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A Dog Bite Leaves More Than a Physical Injury

Dog attacks happen suddenly, but the effects can last for months or longer. Many people suffer puncture wounds, infections, scarring, nerve damage, and lingering pain. Others experience anxiety, sleep disruption, or a lasting fear of dogs that affects daily life. Children are particularly vulnerable, and families often struggle with both medical concerns and emotional fallout after an attack.

These cases can feel uncomfortable because the dog often belongs to a neighbor, friend, or family member. Wanting to avoid conflict does not mean you should absorb the financial and emotional cost alone. 

Working with a dog bite attorney in Cleveland, OH allows you to pursue accountability in a respectful way that focuses on your recovery and well-being. After an accident, the stress of dealing with insurance companies can feel like a second injury. We take that pressure off you so you can heal and take care of your family.

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What Is a Dog Bite Claim?

A dog bite claim is a personal injury claim seeking compensation when a dog attack causes injury. Ohio law generally holds dog owners responsible for harm caused by their dog, even if the animal has never bitten anyone before. Compensation may include medical expenses, lost income, scarring, and emotional distress related to the attack. Ohio’s dog bite liability rules are outlined in Ohio Revised Code Section 955.28, which explains when owners may be held legally responsible. For general information about injury rights and the claims process, Ohio Legal Help provides accessible guidance that many people find useful.

Cases Won Real Outcomes for Real People

$3.6 Million

Retained by a family who were in disbelief of the news reports...

Retained by a family who were in disbelief of the news reports that characterized their elderly father as a reckless motorcyclist. After a complex accident reconstruction identified the negligence of multiple parties, the case was settled during a second private mediation.

Motorcycle Accident | Marysville, Ohio

$1.6 Million

The primary harm in this case was residual scarring and deformity as...

The primary harm in this case was residual scarring and deformity as a result of the injury. Unfortunately, Ohio has a cap of $250,000 for non-economic damages, with no exceptions, for cases against political subdivisions. Through a comprehensive case work up and well versed arguments presenting a real threat to challenging the constitutionality of caps on damages, we were able to negotiate a higher settlement than what was provided under the law.

Pedestrian Accident | Columbus, Ohio

$1.3 Million

A box truck driver failed to yield the right of way to...

A box truck driver failed to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic when turning left, causing a serious collision with three young adult siblings.  TSF was engaged to serve as local counsel to assist with the litigation, mediation, and resolution of the case.

Truck Accident | Columbus, Ohio

$600,000

A box truck driver failed to yield the right of way to...

A box truck driver failed to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic when turning left and turned in front of a motorcyclist, causing serious injury. An accident reconstructionist was retained to disprove inflammatory witness accounts of speed, as motorcyclists are commonly accused of speeding due to the sound of their bike. 

Motorcycle Accident | Columbus, Ohio

$500,000

Inexperienced driver failed to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic...

Inexperienced driver failed to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic when turning left, causing a serious collision with an oncoming motorist. Client sustained serious injuries requring extensive hospitalization and rehab.  He and his wife heavily relied upon counsel to guide them through the maze of medical bills and insurance claims so they could focus on healing and recovery.  Settlement was further maximized through negotiations with multiple lienholders.

Car Accident | Galion, Ohio

$135,000

Dog bit nose of adult visitor to home.  Retained plastic surgery expert...

Dog bit nose of adult visitor to home.  Retained plastic surgery expert to demonstrate permanency of scarring to enhance case value

Dog Bite | Marysville, Ohio

$100,000

At-fault driver failed to yield on a left hand turn, causing crash...

At-fault driver failed to yield on a left hand turn, causing crash and injury to college aged passenger. Policy limits settlement offer obtained despite minimal medical treatment options and $5,000 in medical bills. Client was unsure how to protect her concern for permanent injury and retained counsel to help her obtain expert testimony to document permanent injury to justify the policy limits settlement.

Car Accident | Mentor, Ohio
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How a Dog Bite Attorney Can Help

  • Clear Guidance Through a Sensitive Situation: Dog bite cases often involve people you know. A dog bite attorney helps manage the legal process professionally while protecting your right to recover damages.
  • Thorough Documentation of Physical and Emotional Harm: Dog bites can lead to infection, nerve injury, scarring, and psychological trauma. A strong claim connects medical treatment and emotional impact to the real cost of the injury.
  • Protection From Insurance Minimization: Insurance companies often try to resolve dog bite cases quickly and cheaply. A dog bite lawyer helps ensure injuries, scarring, and ongoing treatment needs are taken seriously.
  • A Strategy Built Around Your Goals: Some clients want a quick resolution, while others need time for treatment and documentation. We work with you to choose an approach that supports healing and peace of mind.
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Do I Need a Dog Bite Lawyer in Cleveland, OH?

You should consider legal guidance if the bite required medical care, caused scarring, resulted in infection, or left you with lingering pain or anxiety. Speaking with a lawyer is also important if the dog owner denies responsibility or if an insurer pressures you to settle before the full impact is clear.

