Youngstown Dog Bite Attorney Advocates for  Victims of Animal Attacks

Helping Victims of Severe Dog Bites Across Ohio

Dogs can sometimes transition unexpectedly from a friendly pet to a dangerous threat. A large dog’s bites can crush bones with its powerful jaws, while some may cause injury by jumping and knocking individuals to the ground. Even smaller dogs can cause serious harm, like skin punctures, nerve damage, or infections. If you’ve been injured in a dog attack, Youngstown Criminal Law Group is here to support you. Our dedicated Ohio Injury lawyer provides aggressive legal representation aimed at securing the compensation you’re entitled to.

The Impact of Dog-Related Injuries in the United States

Each year, over 4.5 million people in the United States experience dog bites. Among these incidents, roughly 45% of injuries affect the hands or arms of the victims. Close to 18% of these cases are severe enough to warrant an emergency room visit. Recent statistics from the Centers for Disease Control indicate a disturbing rise in dog attacks nationwide—including fatal ones. Certain breeds, such as pit bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, and Huskies, are more frequently linked to these tragic events. Alarmingly, children account for approximately 57% of fatalities in dog attack cases.

Understanding Liability for Dog Bites in Ohio

Dog Bite Laws in Youngstown

Dog bite laws differ vastly across various states, and Ohio has its own unique distinctions. Generally, liability depends upon the circumstances surrounding the event. If a dog owner allows their pet to roam without restraint, and the dog injures someone while at large, the strict liability statute usually applies. This means the owner is legally responsible for all injuries caused.

Alternatively, if the dog is kept on the owner’s property or walked on a leash, the case is governed by common law. Under these circumstances, prior incidents of aggression—such as previous bites or threatening behavior—often determine liability. Should the dog have never previously behaved aggressively, the victim must demonstrate that the owner acted negligently in controlling their pet.

Legal Defenses for Dog Owners   

It’s important to understand that dog owners may also have viable legal defenses. For example, if a victim over the age of seven provoked the dog—through taunting, teasing, or trespassing—Ohio’s comparative negligence law could lower or completely void the potential recovery amount.

Maximizing the Value of a Dog Bite Compensation Claim

Victims of dog bites deserve proper compensation for their medical expenses, emotional distress, and other damages related to the incident. Recoverable amounts can extend beyond economic losses (e.g., medical bills, lost wages) to include non-economic harms, such as pain, suffering, and trauma-related disorders like agoraphobia or recurring nightmares.

Our Youngstown Injury Lawyer at Youngstown Criminal Law Group is dedicated to pursuing the full value of dog bite claims. We work closely with medical professionals to assess the extent of both physical and psychological injuries, ensuring that every critical detail is considered in building a strong case for you.

Contact a Dedicated Dog Bite Attorney in Youngstown, Ohio

At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, we are committed to protecting the legal rights of individuals affected by dog bites and other animal attacks across Ohio. Whether you’re in Youngstown or its surrounding areas, our goal is to secure fair financial compensation for your injuries.

Schedule your free consultation with our trusted team today. Call (330) 992-3036 or visit our website to learn more.