Should You File an Insurance Claim for a Dog Bite?

Dogs are known for their loyalty, friendliness, affection, and many other positive qualities. At the same time, dogs also have the potential to be quite dangerous. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) reports that nearly five million people are bitten by dogs each year in the United States. One in five dog bite victims seeks professional medical attention. 

If you were bitten by a dog, you may be wondering: Should I file an insurance claim to get compensation for my dog bite injuries? The answer depends on a few different factors. In this blog post, our Toledo dog bite attorneys explain the key things to know about filing an insurance claim for a dog bite injury in Ohio.

Dog Bite Law in Ohio: Know Your Rights

As a starting point, it is important to have a general understanding of how dog bite injury laws work in Ohio. Under Ohio Revised Code Section 955.28(B), a dog owner can be held strictly liable for injuries caused by a dog bite. To bring a strict liability claim against a canine owner, a dog bite victim must establish that: 

• He or she was not trespassing at the time of the attack; and
• He or she did not provoke the dog bite. 

While most dog bite claims are filed against the animal’s owner, some third-party property owners (landlords, apartment complexes, etc.) may also bear liability. In general, a dog bite claim against a third party is a negligence claim. 

What to Know About Insurance Claims and Dog Bite Injuries

Most dog bite claims are handled by insurance companies. An individual’s homeowners’ insurance policy or other related policy may bear responsibility for a dog bite. Before you file a dog bite claim against an insurance carrier, it is crucial that you understand the scope of the coverage. Further, you should be prepared to present a strong, compelling initial claim that demonstrates that the policyholder in question is liable for your dog bite injuries. An experienced Toledo, OH dog bite injury lawyer can help you put together a well-prepared insurance claim. 

 Speak to a Dog Bite Injury Lawyer in Toledo, OH

At Lafferty, Gallagher & Scott, LLC, our Ohio dog bite attorneys are here to provide top quality, results-driven advocacy. If you have any questions about dog bites and the insurance claims process, we are available to help. Contact our law firm today for a no cost, no commitment case review. Our firm provides dog bite representation throughout Northwest Ohio, including in Toledo, Perrysburg, Bowling Green, Swanton, Fremont, Delta, Liberty Center, Oak Harbor, and Gibsonburg.