Ohio Now Ranked Third for Dog Bite Insurance Claims

Experts are claiming the pandemic has contributed to the steep rise in dog bites. After the shutdowns last March, people were spending an unprecedented amount of time at home. While all the extra attention should have put dogs at ease, animal experts believe the sensitive animals picked up on the stress and anxiety of the times and lashed out.

Dog bites are a serious matter with horrific consequences. In a perfect world, insurance companies would fulfill their obligation and cover expenses related to injuries. Instead, insurance companies put their bottom line over doing the right thing. That’s where Paulozzi LPA injury lawyers step in. With over 25 years of experience, our Cleveland dog bite attorneys will fight for the compensation you deserve. Don’t let insurance companies take advantage of you; call our aggressive and dedicated attorneys today and even the playing field.

Dog Bites Are on The Rise in Ohio

State Farm recently released data related to dog bites. The data shows Ohio has the third-highest number of insurance claims for dog bites. In the last reporting year;

• There were 187 claims
• $6.7 million were estimated in damages
• Damages have seen a sharp $1.3 million increase from the previous year
• The average claim paid out $36,000

However, what is the true cost of a dog bite to the victim?

Dog attacks are often vicious, causing an immense amount of damage. Dog bite victims experience;

• Severe lacerations require staples and stitches
• In case of rabies or other diseases, a victim may endure multiple vaccinations
• Some attacks are so severe they cause broken and fractured bones
• Reconstructive surgery is often required, especially when the dog attacks the persons face
• Emotional trauma may need years of therapy to overcome anxiety, depression, insomnia, and PTSD
• Loss of wages if you are unable to work

As the bills add up, it’s not hard to imagine why so many Americans go bankrupt after needing serious medical care. Will the average payout of $36,000 come close to covering all the expenses related to a dog attack?

What Can You Do to Protect Your Family?

While dogs are domesticated animals, accidents happen. Dog owners must constantly be aware of the potential harm to others. Some things you can do to protect yourself and your families are;

• Actively supervise your dog. This may seem like common sense, but some owners feel letting their dogs outside alone or on a chain is good enough. Always go with your dogs and monitor their behavior.
• Respect leash laws. A dog is an animal. Sudden noises or unfamiliar people can cause a dog to become defensive and act out.
• Never leave a baby or a child alone with a dog. A dog maybe your child’s best friend and willing to protect them from danger. However, the org site is riddled with heartbreaking stories of the family dog mauling a child to death in an instant with no reasonable cause.

To put it simply, we have to remember dogs are animals with their own instincts. If we can’t respect them and their potential for danger, lives will continue to be lost. In the last 15 years, 521 people were killed by dogs.

Contact Paulozzi LPA Today

If you or someone you love has been bitten or attacked by dogs, please contact our Cleveland, Ohio dog bite attorneys today. Focus on healing and recovering; let us handle the rest. Contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or calling us at 888-710-0040.