Dogs are a common and cherished pet, with many Cincinnati residents welcoming these loyal companions into their homes. However, not all dog owners uphold the responsibility that comes with pet ownership. This oversight can lead to unfortunate incidents, such as dog bites, which can cause serious physical and emotional harm.
In these trying times, Monge & Associates can fight for victims’ right to justice. Our firm specializes in representing dog bite victims, advocating aggressively to hold owners accountable for their animals’ actions. If you were bitten by a dog in Cincinnati, trust our attorneys to guide you through the legal process and recover the settlement that you deserve.
Cincinnati Dog Bite Resources
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Why Choose Our Attorney?
Do You Need a Lawyer After Being Bitten by a Dog?
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Securing Fair Compensation After a Dog Attack
How Long Do You Have to File a Dog Bite Claim?
Steps to Follow After a Dog Attack
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Why Choose Our Cincinnati Dog Bite Attorney?
- At Monge & Associates, we focus on Cincinnati personal injury law, including dog bite injuries. We have helped clients secure fair settlements in a range of cases and will advocate aggressively for your right to recovery.
- Honesty, transparency, and respect are the cornerstones of our firm. With our Client Bill of Rights, we aim to treat every client like we would treat our own family.
- We understand that not everyone can afford a lawyer, especially after a serious injury. That is why we operate on a contingency fee basis—if we do not win your case, there are no fees or costs.
Do You Need a Lawyer After Being Bitten by a Dog?
Deciding whether to hire a lawyer after a dog bite involves several considerations. In most cases, it is beneficial to hire an attorney; a lawyer can handle the legal process so that you can focus on recovery and leverage the full extent of their resources so that you maximize your chances of recovering a fair settlement. This is particularly true in complex cases involving serious injuries, death, or lasting mental anguish.
In cases of minor injuries, where medical bills are below $1,000 and there’s no lasting physical or psychological impact, you might not need legal representation. However, initial consultation with a lawyer can provide valuable insights into the merits of your case and whether pursuing a legal claim is beneficial for you. To explore your options, schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a Cincinnati dog bite lawyer as soon as possible after the accident.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bites can result in a range of serious injuries, from nerve damage and broken bones to infections and potential transmission of diseases like rabies. Common injuries from animal attacks include:
- Scratches
- Cuts and lacerations
- Contusions
- Disfigurement
- Facial injuries
- Severe scarring
- Concussions
- Infections
- Psychological damage
Children and elderly people are particularly vulnerable to severe injuries due to their size and physical strength, respectively. For children, injuries often involve sensitive areas like the face, throat, and neck, while the elderly face a higher risk of broken bones due to falls.
Securing Fair Compensation After a Dog Bite
Ohio’s dog bite laws state that dog owners are strictly liable for any harm their pet causes. This liability extends to anyone who harbors or keeps the dog. Victims of these bites can seek compensation under the state’s dog bite statute or through common law.
Under the dog bite statute, the owner’s liability is clear-cut, provided the victim was not provoking the dog or trespassing. The victim needs only to prove that the dog caused harm. Under common law, however, the victim must demonstrate the owner’s negligence and knowledge of the dog’s viciousness.
The common law route can be more challenging, but it allows for the recovery of punitive damages, aimed at penalizing negligent owners and preventing future incidents. However, this option is not right for everyone. Our Cincinnati dog bite lawyers are well-versed in these laws and can guide you in choosing the right path for your claim, helping increase your chances of recovering the settlement that you deserve.
How Long Do You Have to File a Dog Bite Claim?
In Ohio, victims of dog bite attacks must file a claim within the appropriate statute of limitations. Adults have six years from the date of the injury to initiate legal action. For minors, this timeframe extends to six years from their 18th birthday. If you file outside of the statute of limitations, the court will most likely dismiss your case.
Although six years may seem like a long time, it can pass very quickly. Delay can weaken your case, as evidence may become less compelling, and memories of the incident may fade. To protect your right to recovery, contact a Cincinnati dog bite lawyer as soon as you can.
Steps to Follow After a Dog Attack
When you or a loved one has been the victim of a dog attack, knowing the right steps to take immediately afterward can significantly influence the outcome of any subsequent legal action. It is crucial to act quickly to protect your safety, health, and legal rights:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if the injuries appear minor, it’s vital to get medical help right away. Dog bites can lead to serious infections and hidden damage like nerve or tissue injury. A healthcare professional will assess, document, and treat your injuries, providing essential records for any future legal claim.
- Gather Detailed Information: Collect as much information as possible about the dog and its owner, including their name, address, and contact details. If there were any witnesses to the attack, obtain their contact information as well.
- Report the Incident: It’s important to report the dog bite to local authorities, such as animal control or the health department. This official report not only serves as formal documentation of the incident but also helps in tracking and managing potential public safety risks associated with the dog.
- Consult with a Cincinnati Dog Bite Lawyer: As soon as you’re able, consult with a lawyer who specializes in dog bite cases. An attorney can provide crucial guidance on your legal rights and options.
Call Our Winning Cincinnati Dog Bite Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has suffered from a dog bite in Cincinnati, the path to justice and compensation can be complex and challenging. At Monge & Associates, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these incidents can have. Our Cincinnati dog bite lawyers are dedicated to protecting your rights and fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Don’t navigate this difficult time alone. Contact us today at (888) 477-0597 for a free consultation, where we will discuss your case and outline the steps to move forward.