Ohio Dog Bite Lawyer

Ohio Dog Bite Law: Strict Liability Under ORC 955.28

Ohio is a strict liability state for dog bites. Under Ohio Revised Code 955.28, a dog owner is liable for any injury, death, or loss to a person or property caused by the dog — regardless of whether the owner had any prior knowledge that the dog was dangerous or had ever acted aggressively before. This is a significant departure from the "one bite rule" followed in some other states, where an owner might escape liability for a first attack. In Ohio, if the dog bites, the owner is responsible. The only defenses are that the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing at the time of the attack. ORC 955.22 authorizes local authorities to designate a dog as a "dangerous dog," and ORC 955.11 provides the definitions governing these designations.

Dog bites cause a wide range of injuries — from minor puncture wounds to life-altering trauma. Common injuries include deep lacerations, puncture wounds, crushing injuries from powerful bites, serious infections (including cellulitis and potential rabies exposure), facial scarring and disfigurement, nerve damage, tendon and ligament injuries, and psychological trauma including PTSD. Children are particularly vulnerable because they are often bitten on the face or neck and may require multiple reconstructive surgeries. When children are victims, parents or guardians may bring claims on their behalf, and the statute of limitations under ORC 2305.10 is tolled until the child reaches age 18.

Ohio's comparative fault framework under ORC 2315.33 applies to dog bite claims. If the victim provoked the dog — by hitting, taunting, or threatening it — or was trespassing on private property, the owner may raise those facts as a defense. A court or jury will assess the relative fault of each party, and the victim's damages will be reduced by their percentage of fault. If the victim is found more than 50% at fault, recovery is barred entirely. Most dog bite cases involve victims lawfully present in a public space or as invited guests on private property, meaning these defenses often do not apply.

Damages available in Ohio dog bite cases include all medical expenses — emergency treatment, surgery, hospitalization, follow-up care, physical therapy, and future plastic or reconstructive surgery for permanent scarring. Lost wages and loss of earning capacity are recoverable if the injury prevents you from working. Non-economic damages cover pain and suffering, emotional distress and PTSD, permanent scarring and disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life. Dog bite claims are often covered by the dog owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance policy, providing a real source of compensation. The statute of limitations under ORC 2305.10 gives victims two years from the date of the injury to file suit. Acting quickly preserves evidence, witness testimony, and insurance coverage.

After a dog bite, immediate steps matter: seek medical care right away to treat wounds and assess infection risk, document the dog owner's identity and insurance, photograph your injuries and the scene, and report the bite to animal control and the local health department as required by ORC 955.261. Do not give recorded statements to the dog owner's insurance company before consulting an attorney — insurers will use your words against you.

Dog Bite Claims We Handle

• Dog bites causing lacerations, puncture wounds, and crushing injuries
• Facial bites requiring reconstructive or plastic surgery
• Dog attacks on children and minors
• Infections following dog bites (cellulitis, rabies exposure)
• Nerve damage and permanent loss of function
• Psychological trauma and PTSD from dog attacks
• Dog attacks causing permanent disfigurement and scarring
• Claims against dog owners covered by homeowner's or renter's insurance

Why Choose Jwayyed Law LLC

At Jwayyed Law LLC, we represent dog bite victims throughout Ohio on a contingency fee basis — you pay nothing unless we win. We understand Ohio's strict liability law, the defenses insurers raise, and how to document and value injuries including long-term scarring and psychological harm. We handle all communications with the dog owner's insurance company so you can focus on your recovery.

We also handle related personal injury matters including premises liability, motor vehicle accidents, and other personal injury claims across Ohio.

Call (614) 285-5482 or schedule a consultation online to discuss your dog bite case. Read our article on Ohio dog bite laws and owner liability.

Personal Injury – Locations We Serve

We serve clients in the following Ohio counties. Each county has its own page; click through for court information and local details.