The average payout for a dog bite claim is impossible to calculate because each case has many unique factors. While you could average the monetary damages victims of these attacks recover, it would not inform you about the possibilities in your case.
The best option for learning how much you might be able to recover in an Ohio dog bite claim settlement is to work with our Columbus personal injury law firm to seek compensation in your case. As part of developing your case, they will:
- Gather evidence to support your claim
- Collect documentation of your damages
- Calculate an appropriate settlement range for your case
Once they complete these steps, they will be able to give you a possible payout for your dog bite claim based on the unique factors of your case.
How Can I Hold the Dog’s Owner Responsible for My Injuries?
Ohio law makes a dog’s owner liable for their pet’s bad behavior. While some other states require victims to prove the owner acted negligently by violating leash laws or in some other way, Ohio Revised Code (ORC) §955.28 makes them strictly liable under most circumstances.
This means you and your attorney can take action to recover compensation by proving they owned the dog and the dog attacked you, causing your injuries.
Options for Recovering Compensation After a Dog Bite Injury In Ohio
Many dog bite cases in Columbus settle without going to trial. Homeowners’ insurance policies may cover these claims, and it may be possible for your attorney to negotiate an agreement that compensates you fairly based on the damages you experienced.
If the dog owner has no appropriate insurance coverage, the insurer will not negotiate, or your lawyer cannot persuade them to pay out enough to cover your losses, you may need to sue the dog’s owner. This suit will take place in a civil court, and a judge and jury will determine if you will receive a verdict and court award.
The Severity of the Injury Matters In a Dog Bite Case
The average payout for a dog bite claim will depend heavily on the severity of the attack, the injuries suffered, and the necessary treatment. Dog bites that break the skin always require medical attention because of the high risk of infection, but some can be cleaned and assessed at an urgent care facility or by your family doctor.
On the other end of the spectrum, some people experience significant bleeding and skin loss, requiring life-saving surgery, skin grafts, hospitalization, and plastic surgery. They may suffer lifelong impairments because of their injuries.
Factors that Affect Your Dog Bite Claim Settlement Value
In addition to the injuries you suffered, other factors may affect the value of your claim or lawsuit. This could include:
- The cost of your medical care
- The need for future medical procedures
- Necessary psychological counseling
- Any property damages you sustained
- Out-of-pocket costs you had to pay
- Pain and suffering you experienced
- The circumstances surrounding the bite incident
Most Cases Do Not Go to Trial, But it May Be Necessary
In most cases, dog bite claims can resolve without going to trial. Even when victims sue the dog’s owner, the case does not necessarily go to trial. The victim’s attorney could still negotiate a settlement before or even during the trial.
However, it is paramount that all victims are aware of the deadlines that apply. The statute of limitations in a dog bite case is generally two years in Ohio under ORC §2305.10. You may only have two years from the date of the bite to determine if you need to sue the dog’s owner for compensation.
If a dog bit your child, there may be an exception to this rule. It may be possible to toll the statute of limitations for a short time because of their young age.
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Talk to the Fitch Law Firm LLC Team for Free About Your Case
If you suffered dog bite injuries in Columbus or elsewhere in Ohio, the Fitch Law Firm LLC might be able to help you pursue compensation. Our team will evaluate your legal case for free and determine your options for filing a claim. We represent dog attack victims on a contingency basis.
Call (614) 545-3930 now to learn more about your case during a consultation with our team.