Findlay Dog Bite Lawyer

Findlay Dog Bite Lawyer

If a dog bites you while you are on private or public property, our experienced Findlay dog bite lawyers can help you get the justice you deserve. You may be entitled to file a personal injury claim against the dog’s owner to recover damages for your injuries.

At Charles Boyk Law Offices, we have over 40 years of experience helping dog bite victims. Contact our office to speak with our knowledgeable dog bite attorneys for a free case review to start your claim.

Dog Bite Statistics

There is approximately a 1 in 50 chance of being bitten by a dog in the coming year. If a bite occurs, there is a 1 in 6 chance you will need hospital care, which may include surgery and extensive follow up care. Children under the age of 14 are at a higher risk of being bitten and suffering severe injuries and scarring from dog bites.

Across the country, there are around 52 million dogs, and a shocking percentage of those dogs pose serious risks to both adults and children. Over the past decade, several studies suggest a 30 percent increase in reported dog bites, despite only a slight rise in the dog population during this time. Estimates indicate that around 13,000 dog bites happen daily. The medical costs for treating dog bites are significant, often exceeding $100 million annually across the United States.

Don’t become just another statistic. Our Findlay dog bite lawyers are dedicated to fighting for the maximum settlement for your injuries and ensuring that you receive the financial compensation you need.

Pit Bull Attacks

Pit Bulls are often referred to as one of the most dangerous dog breeds as their strength and powerful bite can cause severe injuries, although this reputation is only partially accurate. In Ohio, a significant percentage of fatal dog attacks involve Pit Bulls. These attacks are frequently a result of poor ownership practices rather than the breed’s inherent nature. If you have been injured by a Pit Bull, it is crucial to work with a knowledgeable Findlay dog bite lawyer who can help prove the owner’s negligence and secure the compensation you are entitled to.

Boyk Law Case Example: 89 Year Old Client Bit On Way to Visit Her Grandson

Our client was walking down the street when a pit bull running loose knocked her over and severely bit her right leg. The dog bite was so deep that stitches would not work, and a bone graft was needed to close the wound. We were able to recover the $100,000 policy limits from the owner’s insurance company. We negotiated down the health insurance lien so our client was able to obtain a substantial recovery without filing a lawsuit.

Is a Dog Bite a Felony?

In Ohio, dog owners who have a history of failing to restrain their dogs may face misdemeanor charges if their dog bites someone. However, if a dog causes a fatality due to the owner’s negligence, the case could be elevated to a fourth-degree felony, and the court might order the dog to be euthanized. Serious injuries resulting from a dog bite could also lead to a court order for euthanasia if the situation warrants it.

Bitten on the Face?

If you are bitten on the face by a dog in Findlay, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. This compensation can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and the costs of plastic surgery to repair any facial scarring or damage. You may also be able to claim damages for pain and suffering, as well as emotional trauma resulting from the dog bite. Given the significant medical expenses associated with dog bite injuries, a Findlay dog bite lawyer can assist you in managing these costs and obtaining the compensation you deserve.

Boyk Law Case Example: 11-Year-Old Boy Receives Fair Compensation for His Dog Bite on a Camping Trip

Our client met a friend on a camping trip. He asked to pet the friend’s dog and the dog bit our client on the lip and chin. We achieved a good result of the policy limits of $100,000 by the following strategy: First, we obtained prior dog bite reports and were able to prove the owners new the dog was dangerous. Second, we obtained before and after photos of the boy. Third, we obtained a prognosis report from a board-certified plastic surgeon on future costs for surgery and the permanency of the scarring. We used the settlement to set up an annuity to pay for the boy’s college education.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bites can lead to various types of injuries, including:

  • Scratches, Punctures, and Lacerations: These are common and can range from minor to severe.
  • Disfigurement: Severe bites can cause lasting changes in appearance.
  • Scarring: Scarring from a dog bite can be permanent and affect self-esteem.
  • Broken Bones: Bites that involve a strong grip or attack can lead to fractures.
  • Nerve Damage: Severe bites may cause long-term nerve damage affecting sensation and movement of different parts of the body.
  • Death: In extreme cases, dog attacks can be fatal.

