Ohio Revised Code § 955.28 makes dog owners strictly liable for bites and attacks — meaning you do not need to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous. Gregory S. Young Co., LPA has helped dog bite victims throughout Cincinnati and Hamilton County secure compensation for medical bills, scarring, reconstructive surgery, lost wages, and the emotional trauma that often follows a serious attack.
How We Help You
- Documenting injuries, scarring, and long-term medical needs
- Identifying insurance coverage (homeowner's and renter's policies typically cover dog bites)
- Handling claims for children — who are most often victims and most seriously injured
- Working with plastic surgery and psychological experts for catastrophic bite cases
- Pursuing claims even when the attack happened on the owner's property
- "Provocation" defenses that owners and insurers routinely raise
What To Do After Your Injury
- Get Medical Attention
Dog bites cause puncture wounds prone to serious infection. Get treatment immediately, and follow up for rabies risk assessment.
- Report the Bite to Animal Control
File a report with Cincinnati or Hamilton County Animal Control. This creates an official record and may reveal a prior bite history.
- Identify the Dog and Owner
Get the owner's name, address, and insurance information if possible.
- Call an Attorney
Dog bite claims are time-sensitive. We ensure your full damages — including future scar revision surgery — are accounted for.
Injured? Talk to a Dog Bite & Animal Attack Attorneys Today
Free consultations are available around the clock. No upfront costs — we only get paid when you do.
- No fee unless we win
- Free consultations 24/7
- Serving Ohio & Kentucky since 1958
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ohio a 'strict liability' state for dog bites? What does that mean?
Yes. Unlike in many other states, victims of dog bites do not have to prove that the owner was negligent, nor that the dog was known to be dangerous. The dog's owner, keeper, or any other person in charge of the animal at the time of the attack can generally be held responsible for a victim's injuries.
What types of damages can I recover in a dog bite case?
You can recover both economic and noneconomic damages. Economic damages include emergency room care, surgery, prescriptions, physical therapy, future medical expenses, and lost wages. Noneconomic damages include pain and suffering, emotional distress, psychological damage related to permanent scarring, and reduced quality of life.
What if the dog bite occurred on someone else's property?
You may still have a valid claim so long as you had a lawful reason to be on the property at the time of the attack — for example, as an invited guest, a delivery worker, or a utility meter reader.
What if the dog belonged to a friend or family member?
The law applies regardless of the relationship between the dog's owner and the victim. While pursuing a claim against a loved one can be emotionally difficult, many people have homeowner's or renter's insurance that covers a victim's losses. Consult an attorney to assess your legal options.
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Ohio or Kentucky?
In Ohio, you generally have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit under personal injury laws, though some strict liability cases may allow up to six years. In Kentucky, the deadline is typically one year from the incident. Missing these deadlines could bar you from recovery — consult an attorney quickly.
What should I do immediately after a dog bite in Cincinnati?
Seek medical attention right away to treat injuries and prevent infection. Document the incident — photograph wounds, the dog, and the location. Report the bite to Cincinnati or Hamilton County Animal Control. Gather witness information and the owner's contact details. Avoid signing anything or speaking to insurance companies without legal advice.
Can I still recover compensation if the dog has no history of biting?
Yes. Ohio and Kentucky are strict liability states for dog bites. You don't need to prove the dog was previously aggressive — the owner is liable simply because the bite occurred. Exceptions apply only if you were trespassing or provoking the dog.
What if the dog owner doesn't have insurance?
You can still pursue the owner personally for damages. We may also explore your own health insurance or underinsured policies. Our attorneys specialize in maximizing recovery in all scenarios, ensuring you don't bear the financial burden alone.