Being bitten by a dog can be frightening and confusing. It is normal to feel shaken and unsure of what to do next. Taking the right steps immediately can help protect your health and your legal rights. Here are the most important steps to take if you or someone you care about is bitten by a dog in Ohio.
1. Get Medical Help Right Away Always seek medical attention as soon as possible after a dog bite. Even a small wound can become infected or cause long-term damage if untreated. A healthcare provider can clean and treat the wound, check for deeper injuries, and start vaccines or antibiotics if necessary. Keep all medical records and receipts since they may be important later if you file a claim.
2. Report the Bite to Local Health Officials In Ohio, all dog bites must be reported to your local health department within 24 hours. You can find contact details for local health districts on the Ohio Department of Health website. Reporting helps protect public health and ensures the dog is quarantined and monitored. The rule requiring this report is part of Ohio Administrative Code Rule 3701-3-28. If you are unsure who to contact, call your city or county health department for guidance.
3. Collect Important Details at the Scene If you can, gather as much information as possible before leaving the area. Record the dog owner’s name, address, and phone number. Note where and when the bite happened. Take photos of your injuries, the dog, and the surroundings. Ask witnesses for their contact information. This documentation helps both health officials and your attorney if you later decide to pursue a claim.
4. Understand Quarantine and Rabies Procedures Under Ohio Revised Code § 955.261, a dog that bites a person must usually remain in the county and be quarantined for at least ten days. The dog will be monitored for signs of illness, including rabies. You can read more about these procedures through your local health department. These rules protect both you and others by ensuring that animals involved in bite incidents are properly observed.
5. Keep Track of All Expenses Keep a folder with all related documents, including medical bills, medication costs, lost wages, and transportation expenses. Even minor injuries can lead to hidden costs over time. Organized records make it easier to prove how the incident affected you financially and physically.
6. Consider Contacting an Attorney You are not required to hire a lawyer, but professional help can make a difference if your injuries are serious or if the dog owner or their insurance company disputes responsibility. An experienced Ohio dog bite lawyer can explain your options, handle insurance negotiations, and make sure your rights are protected.
7. Know the Time Limits In most Ohio dog bite cases, you have two years from the date of the bite to file a personal injury claim. Acting quickly helps preserve evidence and gives your attorney time to build your case. Waiting too long can limit your ability to recover compensation.
8. Take Care of Yourself and Your Family Dog bites can cause emotional stress in addition to physical injury. Follow up with your doctor, rest as needed, and take time to heal. Children may need reassurance or counseling after an attack. Taking care of yourself helps you recover faster.
Speak With an Ohio Dog Bite Lawyer Today If you or a family member has been bitten by a dog in Ohio, visit OhioDogBiteLawyer.us to learn more or request a free consultation. Attorney George R. Oryshkewych helps victims across Cuyahoga, Lorain, Medina, Summit, and other Ohio counties get the guidance and compensation they deserve.