In addition to physical injuries, dog bites can also cause psychological trauma, including PTSD. A skilled Findlay dog bite lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and pursue the compensation needed to cover both physical and emotional damages.

What To Do After a Dog Bite

  1. Cover the Injury and Stop the Bleeding: Apply pressure to the wound with a clean cloth to control bleeding.
  2. Wash the Wound Carefully: Use mild soap and water to thoroughly clean the area.
  3. Take Photos of the Injury: Document the injury with clear photos for evidence.
  4. Use a Sterile Bandage: Apply a sterile bandage to the wound if possible.
  5. Seek Medical Care Immediately: Visit a hospital or clinic to get professional medical treatment. Even if the injury seems minor, a medical professional should examine it to prevent complications like infections. Proper documentation of your medical treatment, including all doctor visits, prescriptions, and bills, is essential for building a strong case. The psychological impact of a dog bite can be severe, especially if the bite is on a visible area or if it causes significant trauma. Victims may experience anxiety, fear of dogs, nightmares, or other emotional distress. Consulting with a mental health professional may also be necessary to address these issues and to document the impact on your life.
  6. Report the Bite to the Local Police: Notify local authorities to file a report and ensure the dog is checked for rabies. If you’re able, request a copy of the report once it’s completed.
  7. Contact Boyk Law for a Free Case Review: Reach out to us for a comprehensive review of your case. If we accept your case, our office will then help with the investigation to pursue the claim.

If you’ve been injured by a dog bite, you have the right to seek compensation for medical bills, emotional trauma, and other damages. An experienced dog bite attorney can help you get the full compensation you deserve and guide you through the legal process.

Can I Sue for a Dog Bite?

Yes, you can sue for damages if you were lawfully on the property when bitten. Dog bite claims are often covered by the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance policy. To succeed, you need to prove that the owner was negligent and that you were injured as a result. Proper documentation of the incident and care of your wound will improve your chances of a successful claim.

Rights If Bitten by a Relative’s Dog

If you are bitten by a relative’s dog, you still might be able to pursue a claim. Typically, the claim is made against the homeowner’s insurance policy rather than the relative directly. When you report a dog bite from a relative’s dog, the local police will investigate the bite to determine if the dog has bitten before and if it is up-to-date on its vaccinations. The dog may be quarantined for a period as part of the investigation. Our attorneys can assist you in collecting the authority’s investigation file.

Boyk Law Case Example: 1-Year-Old Bit by Grandma’s Dog

Our client was being babysat by Grandma at her house. The baby was drinking her bottle, and the dog took the bottle. When the baby attempted to get her bottle back the dog attacked. Facial scars resulted. These are difficult situations. Nobody wants to make a claim against their relatives. That is why people carry Homeowner’s Insurance. We made a claim and received the policy limits against the insurance company. We were able to obtain a structured settlement that will pay for college or a car or a home after the child reached adulthood. At the same time no money came out of Grandma’s pocket.

Postal Carriers Can File a Dog Bite Claims

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a noticeable increase in dog attacks; Particularly, there’s been a recent rise in the number of bites on delivery drivers, such as those from USPS, FedEx, UPS, Amazon, Grubhub, and DoorDash. Postal workers and other delivery drivers who are bitten on the job can often file workers’ compensation claims for their injuries. If the pet owner is found to be negligent, they may also be held responsible for covering these costs, in addition to any pain and suffering or other damages the delivery driver suffered.

Many of these dog bites come from breeds often labeled as “attack” dogs, such as Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Bulldogs, German Shepherds, Huskies, and Malamutes. These breeds can be friendly and well-behaved if properly trained and socialized. However, many owners of these powerful dogs are not prepared for the responsibilities involved in caring for them, which can lead to aggressive behavior. For example, Pit Bulls have exceptionally strong bites, capable of inflicting severe injuries.

If you are bitten by a dog due to the owner’s neglect or poor training, a Findlay dog bite lawyer can help you hold the owner accountable and get the compensation you deserve for your injuries and suffering.

How Much is My Dog Bite Case Worth?

