Dog Bites in Ohio
Ohio is one of the strictest states for dog bite liability. Under R.C. 955.28, a dog owner is liable for injuries their dog causes — without the victim having to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous. This 'strict liability' rule makes Ohio dog bite cases more straightforward than in most states.
What you should know
There are two parallel paths in Ohio: the statutory strict liability claim (no fault required) and a common law claim (which requires proving the owner knew of the dog's vicious propensities, but allows punitive damages). Most cases use the statutory route. The 'one-bite rule' that exists in some states does NOT apply to the statutory claim.
What typically causes them
- Unleashed or unsecured dogs
- Aggressive breeds without proper containment
- Owner failure to warn
- Dogs running loose in neighborhoods
- Provoked dogs (a defense, but limited)
Injuries we see
- Lacerations and puncture wounds
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Nerve damage
- Infection (rabies, MRSA)
- Emotional trauma — especially in children
- Wrongful death (rare but possible)
Steps to take after a dog bites
- 1
Get to an ER — bite wounds infect quickly
- 2
Photograph the wounds before and during healing
- 3
Identify the dog and its owner
- 4
Report the bite to the local health department (required in Ohio)
- 5
Get the dog's vaccination records
- 6
Speak with a dog bite attorney
Statutory strict liability simplifies the case dramatically. Defenses include trespass, provocation, and tormenting the dog. Homeowner's insurance often covers dog bite claims.
Medical bills, plastic surgery, scarring damages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, lost wages. Children often recover substantial amounts due to long-term scarring impact.
Statutory claim: 6 years (R.C. 2305.07). Common law claim with vicious propensity: 2 years.
Don't let an Ohio dog bites ruin your future.
The clock is ticking on Ohio's 2-year statute of limitations. Get a free, no-obligation case review now.