Ohio Dog Bite Laws: What Victims in Cleveland Need to Know
Brought to you by Zaber Law – Personal Injury Attorneys Serving Cleveland and Northeast Ohio
Being bitten by a dog can be a traumatic and painful experience. Whether it’s a minor nip or a serious attack that requires medical care, you have legal rights as a victim in Ohio.
At Zaber Law, we help people in Cleveland and across Northeast Ohio understand their rights after a dog bite and fight for the compensation they deserve. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the basics of Ohio dog bite laws, so you know exactly what to do if you or a loved one has been bitten.
Ohio Follows a “Strict Liability” Rule for Dog Bites
In Ohio, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries their dogs cause. That means:
➡️ The dog’s owner is responsible—even if the dog has never bitten anyone before and even if they didn’t know the dog was aggressive.
You don’t have to prove the dog was dangerous or that the owner was negligent. You only need to show:
- The dog bit or injured you
- You were not trespassing
- You were not teasing, tormenting, or abusing the dog
Where Do Dog Bite Incidents Usually Happen?
Dog bites can happen anywhere, but they often occur:
- On the owner’s property (including yards or porches)
- In public places like parks or sidewalks
- In the victim’s home, especially if a friend or family member brought the dog over
Even if the dog wasn’t on a leash or escaped a yard, the owner can still be held legally responsible under Ohio law.
What Kind of Compensation Can Victims Receive?
If you were bitten or attacked by a dog, you may be able to recover compensation for:
✔️ Medical bills
✔️ Lost wages (if you missed work)
✔️ Pain and suffering
✔️ Scarring or permanent injury
✔️ Emotional trauma, especially in children
Some injuries from dog bites require ongoing treatment or even plastic surgery—so it’s important to talk to an attorney early to make sure you’re not left paying out of pocket.
What If the Dog Belongs to a Friend or Family Member?
It’s common for people to be bitten by dogs owned by someone they know. Many victims feel uncomfortable filing a claim—but keep in mind, it’s usually the homeowner’s insurance company that pays for the damages, not the dog owner directly.
You can still be respectful of your relationship and protect your rights at the same time.
How Long Do You Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in Ohio?
In Ohio, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the incident. That means you have two years to take legal action. If you wait too long, you could lose your right to file a claim—so don’t delay.
Bitten by a Dog in Cleveland? Let’s Talk.
If you or your child has been bitten or attacked by a dog, don’t try to handle it alone. Let the experienced legal team at Zaber Law help you understand your options and fight for the compensation you deserve.
📞 Call us today at 216-367-5665 to schedule your FREE consultation
We’re here to protect your rights and guide you every step of the way.
