Dog Bite Attorneys in Toledo, OH

Dog Bite Attorneys in Toledo, OH

Dogs are beloved companions and are often considered part of the family. There are unfortunately rare instances where dogs can become aggressive and may bite, leading to severe injuries and emotional trauma.

If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite, it is essential to understand your rights and the legal options available to you. Dog bite incidents fall under premises liability—a category of personal injury law. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.

At the Buckeye Law Group, we are dedicated to helping you and other dog bite victims in Toledo navigate the legal process and obtain the compensation you deserve. Our personal injury lawyers understand the complexities of dog bite laws in Ohio, and we’ll fight for the successful outcome you deserve. Dog Bite Attorneys in Toledo, OH are here to provide you with the experienced legal support you need.

How Can the Ohio One-Bite Rule Affect Your Case?

In Ohio, dogs don’t need to have a history of aggressive behavior for their owners to face legal problems. If you were attacked by a dog from your neighborhood while taking a walk or jogging, it doesn’t matter whether the dog has bitten or attacked people before—you can still file a successful personal injury claim with the help of Dog Bite Attorneys in Toledo, OH.

The state follows a strict liability rule when it comes to dog bites, which means that dog owners are responsible for the actions of their pets regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression or previous incidents. Dog Bite Attorneys in Toledo, OH can guide you through understanding how this rule applies to your case.

The truth is even the most mild-mannered dog can become aggressive. It’s their owner’s duty to take reasonable measures like walking the dog on a leash and securing the backyard to prevent such incidents. Strict liability doesn’t necessarily mean every dog bite claim is easy to win. For example, if the victim provoked the dog, trespassed on private property without permission, or was engaged in illegal activities at the time of the incident, they will likely face challenges with their claim. There can also be difficulties if you don’t have evidence or witnesses and the dog owner’s version of events contradicts your own.

Proving Your Dog Bite Case

Proving a dog bite case requires the plaintiff (the injured party) to provide evidence that establishes certain key elements of the claim. In a dog bite case, the burden of proof lies on the plaintiff, meaning they are responsible for presenting convincing evidence to support their claim. Dog Bite Attorneys in Toledo, OH are skilled in gathering and presenting this crucial evidence.

Important evidence in dog bite cases may include:

Establishing dog ownership and control: The plaintiff must demonstrate that the defendant (the dog owner) had ownership or control of the dog at the time of the incident. This can typically be established through witness testimony, photographs or any other available evidence.

Demonstrating the dog’s aggression or dangerous propensity: In some states, including Ohio, the plaintiff may not need to prove that the dog had a history of aggressive behavior or previous bites to establish liability. However, showing that the dog had a known aggressive nature or displayed dangerous propensities can strengthen the case. This can be supported by witness statements, previous complaints or incidents involving the dog, or expert testimony.

Proving the incident occurred: The plaintiff must provide evidence to establish that a dog bite incident actually occurred. This can be accomplished through medical records, photographs of the injuries, witness statements or any other documentation related to the incident.

Demonstrating damages: The plaintiff needs to demonstrate the extent of the injuries and damages suffered as a result of the dog bite. This can be supported by medical records, bills, testimony from healthcare professionals, bills, paystubs and other relevant receipts or documentation.

Each dog bite case is unique, and the specific evidence required may vary depending on the circumstances. That’s why it’s often in the best interest of dog bite victims to work with an experienced Dog Bite Attorney in Toledo, OH who can help build a strong case and navigate the legal complexities involved in proving a dog bite claim.