Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni fought long and hard (understatement) for me to get the best outcome possible after my car accident. Joe Paulozzi and Amy Higgins were wonderful… dedicated, persevering, and honest. I cannot thank them enough, and I highly recommend them to anyone who wants excellent and proactive representation.
Bitten or attacked by a dog in Ohio? Insurance companies often downplay these injuries or shift blame to the victim, but we fight to hold negligent owners accountable. At Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni Personal Injury Lawyers, dog bite victims across Ohio trust us to deliver real results.
We stand with you from day one through resolution, guiding you at every step. Our attorneys have recovered millions in verdicts and settlements for injury victims statewide. You only have one chance to secure fair compensation. Make it count with a free consultation today.
Proven results. Millions recovered. No fee unless we win.
Puncture Wounds and Tearing Injuries – Dog bites frequently cause deep punctures, torn muscle tissue, and severe lacerations. These wounds can quickly become infected and may require stitches, debridement, or reconstructive surgery to prevent complications.
Permanent Scarring and Disfigurement – Facial bites, arm wounds, and leg injuries often leave visible scars or permanent disfigurement. Children are especially at risk for facial trauma and may need future cosmetic or reconstructive procedures to restore appearance and confidence.
Nerve and Tendon Damage – When a dog bite penetrates deeply into the hands, arms, or legs, it can sever nerves or tear tendons, leading to weakness, numbness, or loss of motion. Some victims require surgery or long-term physical therapy to regain function.
Infections and Disease Transmission – Bacteria from a dog’s mouth can cause dangerous infections such as cellulitis, abscesses, or even sepsis. Victims also face the risk of rabies, tetanus, and other serious illnesses if the animal’s vaccination history is unknown.
Psychological Trauma – Dog attacks often cause emotional scars that last long after physical wounds heal. Both children and adults may develop anxiety, nightmares, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), especially when confronted with unfamiliar animals.
Under Ohio Revised Code § 955.28, the state follows a strict liability rule for dog bite injuries. This means that dog owners are automatically responsible for injuries their dog causes, even if the animal has never bitten anyone before.
Ohio’s Dog Bite Statute (O.R.C. § 955.28) – Ohio’s strict liability statute makes dog owners, keepers, or harborers legally responsible for any injury, death, or property damage caused by their dog. Liability applies regardless of prior behavior or whether the dog was previously labeled as “dangerous.”
Strict Liability Applies – Owners are liable even if their dog has never shown aggression before. There is no requirement to prove prior knowledge or negligence.
Negligence Can Increase Recovery – If an owner violated leash laws, ignored complaints, or failed to control a known aggressive dog, victims may pursue additional compensation for reckless or willful misconduct.
No “One-Bite” Rule – Ohio does not follow the one-bite rule. Even the first attack creates full liability for damages.
Comparative Negligence Rule (O.R.C. § 2315.33) – Victims can still recover damages if they are 50 percent or less at fault, such as if accused of provoking the dog. The award is reduced only by the victim’s share of fault.
Provocation Defenses – Liability may be reduced if evidence shows the dog was provoked, struck, or threatened before the attack.
Breed and Size Do Not Change Liability – Ohio law applies equally to all breeds. However, larger dogs that cause more severe injuries can increase the overall case value.
Other Liable Parties May Include:
Are Police or Animal Control Reports Required?
While you are not legally required to file a police report to bring a claim, Ohio law requires that all dog bites be reported to the local health commissioner within 24 hours under Ohio Administrative Code § 3701-3-28.
Compensation for Dog Bite Scarring and Disfigurement
The strength of your evidence often determines the success of your Ohio dog bite claim. Every report, photo, and witness statement helps establish what happened and who is responsible. Careful documentation makes it much harder for insurance companies or dog owners to dispute liability or reduce your compensation.
From your first call through resolution, our team stands by you every step of the way. At Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni Personal Injury Lawyers, we handle every detail so you can focus on recovery and healing. Our Ohio dog bite lawyers:
Your next decision matters. Insurance companies and dog owners often move quickly to protect themselves, and you need an experienced legal team protecting your rights. At Paulozzi, Alkire & Condeni Personal Injury Lawyers, our Ohio dog bite attorneys bring decades of combined experience, a proven record of results, and a deep understanding of Ohio’s dog bite and premises liability laws.
We know how insurers try to shift blame or minimize injuries, and we fight back with detailed investigations, solid evidence, and skilled advocacy. With millions recovered for injury victims across Ohio, our mission is to secure the full compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term recovery. From your first call through final resolution, we stand by your side every step of the way.
Call us at 800-LAW-OHIO (800-529-6446) or schedule your free consultation today. There are no upfront costs, and you pay nothing unless we win.
