Dog Bite Injury
Expert legal representation for victims of dog attacks. We fight to secure the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, trauma, and ongoing care needs.
Free ConsultationDog Bite Injury Attorneys
While a dog is well known to be man's best friend, anyone who has been seriously bitten or mauled by a dog knows that a dog attack can be a very traumatic and devastating experience. According to the United States Centers for Disease and Control Prevention (CDC), approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur each year in the U.S. Young children are often the victims of dog bite attacks, with the CDC reporting the rate of dog bite-related injuries being highest for children between the ages of 5 and 9 years old.
What to Do When You Are Attacked
If you, your spouse or your child are attacked by a dog, the first thing you need to do is to seek medical attention. Your doctor can provide you with the medical care you need to treat the dog bite injury and prevent infection. Additionally, visiting a doctor will give you the medical documentation you will need should you decide to file a lawsuit.
If possible, you should also take photos of your injuries as well as the scene of the attack. Additionally, if your clothing has been bloodied or torn, you should keep it because it may be important evidence in your case. In the event you are not familiar with the dog's owner, you need to write down his or her name, address and phone number and do the same for any witnesses to the attack.
After you have properly attended to your injuries, it is very important to seek the advice of qualified lawyer. A dog bite lawyer at The Podor Law Firm can explain your legal rights and help you get the relief you are legally entitled to. When you work with our firm, we will carefully evaluate your situation to determine all available avenues of recovery and get to work to ensure you get the treatment and compensation you deserve.
Common Types of Dog Bite Injuries
Dog attacks can cause a range of serious injuries that may require extensive medical treatment:
- Puncture wounds and lacerations
- Facial injuries and disfigurement
- Broken bones from falls during attacks
- Nerve damage
- Infection (including dangerous infections like rabies, MRSA, and tetanus)
- Scarring and permanent disfigurement
- Emotional trauma and PTSD
- In severe cases, death (especially for children)
Dog Bite Liability Laws
Dog bite liability laws vary by state, but both Ohio and Florida have specific statutes that can benefit victims:
Ohio's Dog Bite Laws:
Ohio follows a "strict liability" rule for dog bites. This means that the dog owner is liable for any injuries their dog causes, regardless of whether the dog had previously shown aggressive tendencies or whether the owner knew the dog was dangerous. The owner is responsible even for the first bite, making it easier for victims to recover compensation.
Florida's Dog Bite Laws:
Florida also has a strict liability statute for dog bites. Under Florida law, dog owners are liable for damages if their dog bites someone who is in a public place or lawfully in a private place. However, Florida has a "comparative negligence" provision where liability may be reduced if the victim's negligence contributed to the injury.
Compensation Available for Dog Bite Victims
If you've been injured by a dog, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation:
- Medical expenses (including future medical care)
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and psychological trauma
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- In fatal cases, wrongful death damages
Special Considerations for Child Victims
Children are particularly vulnerable to dog attacks, and cases involving child victims require special handling:
- Children may suffer more severe emotional trauma following a dog attack
- Future medical procedures may be necessary as the child grows
- Scarring and disfigurement can have long-term psychological impacts
- The statute of limitations may be extended for minors
- Cases often require expert testimony to project future impacts and costs
Why You Need an Experienced Dog Bite Attorney
While dog bite cases may seem straightforward, they can quickly become complex:
- Insurance companies often try to minimize the severity of injuries
- Dog owners may claim the victim provoked the dog
- Multiple parties may share liability (owners, property owners, caretakers)
- Determining the full extent of damages requires medical and psychological expertise
- State and local laws regarding dog bites can be nuanced
At Podor Law, our experienced dog bite attorneys understand these complexities and will fight to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible for your injuries.
Free Consultation
Our Practice Areas
Client Testimonial
"Mr. Podor handled a dog bite case for me. ( which is still ongoing ) so professional, fast and unbelievably easy to get in touch with. I have never had an attorney that was so accessible to me. Whenever I call or text him I always get an immediate response. He is always on top of the issues and always answers my questions. I would give their law office a 10 but they only allow 5 stars. I would definitely recommend Podor Law Firm."
— Danielle D., Dog Bite Client
Why Choose Podor Law
Dog Bite Expertise
Our attorneys have extensive experience handling dog bite cases and understand the unique medical and legal issues involved in these claims.
No Fee Unless We Win
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. There are no upfront costs.
Compassionate Approach
We understand the trauma that dog bite victims experience and handle your case with sensitivity while aggressively pursuing your claim.
Thorough Investigation
We meticulously investigate dog bite cases, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and working with medical experts to build a strong claim.
Proven Results
Our firm has successfully recovered millions of dollars for dog bite victims, including both children and adults throughout Ohio and Florida.
Focus on Recovery
We handle all aspects of your case so you can focus on physical and emotional healing while we pursue maximum compensation on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bitten by a Dog? We Can Help
Dog bite injuries can be physically and emotionally devastating. Our experienced attorneys will fight to hold the responsible parties accountable and help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Schedule Your Free Consultation