Dog bites cause a shocking degree of physical and emotional trauma for victims. With millions of dog bites occurring annually across America, understanding insurance coverage becomes essential for victims seeking compensation. Ohio residents need to know how insurance companies handle these incidents and what legal responsibilities apply.
What Does Ohio Law Say About Dog Bite Liability?
Ohio follows strict liability rules for dog bites. This means dog owners are responsible for injuries their pets cause, regardless of whether they knew their dog might bite. The law covers bites occurring on public property or when victims are lawfully on private property, including guests, mail carriers, and delivery personnel.
Ohio’s statute eliminates the “one free bite” rule that some states follow. Dog owners cannot claim they didn’t know their pet was dangerous. The only exceptions occur when victims were trespassing, committing crimes, or teasing, tormenting, or abusing the dog before the attack.
How Does Homeowners Insurance Handle Dog Bites?
Most homeowners’ and renters’ insurance policies include liability coverage for dog bites. Standard policies typically provide $100,000 to $300,000 in liability protection. This coverage pays for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and legal fees if the victim files a lawsuit.
However, insurance companies increasingly restrict coverage for certain situations:
- Breed restrictions: Some insurers refuse coverage for breeds they consider high-risk (including pit bulls, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds).
- Previous incidents: Once a dog bites someone, insurers may exclude that specific dog from coverage or cancel the policy entirely.
- Coverage limits: Severe injuries can exceed policy limits, leaving owners personally responsible for additional compensation.
What Should Dog Bite Victims Do To Protect Their Claim?
Taking proper steps after a dog bite protects your right to compensation. First, get medical treatment immediately, even for seemingly minor bites. Dog bites carry infection risks, including rabies, and puncture wounds can damage deeper tissues than what is visible. Medical records also document your injuries for insurance claims.
You should also report the bite to local authorities. Ohio law requires healthcare providers to report dog bites, but you should also file a report with animal control or police. This creates official documentation and helps track dangerous dogs in the community.
Finally, you should gather evidence about the incident to prove what happened. Take photos of your injuries, torn clothing, and the location where the attack occurred. Get the dog owner’s name, contact information, and insurance details. Identify any witnesses and collect their contact information.
What Compensation Can Victims Receive?
Dog bite settlements cover various losses victims experience, including:
- Medical expenses for emergency treatment, surgeries, medications, and ongoing care like physical therapy or counseling for trauma
- Lost wages for time missed from work during recovery
- Payment for pain, suffering, scarring, and disfigurement
- Long-term counseling after attacks, particularly for children
When Should You Consult an Attorney?
While some minor bites resolve through simple insurance claims, some situations warrant legal representation. Severe injuries that involve extensive medical treatment, permanent scarring, or nerve damage need experienced legal advocacy. Moreover, cases involving disputes about liability (such as claims that you provoked the dog) may also require the involvement of an attorney to protect your rights.
Insurance companies often offer quick, low settlements in the hope that victims will accept less than they deserve. An experienced dog bite attorney knows how to evaluate the actual value of your claim, including future medical needs and the lasting effects of the injury. They will also handle negotiations while you focus on healing.
Contact Flickinger Legal Group Today
Dog bites create complex legal and insurance situations that require knowledgeable guidance. At Flickinger Legal Group, Justin and Russ understand the physical and emotional challenges dog bite victims face. They will work directly with you to pursue maximum compensation from insurance companies and hold dog owners accountable. Contact Flickinger Legal Group today for a free consultation about your dog bite injury case.