lawyer Near Me 513-894-3333
Who Pays for Dog Bite Injuries?
Victims can pursue damages for their injuries from the dog owner directly. You may seek damages from:
- Homeowner’s insurance policies
- Landlords
- Rental companies
If multiple parties are negligent for the attack, each may be held liable for the damages you sustain. We’ll review the facts surrounding your case to identify which party or parties are liable for your damages.
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What Preventative Measures Can You Take to Avoid Dog Bites?
Dog attacks are often random, leaving you little time to react to a swift, agile animal. You may be able to prevent attacks by:
- Avoiding dogs
- Staying away from stressed or sick animals
- Never approaching a dog that you don’t know
Be alert to dangerous situations and teach your kids to do the same. If a dog is present, do not disturb them if they’re nursing or have puppies and do not run by a dog that may naturally chase you.
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What to Do First After an Attack
If you or a loved one has been attacked by a dog:
- Seek medical attention
- Attempt to determine who was responsible for the dog at the time of the accident
- Start your search for Colerain dog bite lawyers
The first and most important thing is your health. Even if your injuries seem minor, it is crucial to seek medical care right away.
Once you have sought care for your injuries, the next step is to find a dog bite lawyer who can assist you with your claim.
Do I Have a Case? What is My Case Worth?
Because Ohio is a strict liability state, owners are held liable for damages or injuries caused by their dogs regardless of whether the animal was deemed dangerous or if negligence was involved.
If you were injured in a dog attack, you likely have a case.
However, there are some exceptions to the strict liability law. You may not have a case if:
- You were committing a crime at the time of the incident (e.g., trespassing)
- The dog was provoked (teased, tormented, abused, etc.)
If you were at the location lawfully and did not provoke the dog, the owner can be held liable for your injuries.
Determining the value of your case is a bit more complex. There are several factors that can impact the value of your settlement, including:
- The severity of your injuries
- Your medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Level of pain and suffering
An experienced dog bite attorney can help you determine whether you have a valid claim and how much your case is worth based on the circumstances of the incident.
How to Choose A Dog Bite Lawyer
Dog bite injuries can have long-term effects and require ongoing medical care or costly procedures. You have one opportunity to file a claim. The right lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome.
Here are a few important things to consider when choosing an attorney:
- Experience with dog bite injury cases. A lawyer who has handled cases involving dog bite injuries will understand the impact of your injuries, how to overcome common challenges you may face and how to calculate the value of your claim.
- Track record of success. Does the lawyer get results for clients? A lawyer with a positive track record can help you achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
- Positive reputation with clients. What do clients have to say about their experience with the firm? Positive reviews are a good indication that the firm will deliver an exceptional experience.
Don’t overlook the importance of a personality match. Do you feel comfortable with the lawyer? Do you find them trustworthy?
Your lawyer should be happy to answer your questions, explain the process in simple terms and help you navigate the road ahead.
How Kruger & Hodges Can Help with Your Colerain Dog Bite Claim
At Kruger & Hodges, we know that an injury can impact your life in many ways. You may be feeling unsure of which steps to take next and wondering whether you have a valid claim.
Our compassionate Colerain Township dog bite lawyers are here to help.
We have the ability to assist clients with their dog bite claims and obtain the compensation they need for medical care, lost wages and other losses.
Contact our firm today to discuss your case and next steps.
Call or text 513-894-3333 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form