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Understanding Dog Bite Law in Ohio

Ohio follows a strict liability rule for dog bite cases. Under Ohio Revised Code § 955.28(B), the dog’s owner is responsible for injuries caused by their dog. All you need to prove is that the dog was in the care of the responsible party. However, there are some exceptions to this rule:

  • If you were committing a crime or trespassing when the bite occurred
  • If you were teasing, tormenting, or abusing the dog on the owner’s property

These exceptions apply in wrongful death cases as well. If you or a loved one has been affected by a dog bite, our team can review your case and discuss your legal options.

Liability for a Dog Bite in New Albany, Ohio

In Ohio, the dog’s owner is primarily responsible for any harm the dog causes.

However, other parties may also be held accountable under certain circumstances:

  • Harborers are those who own or control the property where the dog lives, such as homeowners, apartment complexes, or businesses.
  • Keepers are individuals who temporarily care for the dog, such as dog walkers or those in charge of boarding kennels.

Figuring out who is responsible for your injuries is an important step in your case. New Albany dog bite attorneys are here to help you understand who was in control of the dog when the bite happened and explore the insurance options that can support your claim.

Can You Sue for a Dog Bite in Ohio?

If a dog has injured you, state law allows you to bring a claim against the dog’s owner or another party responsible for the animal’s actions. Whether it’s a bite, scratch, or another injury caused by someone else’s dog, you may have the right to seek justice. Injuries from a dog bite may include:

  • Puncture wounds from bites
  • Broken bones or fractures
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Injuries to the head, face, or neck
  • Eye trauma
  • Nerve damage
  • Damage to muscles, tendons, or ligaments, especially in the extremities
  • Emotional distress following the attack

It’s important to get medical attention as soon as possible so your injuries are properly documented. Also, be sure to keep track of any financial or emotional losses you’ve experienced because of the injury, as this will play a big role in supporting your claim.

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Compensation for a Dog Bite

If a dog has bitten you, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. New Albany dog bite attorneys will carefully evaluate your case to identify all potential damages. Possible damages may include:

  • Medical expenses, both current and future
  • Costs for ongoing care, surgery, or rehabilitation
  • Lost wages and loss of future earning potential
  • Scarring, disfigurement, or disability
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress or loss of enjoyment of life

Dog bite injuries can be costly, not just physically and financially, but emotionally, especially for children. Dog bite attorneys in New Albany can gather evidence and consult with experts to fully understand the extent of your injuries and losses. 

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$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.

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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

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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

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$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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What if You’re Accused of Causing the Dog Bite?

In New Albany, dog owners, keepers, harborers, and their insurance companies often try to shift the blame onto victims when a dog bite occurs. They might claim that you provoked the dog or were trespassing in an attempt to avoid responsibility for the injuries caused.

Proving you didn’t provoke the dog or weren’t trespassing can be challenging. Eyewitness testimony is often key to showing that you weren’t at fault and that the blame lies with the responsible party.

Witnesses and evidence can help if you were going door-to-door for sales or volunteering, as Ohio law protects individuals in these situations. If you’ve been accused of causing a dog bite, reach out to New Albany dog bite attorneys to protect your rights.

Important Time Limits for Dog Bite Claims in Ohio

When it comes to dog bite claims in Ohio, there are key time limits to keep in mind:

  • Personal injury claims, including dog bites, must be filed within two years from the date of the injury (Ohio Revised Code § 2305.10). This deadline is important to make sure you don’t lose your right to pursue your claim.
  • If a child is bitten, the claim must be filed within two years of the victim turning 18 (Ohio Revised Code § 2305.16).
  • Wrongful death claims related to dog bites also have a two-year limit, starting from the date of the victim’s death (Ohio Revised Code § 2125.02).

It’s important to take action as soon as possible. Even if you don’t need to file a lawsuit, waiting too long could prevent you from recovering the damages your family deserves.

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Let a New Albany Dog Bite Lawyer Help You Fight for Your Rights

A dog bite can leave lifelong scars, both physically and emotionally. Having a New Albany dog bite lawyer on your side can help you take action and protect your rights. At The Stuckey Firm, LLC, our team brings over three decades of combined experience to your case. We’re committed to holding those responsible accountable for their actions. You don’t have to handle this on your own—we’re here to support you through the entire process. Reach out today to speak with The Stuckey Firm, LLC. Let us help you get the justice and support you need after a dog bite injury.

Meet Your Ohio Personal Injury Attorneys

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

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Nathan J. Stuckey

  • Immediate Past President of Ohio Association for Justice
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Sydney S. McLafferty

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J. Michael Vervoort

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Paul (PJ) Jacob Ratcliffe

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Christian W. Sorg

  • Member, Ohio Association for Justice
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James E. Heath

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Christian R. Patno

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