Dog bite injuries can worsen over time, especially when nerve damage, infection, or emotional trauma develops. Early guidance helps ensure your claim reflects the complete injury, not just what is visible immediately after the attack.

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Available 24/7 (216) 425-0336

Dog Bite Case What to Expect

Step One: A Conversation Focused on Injury and Recovery

We begin by learning what happened, what treatment you received, and how the injury is affecting your daily life. We discuss your concerns, priorities, and what outcome would feel fair to you.

Step Two: Evidence and Medical Documentation

We gather medical records, photographs, witness statements, and information about dog ownership and insurance coverage. This evidence helps establish both liability and injury severity.

Step Three: Claim Development and Negotiation

Once the injury picture is clear, we build a claim reflecting medical costs, future treatment, wage loss, scarring, and emotional distress when applicable. We negotiate for a resolution that reflects the true impact.

Step Four: Litigation When Necessary

Most dog bite cases resolve through settlement, but litigation may be required if the insurer refuses to act reasonably. We prepare every case thoroughly so you are protected either way.

Our team prepares every case with the strength to go to trial if needed. But even when a lawsuit is filed, many cases still resolve through settlement before trial ever becomes necessary.

Common Injuries From Dog Attacks

Dog bites can cause serious and lasting harm, including:

  • Deep puncture wounds and tissue damage
  • Infection and complications requiring follow-up care
  • Scarring or disfigurement, especially to the face or hands
  • Nerve damage and loss of sensation
  • Fractures or crush injuries in severe attacks
  • Emotional trauma, including fear of dogs and anxiety
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Meet Your Ohio Personal Injury Attorneys

Proven Leaders in Ohio Personal Injury Law

Our team of local attorneys were hand-selected for their experience and leadership in client service, top legal organizations, and our communities.

Founder

Nathan J. Stuckey

  • Immediate Past President of Ohio Association for Justice
  • The National Trial Lawyers, Top 100
  • Ohio Super Lawyers
Read Nathan's Bio

Partner

Sydney S. McLafferty

  • Past President, Ohio Association for Justice
  • Active Member, American Association of Justice
  • National Women’s Trial Lawyers, Top 25
Read Sydney's Bio

Partner

J. Michael Vervoort

  • Board Member, Ohio Association for Justice
  • Member, American Association for Justice
  • Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys
Read Michael's Bio

Attorney

Paul (PJ) Jacob Ratcliffe

  • Member, West Virginia Association for Justice
  • Member, Ohio Association for Justice
  • Member, American Association for Justice
Read Paul's Bio

Attorney

Christian W. Sorg

  • Member, Ohio Association for Justice
  • Member, Clark County Bar Association
  • Founding Board Member, Recon & Sniper Foundation
Read Christian's Bio

Attorney

James E. Heath

  • Past President, Clark County Bar Association
  • Board Member, Clark County Sportsman’s Club
  • Former Captian, U.S. Army JAG Corps
Read James's Bio

Of Counsel

Christian R. Patno

  • Of Counsel
  • President, American Board of Trial Advocates
  • Fellow, Litigation Counsel of America
Read Christian's Bio

“I was attacked by a dog on someone’s personal property and needed a personal injury attorney. From the first conversation, I knew The Stuckey Firm was the right choice. I never felt like just another case, and they truly cared about the trauma I experienced.”

—M.M.

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Why Choose The Stuckey Firm?

A Client-First Firm That Works With You

Dog bite cases are personal, and many clients feel conflicted about pursuing a claim. We work with you, not just for you, helping you understand options and choose a path that protects your health while respecting your circumstances.

Trial-Ready Preparation That Protects Your Claim

Even straightforward dog bite cases can be challenged. We document injuries carefully, prepare thoroughly, and pursue outcomes that reflect the full reality of what you experienced.

Credibility That Commands Attention

A dog bite attorney on our team is respected statewide for bringing well-prepared claims. That credibility matters when insurers attempt to minimize injuries, deny long-term effects, or pressure for a quick settlement.

Dog Bite Frequently Asked Questions

Does Ohio law hold dog owners responsible if the dog has never bitten before?

In many cases, yes. Ohio law often holds dog owners liable regardless of prior behavior, though specific facts and defenses can matter.

Can I file a claim if the dog belongs to someone I know?

Yes. Many claims are resolved through homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, not directly out of the owner’s pocket.

How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Ohio?

Deadlines depend on the circumstances. Because delays can affect evidence and legal rights, it is best to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.

What should I do after a dog bite?

Seek medical care immediately, document the injury with photos, and report the incident. Early documentation helps protect your health and your claim.

Can scarring and emotional trauma be included in a claim?

Yes. Visible scarring and psychological effects, such as anxiety or fear, can be part of a dog bite claim when properly documented.

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Talk With Dog Bite Attorneys

If you were bitten by a dog and are unsure whether legal action is appropriate, we are here to help. Contact The Stuckey Firm to schedule a confidential consultation with dog bite lawyers in Cleveland and get clear guidance focused on your recovery, your options, and your peace of mind.

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If you’re unsure what to do next, we’re here to listen and help you understand your options

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