The majority of dogs are loving, loyal creatures who would never intentionally cause harm. However, even the smallest dogs can cause great harm when provoked or attacked. Dog bite injuries can require physical therapy, reconstructive surgery and other serious interventions. Victims may choose to file a lawsuit against the dog’s owner to recover some of these costs.
Does the breed matter?
Clients often wonder whether a dog’s breed will affect their case, either positively or negatively. We’ve all heard horror stories about “bully breeds.” According to Dogtime, “Bully dog breeds are generally not aggressive when given a proper home and socialization training, but like any other dog, humans can teach them bad habits. Most bully dogs are happy, family companions who are protective and loving, especially toward children in their homes.”
On the other hand, Time reports that “Pit bulls make up only 6 percent of the dog population, but they’re responsible for 68 percent of dog attacks and 52 percent of dog-related deaths since 1982, according to research compiled by Merritt Clifton, editor of Animals 24-7, an animal-news organization that focuses on humane work and animal-cruelty prevention.”
Despite these sobering statistics, the breed may not matter in your case. Ohio is a strict liability dog bite state. That means that every Ohio dog owner is legally responsible for each bite their dog inflicts—even the first one. Once a dog has bitten or attacked a person, they must be registered as a dangerous dog. This subjects the owner and their dog to further restrictions, including leash length, where they’re kept and what kind of tags they wear.
Dog bite negligence cases
If the dog owner, harborer or keeper’s conduct was particularly egregious, you may be eligible to file a negligence claim. If the owner, harborer or keeper knew that the dog was dangerous, failed to take appropriate precautions (or encouraged the dog to attack) and you suffered actual harm as a result, you’re more likely to succeed on that claim.
Damages for dog bite cases include medical costs, pain and suffering, disfigurement, lost wages and more. Your attorney can explain how Ohio’s damage caps may affect your overall award, and what you’re most likely to recover.
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, regardless of the breed, call the Law Offices of Tim Misny for help. We’ll fight to make sure your rights are protected.
Talk to an Ohio dog bite lawyer today
Regardless of breed, dog owners have a responsibility to control their animals. Whether a dog owner is legally negligent or otherwise, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call me today at (877) 614-9524 for a consultation. You deserve compensation for your injuries and recovery.
