Best Dog Bite Attorneys in Cleveland

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Cleveland, Ohio?

  The non-emergency contact number for the Cleveland Division of Police is 216-621-1234.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Cleveland, Ohio?

  You can request a copy of a police report in Cleveland by filling out a form at https://ohtrafficdata.dps.ohio.gov/crashretrieval and mailing it to 1300 Ontario St. or emailing it to policerecords@city.cleveland.oh.us.

• What should a victim of a dog attack in Cleveland do?

  After you have been attacked by a dog in Cleveland, seek medical help immediately. Report the incident to the Division of Kennels at 216-664-3069 and provide the following information: the date and address of the incident and the dog owner's name. Keep a copy of your medical records and prescriptions because these will be needed to obtain compensation for your injuries.

• Can a dog bite victim in Cleveland file a lawsuit against the owner of a dog?

  Yes. A dog bite victim in Cleveland may file a lawsuit against the owner. The city observes strict liability laws, which state that dog bite victims in Cleveland do not have to prove the owner's negligence. The dog owner will be held liable for damages as long as the victim did not engage in taunting or teasing behavior toward the dog that resulted in the assault.

• In Cleveland, is it possible to retain a dog with the possibility of causing serious harm, and if so, what are the requirements?

  Yes. To keep a dog in Cleveland with the possibility of causing severe injuries, the owner must have a dog license, liability insurance of at least $100,000, and a roofed pen or fence that is six feet high. The owner's property must have a sign at each entry point that reads, "Level two threat dog." In addition, the dog must be neutered or spayed and have an identification tattoo or microchip.

• What will happen to a dog that has bitten someone in Cleveland?

  A dog that has bitten someone in Cleveland will be quarantined with a veterinarian for 10 days to undergo observation. The dog will be released after the examination results have been submitted to the City Animal Control Officer. The dog's owner should pay the cost of the quarantine.

• If someone in Cleveland gets injured while running away from a chasing dog, will they get compensation for the injuries sustained?

  Yes. Anyone injured while running away from a chasing dog in Cleveland may be entitled to compensation. According to Ohio Revised Code Section 955.28, dog owners are accountable for any damage their dogs may cause. The owner is still responsible for any injuries caused during the escape, even if the dog didn't bite the victim.