Sandusky Dog Bite Lawyer

Statistics by the American Veterinary Medical Foundation show there are nearly 800,000 dog bites each year that require medical attention.

Approximately 60 percent of these attacks happen near the property of the victim with a dog they are familiar with.

Dog bites and attacks are not only painful, but can lead to infection, disfigurement, the loss of body parts, and emotional trauma as well as fear. If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite because of the carelessness of the owner, a Sandusky dog bite lawyer could help you pursue compensation for injuries sustained. A capable personal injury lawyer could advocate for your rights in the courtroom and out.

Dog Bite Laws in Sandusky

According to the Ohio Revised Code § 955.28(B), a dog owner, keeper, or harborer is responsible for any injury caused by the dog if:

• The injury was caused by their dog’s behavior
• The party injured was not committing a crime or trespassing
• The dog was not provoked by the victim with teasing, tormenting, or abuse

In Ohio, those injured by dog bites can base their civil claim on either a strict liability or a negligence theory. Which theory the claim is based on may determine the amount of compensation a victim will receive.

For civil claims based on a theory of negligence, the plaintiff generally must prove the owner of the dog acted negligently through their actions or inaction.

They must then prove that this behavior then caused the victim’s injury. Strict liability does not require the plaintiff to prove the owner or keeper of the dog acted negligently and thus caused the bite to occur.

Compensation for Injured Parties

A plaintiff that bases their claim on the theory of negligence and is able to prove the dog’s owner was malicious or grossly negligent in their actions may be entitled to punitive damages in civil court. A Sandusky dog bite lawyer who thoroughly understands dog bite laws in Ohio could help build and present a case to increase the chances of a fair settlement.

Talk to a Sandusky Dog Bite Attorney

An experienced Sandusky dog bite lawyers could review the circumstances surrounding your dog bite and determine if you have grounds for a case filing. If so, they could guide you through the next steps to obtain a settlement. Whether you settle in or outside the courtroom, local attorneys are here to present the facts of your case in your interests.

To pursue a fair settlement, medical experts may be consulted to explain the extent of your injuries to other parties. Life planners may also be called in to show a judge and jury how your injuries could affect you for the rest of your life.

Compassionate attorneys and support staff understand this can be a difficult time between the medical bills, pain, and your appearance. Let them support you by holding the responsible party accountable by seeking fair compensation for your damages. Call today to set up a free consultation to learn more.