When you or a loved one has been injured by a dog attack in Columbus or anywhere in Ohio, Schiff & Associates is here to help. Our experienced Columbus dog bite attorney team understands that dog attacks can cause serious physical injuries, emotional trauma, and long-lasting fear. With over 40 years of experience representing injury victims, we know how to navigate the complexities of dog bite cases and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Schiff & Associates
as Your Dog Bite Attorney in Columbus
Dog Bites:
Attorney Ryan Lauer breaks down what you need to know if you were a victim of a dog bite.
“Dog bite cases present unique challenges because insurance coverage isn’t as straightforward as with car accidents. We help victims navigate the reporting process, track down insurance coverage, and if necessary, file lawsuits to recover compensation. Ohio’s strict liability statute means the owner is liable even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.”
– Attorney Ryan Lauer
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Types of Injuries
We Handle in Dog Bite Cases
Dog attacks can cause a wide range of serious injuries, including:
- Facial injuries and scarring
- Amputated or severely damaged fingers
- Deep puncture wounds and lacerations
- Scratches requiring medical treatment
- Knock-down injuries where a dog causes someone to fall
- Infection from dog bites requiring immediate medical attention
- Emotional trauma and lasting fear of dogs
- Any injury caused by a dog, not just bites
Frequently Asked Questions
About Dog Bite Cases in Ohio
No. Ohio law changed from the old “one bite rule” that required proving the dog had bitten someone before. Under current Ohio law (Revised Code 955.28), dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their animals. You don’t have to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous or that it had bitten anyone previously.
First, remove yourself from danger and seek immediate medical attention—dog bites often lead to serious infections that require prompt treatment. If possible, photograph the dog and your injuries. Try to identify the dog’s owner and get their contact information. Report the attack to animal control or your county health department. Then contact our Columbus dog bite attorneys as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Yes. You can report a nuisance dog—one that attempts to bite or threatens people—to your county health department. While you typically can’t recover financially unless you’ve been injured, reporting creates documentation that protects others and establishes a pattern if the dog later attacks someone. A nuisance dog that tries to bite can be reported, while a dangerous dog is one that has actually bitten someone.
Typically, the dog owner is strictly liable under Ohio law. We pursue compensation through the owner’s homeowner’s insurance, renter’s insurance, or in some cases, commercial property insurance (such as hotels or apartment complexes). The property owner where the dog was kept may also be liable if they had knowledge, control, and consent regarding the dog’s presence. If we cannot find insurance coverage, we file a lawsuit to obtain a judgment against the owner that can be enforced as a lien against their home.
You can recover compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of ordinary activities, mental anguish (including fear of dogs), and future damages such as scar revision surgery if needed. If the dog had bitten someone previously and the owner knew about it, you may also be eligible for punitive damages.
Ohio’s statute of limitations for dog bite cases is generally two years from the date of the attack. However, you should contact an attorney immediately to preserve evidence and begin the investigation process. Unlike car accidents where police reports document all the details, dog bite cases require immediate investigation to identify the dog owner, locate the dog’s residence, and track down insurance coverage. Evidence can disappear quickly, making early attorney involvement crucial for building a strong case.
This affects who may be liable. If you’re bitten in a common area of an apartment complex, both the dog owner and the landlord may be liable because the landlord has control over common areas. If the attack occurs inside a private apartment or home, the landlord typically won’t be liable because they don’t have control over that private space. We analyze these “harbor” cases carefully to identify all potentially responsible parties.
Serving Columbus
and All of Ohio
Schiff & Associates handles dog bite cases throughout Ohio. As a local Columbus firm with deep community roots, we understand Ohio’s animal control systems, health department procedures, and local court processes in ways that out-of-town firms simply cannot match. Our clients appreciate working with attorneys who are personally invested in protecting Columbus residents.
Don’t wait to get the legal help you need after a dog attack. Contact our dog bite lawyers in Columbus today at 614-621-8888 for your free consultation and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.
Ready To
Discuss Your Case?
Our team is here to provide clear advice. Your primary contacts, Zach and Josh are committed to trusting our guidance to get you the best outcome.