Dog Bite Ohio Law
In Ohio, it is illegal for a dog to cause injury to another person or property. Dog bite victims can pursue legal compensation for any damage the animal may have caused them through a personal injury claim. Learn more about the laws and regulations surrounding these types of cases in Ohio here.
Ohio Dog Bite Statute and Strict Liability.
Ohio's Dog Bite Statute follows a strict liability policy, meaning dog owners are "automatically" held responsible for any injuries their pets cause. In accordance with Ohio statute, victims can pursue compensation to cover medical expenses and pain and suffering caused by the dog bite incident. Victims may be able to seek punitive damages if it is shown that the owner knew their pet was dangerous or had caused injury in the past.
Negligence Actions for Dog Bite Cases in Ohio.
In some cases, victims of dog bites may have to file a negligence-based liability claim in order to recover compensation. Negligence is a willful or accidental act that causes injury and when it comes to dog bite incidents, the most common areas of negligence are inadequate fencing, failure to warn others about dangerous animals, not properly restraining or controlling pets and improper supervision. There are other specific circumstances under which an owner or keeper may be held liable for a dog bite-related incident, such as if they ordered the animal to attack another person.s.
Time Limit for Filing a Dog Bite Claim in Ohio.
A claim to recover financial damages related to a dog bite incident should be filed within one of the incident so that the evidence is available, even if the statute of limitations is longer. This time limit, may be waived in certain situations so it’s best to speak to an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Additionally, it’s important for the victims know their rights and consider the possibility of filing a claim if they believe that their injury was caused by someone else’s negligence.
Types of Damages Recoverable for Dog Bites in Ohio.
Although the specifics of a case will determine the ultimate award, victims may be eligible to receive compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, anxiety, and other forms of financial harm. This may also include punitive damages that are designed to punish the owner for particularly reckless or dangerous behavior. You can reach our law firm at (614) 221-9800.
Defenses to a Dog Bite Claim in Ohio.
When a dog bite claim is brought in the state of Ohio, there are several potential defenses that could be used by the owner or keeper. These include provocation of the animal, trespassing on property where a “Beware of Dog” was prominently posted, or contributory negligence by the plaintiff (the person who was bitten). It is important for victims to hire an experienced attorney to help ensure that their rights are protected and maximize any compensation they may receive. To learn about how our Ohio lawyers can help, call us at 888-200-9824.