By Ali Latif, Esq. | Latif Law, LLC | Columbus, Ohio
Ohio has one of the strongest dog bite liability statutes in the United States. If you or a family member has been bitten or attacked by a dog in Columbus, you have important legal rights — and the dog's owner is very likely responsible regardless of whether the animal had ever shown aggression before.
Ohio's Strict Liability Rule
Most states follow a "one free bite" rule, meaning the owner is only liable after the dog has previously shown dangerous tendencies. Ohio does not. Under Ohio Revised Code § 955.28, a dog's owner (or keeper, or harborer) is strictly liable for damages if:
"Strictly liable" means the victim does not need to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous. A first-time bite is fully compensable under Ohio law.
What Counts as an Attack?
Ohio's statute covers more than a traditional bite. Courts have found liability for:
The key question is whether the dog's action caused the injury, not whether skin was broken.
What Damages Can a Bite Victim Recover?
Depending on the severity of the attack, recoverable damages include:
Dog bites frequently cause serious infections, nerve damage, and permanent scarring, especially when children are the victims. The long-term cost of treating facial injuries in children can be substantial.
Who Actually Pays?
In most cases, the dog owner's homeowner's insurance or renter's insurance pays the claim. Ohio courts consistently find homeowner policies cover dog bite liability. If the owner is uninsured or underinsured, a judgment against them personally is possible, though collecting may be more difficult.
What to Do Immediately After a Dog Bite in Columbus
1. Seek medical attention immediately — dog bites are prone to serious infection
2. Report the attack to Columbus Public Health or Franklin County Dog Wardens (614-525-3647) — this creates an official record
3. Photograph all injuries as soon as possible and at every stage of healing
4. Get the owner's name, address, and insurance information
5. Ask whether the dog is current on rabies vaccination
6. Get contact information from any witnesses
7. Keep all medical records and bills
The Two-Year Deadline
Ohio's statute of limitations for personal injury claims — including dog bites — is two years from the date of the attack. Do not wait. Evidence fades, witnesses become unavailable, and owners may move or change insurance coverage.
Why You Need an Attorney
Insurance companies for dog owners are experienced at minimizing bite claims. They may dispute the severity of injuries, argue provocation, or claim you were trespassing. An attorney gathers evidence, communicates with the insurer, retains medical experts when necessary, and ensures the claim accounts for future scarring treatment, psychological impact, and all long-term costs — not just the initial ER bill.
At Latif Law, we handle dog bite cases on a flat 33% contingency fee — no costs unless you recover.
Learn more about our dog bite practice →
Call: (614) 285-5254
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this does not create an attorney-client relationship with Latif Law, LLC. Ohio dog bite law has specific defenses and exceptions — consult a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation.