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A Dog Bite Leaves More Than a Wound

Dog attacks happen fast, but the impact can last. Many people face puncture wounds, infections, scarring, and nerve damage, along with emotional trauma that makes everyday life feel less safe. Children are especially vulnerable, and families often struggle with fear and uncertainty about what comes next.

These cases can also feel uncomfortable because the dog may belong to someone you know. You may not want conflict, but you still deserve to recover physically and financially. We help you pursue accountability in a way that is respectful, clear, and focused on what is best for you.

Your recovery should come first, and we handle the rest.

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What Is a Dog Bite Claim?

A dog bite claim is a personal injury claim that seeks compensation when a dog attack causes injury. Ohio law generally holds dog owners responsible for harm their dog causes, even if the dog has never bitten before. Claims may involve medical costs, lost income, scarring, and emotional trauma.

If you want to review Ohio’s dog bite liability statute, Ohio Revised Code Section 955.28 outlines key legal standards. For general legal information about injury rights and next steps, Ohio Legal Help can provide additional context.

The Benefits of Working With a Dog Bite Attorney

  • A Clear Path Through an Emotional Situation. Many dog bite cases involve neighbors, friends, or family members. Legal guidance helps you handle the claim respectfully while protecting your right to compensation.
  • Documentation That Supports the Full Injury. Dog bites can involve infection, nerve damage, scarring, and long-term trauma. A thorough approach connects medical care and emotional impact to what the injury has truly cost you.
  • Protection From Insurance Minimization. Insurers often treat dog bites as quick-to-resolve claims. A lawyer helps prevent your injuries, scarring, or ongoing treatment needs from being undervalued.
  • A Case Strategy Built Around Your Goals. Some clients want fast resolution, others need time for treatment and documentation. We work with you to choose the approach that supports your recovery and peace of mind.

We handle the heavy lifting, and even when a lawsuit is filed, many cases resolve without trial.

Does My Situation Require a Dog Bite Lawyer?

You may need legal guidance if the bite required medical treatment, caused scarring, resulted in infection, or has left you with lingering pain or anxiety. You should also consider speaking with a lawyer if the dog owner is denying responsibility or if an insurance company is pressuring you to settle quickly.

Dog bite injuries can worsen over time, especially if nerve damage or trauma symptoms develop. Early guidance helps ensure your claim reflects the full impact, not only what is visible in the first few days.

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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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The Dog Bite Injury Case Process What to Expect

Step One: A Conversation Focused on the Injury and Recovery

We begin by learning what happened, what treatment you received, and how the injury is affecting your daily life. We also discuss what outcome you want and what concerns you have moving forward.

Step Two: Evidence and Medical Documentation

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

Step Three: Claim Development and Negotiation

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

Step Four: Litigation When Necessary

Most dog bite cases resolve through settlement, but litigation may be needed if the insurer refuses to act reasonably. We prepare thoroughly so your case is positioned strongly, either way.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Dog attacks can cause more than puncture wounds. Common injuries include:

  • Deep lacerations and tissue damage
  • Infection and complications requiring follow-up care
  • Scarring or disfigurement, especially on the face or hands
  • Nerve damage and loss of sensation
  • Fractures or crush injuries in severe attacks
  • Emotional trauma, including fear of dogs and post-incident anxiety
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“I was attacked by a dog on someone’s personal property and was in need of a personal injury attorney. As soon as I read the reviews for the Stuckey Firm and talked to Mike Vervoort, I knew almost immediately that he was the one I needed to fight for me. He was knowledgeable, direct, and sympathetic to my situation. I didn’t feel like just another case number. I genuinely felt like he cared about the trauma I had just experienced. He was attentive to my case, he always got back with me promptly, and I sincerely feel like he had my best interest at heart. We have recently settled, and he got me exactly where I wanted to be. I would recommend him and his firm 1000 times over, and I appreciate all his hard work immensely.”

—M.M.

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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
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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
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Of Counsel

Christian R. Patno

  • Of Counsel
  • President, American Board of Trial Advocates
  • Fellow, Litigation Counsel of America
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Why Choose The Stuckey Firm?

A Client-First Firm That Works With You

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

Trial-Ready Preparation That Protects Your Case

Even when a claim seems straightforward, insurers may dispute injury severity, scarring, or long-term impact. We document thoroughly, prepare carefully, and pursue a result that reflects the full reality of what happened.

Credibility That Helps Insurers Take the Claim Seriously

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

Dog Bites Frequently Asked Questions

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

In many cases, yes. Ohio law often holds dog owners liable for injuries their dog causes, even without prior bites. A claim depends on the facts, including where the bite occurred and whether defenses apply.

Can I still 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 pocket for the owner. A lawyer can help you pursue compensation while minimizing unnecessary conflict.

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

Time limits depend on the claim type and circumstances. Because delays can affect evidence and deadlines, it is best to speak with counsel as soon as possible to protect your rights.

What should I do after a dog bite?

Seek medical care, document the injury, and report the incident. Keeping records and photos early helps support your claim and protects against complications like infection or disputed severity.

What if the bite caused scarring or emotional trauma?

Scarring and emotional effects can be part of the claim, especially when the injury is visible or long-lasting. Documentation and appropriate treatment can help show how the bite affected your life.

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Talk With Us After a Dog Bite

If you were bitten by a dog and are unsure whether you should take legal action, we are here to help. Contact The Stuckey Firm for a confidential consultation 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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