All cases are unique and dependent on factors including, but not limited to, victim’s age and sex, location of the dog bite, magnitude of any nerve damage and subsequent treatment plays a role as well. Permanent scarring and disfigurement can cause trauma beyond their physical characteristics, and there is compensation for those damages in addition to those for medical expenses and lost wages.

When there is insurance coverage, the negligent party’s amount of coverage also plays a major role in determining how much the settlement could be.

The value of your dog bite case depends on various other factors, including:

  • Severity of the Bite: The seriousness of your injuries and the impact on your daily life.
  • Location of the Injury: Where on your body the bite occurred.
  • Ongoing Treatment: The need for long-term medical care, including physical therapy or surgery.
  • Insurance Coverage: Homeowner’s insurance typically covers dog bite claims, and the average settlement is over $30,000.

The insurance company’s goal is to minimize their payout, so make sure you always consult with an experienced dog bite lawyer before accepting any settlement offers to ensure that you receive fair compensation. Once you accept a settlement, you cannot request additional compensation later if the initial amount is insufficient.

Boyk Law Case Example: Elderly Man Receives $100,000 Policy Limits for Serious Leg Dog Bites

Our elderly client was at an outside party visiting his nephew in a rural community. He was in his wheelchair due to losing a leg from diabetes. A neighbor’s dog running at large bit him in his “good” leg. It tore through the muscles and was very serious. The open wound became infected. The result was having to return to the wound clinic on a regular basis over a six month time period. The problem on the case was that the homeowner refused to communicate with us. We assumed there was no insurance coverage. Because of the seriousness of the injuries, we filed the lawsuit and sued all members of the dog’s household. The actual dog owner was not “an insured” under the policy. We fought this and eventually received the $100,000 policy limits and substantially reduced the amount of money we owed back to Medicare for the medical bill lien. Our client received a substantial sum for his pain and suffering.

No Fee Unless There’s a Recovery

If you’ve been bitten by a dog and are facing high medical bills and ongoing treatment, you need a lawyer who will fight for your rights. Consultations with our firm are free, and we only get paid if you win your case. Call us anytime, day or night. The Charles E. Boyk Law Firm is dedicated to helping you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and suffering.

Dog bite cases can be complex, and understanding the legal aspects can make a significant difference in your case. If the dog owner lacks insurance or you cannot obtain compensation through their insurance, you will need to file a lawsuit in court. While having an attorney is advisable for negotiating insurance settlements, it is essential to have legal representation for a lawsuit. Our Findlay Dog Bite Attorneys will gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if needed. They will work to prove that the dog owner was negligent and that you are entitled to compensation for your injuries. Your dog bite attorney can handle negotiations and ensure that all your damages, including future medical expenses and lost wages, are considered.

Your attorney can help determine whether to pursue your claim under common law, the Ohio dog bite statute, or both, and will assist in building the strongest possible case to maximize your compensation. Additionally, your dog bite attorney can guide you on whom to file the suit against—the owner, a harborer, or a keeper. The success of your case may hinge on accurately identifying the party legally responsible for your injuries. Recently, a client was injured at a local pet store who was hosting an event for an animal rescue. The animal was not properly secured and bit a child inside the store. While the dog attack happened at the pet store, it was owned and harbored by the animal rescue. Both parties are expected to share liability for the damages.

If you have circumstances that do not allow you to bring a claim under Ohio’s dog bite statutes, you may be able to use a common law theory which supposes the owner was exhibiting negligent behavior. Ohio dog owners are typically protected from common law claims on account of the One-Bite Rule. If this is the first time the dog has bitten or attacked someone, you likely will not be able to rely on that theory.

Contact Our Office’s Skilled Dog Bite Attorneys

Choosing the right attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Charles E. Boyk Law Offices has a proven track record of success in dog bite cases. We are committed to providing personalized legal representation and ensuring that your rights are protected throughout the legal process. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, it is crucial to seek legal advice to understand your rights and options. A skilled Findlay dog bite lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of your case, secure the compensation you deserve, and ensure that the responsible party is held accountable. Contact us at Charles E. Boyk Law Offices for a free consultation and let us help you on the path to recovery and justice.

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