Dog attacks can be traumatic, leaving both physical and emotional scars. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Ohio, it’s important to understand your rights and responsibilities.
Ohio has specific dog bite reporting requirements, and knowing what steps to take after a dog attack can protect your health and legal options.
In this blog, we’ll explain the Ohio dog bite reporting requirements, what happens if you don’t report a dog bite, and how to report a dog attack. If you’ve experienced a dog bite, the team at Bensinger Legal Services is here to help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve.
To arrange a free consultation with an experienced Ohio dog bite lawyer, feel free to call us directly at (419) 455-1410 or you can contact us online. We look forward to helping you.
Do Dog Bites Have to Be Reported in Ohio?
Yes. Dog bites must be reported in Ohio. According to Ohio Revised Code Section 955.261, anyone with knowledge of a dog bite incident must report it to the local health commissioner or animal control authority. This includes the victim, dog owner, and healthcare providers or witnesses.
The primary purpose of reporting a dog bite is to assess the potential for rabies exposure and ensure that the dog is quarantined and monitored for any signs of illness. Additionally, reporting helps authorities track dangerous dogs and prevent future attacks.
Failure to report a dog bite can lead to public health risks, as it may expose other individuals to potentially dangerous or aggressive animals. Reporting also establishes a record of the attack, which can be critical if you decide to pursue legal action against the dog owner for your injuries.
What Happens If You Don’t Report a Dog Bite?
There are personal and public consequences if you fail to adhere to Ohio dog bite reporting requirements. One of the primary risks is rabies, a serious and potentially fatal disease that can spread through a dog bite.
Without proper reporting and quarantine of the dog, rabies exposure might go undetected, putting your health and others at risk. Additionally, failing to report a bite could limit your legal recourse if you file a claim for damages later. Establishing an official record through a report is key to building a strong case for compensation.
Furthermore, Ohio law requires the quarantine of a dog after a bite to observe for rabies; without reporting, this procedure may not occur. Protect your health and future by understanding that reporting a dog bite is a legal requirement and a crucial step in ensuring your safety.
Do Doctors Have to Report Dog Bites?
Yes. In Ohio, healthcare providers have a legal obligation to report dog bites. If you seek medical attention after a dog bite, your doctor or the hospital will file a report with local authorities.
This report ensures proper protocols are followed, such as observing the dog for rabies and documenting the injury.
If you’re wondering if doctors have to report dog bites, rest assured that this requirement is in place to protect both the victim and the community.
Filing a Dog Bite Police Report
In some cases, filing a dog bite police report may be necessary. If the dog’s owner refuses to cooperate or if the dog is known to be aggressive, contacting law enforcement is a smart step. While the local health department is the primary agency for handling dog bites, the police can assist in situations where the dog or owner poses an ongoing threat to public safety. A police report can also provide additional documentation for your personal injury claim.
How to Report a Dog Attack
How to report a dog attack in Ohio depends on the severity of the situation. If the bite is serious and requires immediate medical attention, contact emergency services first. Then, follow up with your local health department or animal control.
You can contact the health department directly if the bite is less severe. They will investigate the bite, ensure the dog is quarantined, and monitor for rabies. You can typically file a report online or over the phone by providing details of the incident, including the dog’s description, the owner’s information (if known), and the circumstances of the attack.
What Are the Next Steps After Reporting?
Once you report the bite, authorities will handle the investigation. They will check the dog’s vaccination status, determine if quarantine is necessary, and keep the public informed. For the bite victim, getting medical treatment and documenting your injuries is essential. This documentation can include taking photos, getting witness statements, and keeping records of all medical care received.
In many cases, dog bite victims can receive compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. Ohio follows a strict liability law, meaning the dog owner is typically responsible for the bite, even if the dog had no previous history of aggression.
Contact Bensinger Legal Services for Legal Guidance
At Bensinger Legal Services, we understand the emotional and physical toll a dog bite can take. We have extensive experience helping clients navigate Ohio’s legal system to get the compensation they deserve.
Reporting a dog bite is just the first step. Our team will work with you to hold the responsible party accountable and fight for the justice and financial relief you need to move forward.
If a dog has injured you, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. We’ll help you understand your legal rights and guide you through the process every step of the way.
For more information about Ohio dog bite reporting requirements or to schedule a consultation, contact Bensinger Legal Services today.You can call us directly at (419) 455-1410 or you can contact us online. You don’t have to go through this alone—we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Aaron L. Bensinger is an Ohio attorney serving personal injury and civil litigation clients. He has extensive trial experience and makes client service is his primary focus. As a partner at Balyeat, Leahy, Daley, Miller & Bensinger, LLC, Aaron happily works in Lima, OH, and serves the entire Northwest region of the state and beyond.
Loading...