Columbus Dog Bite Attorney Holding Owners Accountable
Dog Bite Injuries Can Be Serious
Physical and emotional harm deserves full attention
Bites and animal attacks cause lacerations, infections, nerve damage, and scarring, along with anxiety and fear that can linger. Children are especially vulnerable. E. Ray Critchett, LLC treats these cases with care, documenting medical treatment, counseling needs, and the day-to-day impact on school, work, and family life.
Ohio Dog Bite Law
Strict liability and what it means for your case
Ohio generally imposes strict liability on dog owners when a bite injures someone lawfully on property and not provoking the animal. That means proof focuses on the incident, injuries, and damages rather than prior bites. We address defenses quickly and identify applicable insurance coverage to fund recovery.
How a Lawyer Helps Dog Bite Victims
From documenting wounds to negotiating with insurers
We gather photos, medical records, animal control reports, and witness statements. Claims often proceed through homeowner or renter policies, which can include coverage for scarring, plastic surgery, lost income, and emotional distress. When carriers delay or minimize, we escalate the claim and prepare to file.
Injuries and Complications
Protect health first, then build the case
Common issues include puncture wounds, torn ligaments, facial scars, hand injuries, and infections that require antibiotics or rabies protocols. We work with treating physicians and, when needed, surgeons to project future care and costs tied to permanent marks and functional loss.
Frequently Asked Questions – Dog Bites
Practical guidance for the days after an attack
Do I have to prove the owner was negligent?
No. Under Ohio’s strict liability framework, an owner can be responsible without prior incidents, subject to limited defenses.
The owner is a friend. Do I sue them personally?
Claims are typically handled through homeowner’s insurance, not out of pocket. We communicate with respect while protecting your rights.
How long do I have to file?
Most injury claims in Ohio must be filed within two years. Early action helps document wounds and avoid gaps in care.
Can I recover for scars?
Yes. Settlements can include compensation for disfigurement and potential scar revision procedures.
Protect Your Rights After a Dog Bite
Simple steps that make a difference
Seek medical care, report the incident to local authorities, keep photos as wounds heal, and save contact information for the dog’s owner and witnesses. Then contact our office for a
free consultation about next steps.
