Bitten by a Dog in Cuyahoga County?
Ohio Law Is on Your Side.
Ohio doesn't make you prove an owner knew their dog was dangerous. Under strict liability, if you were lawfully present and a dog injured you — the owner is responsible. Period.
No fee unless we recover — call (216) 363-6040
Why Ohio Favors Victims
Avery's Law (H.B. 247) — Ohio's biggest dog law overhaul in decades. New criminal penalties, $100K mandatory insurance for dangerous dogs, and expanded warden authority.
Understanding the Law
Ohio's Strict Liability Standard
One of the strongest victim protections in the country — and it applies to every municipality in Cuyahoga County.
Most states follow the “one bite rule,” requiring you to prove a dog's owner already knew the animal was dangerous. Ohio is different. Under R.C. § 955.28, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries their animals cause — regardless of the dog's history.
If you were lawfully on the property and were not provoking the animal, the owner is responsible for your medical bills, lost wages, pain, and other damages. You don't need to prove negligence. You don't need prior incidents. The law speaks for itself.
Read the Full Legal Analysis →“The owner, keeper, or harborer of a dog is liable in damages for any injury, death, or loss to person or property that is caused by the dog, unless the person was trespassing or committing a criminal offense on the property of the owner, keeper, or harborer, or was teasing, tormenting, or abusing the dog.”— Ohio Revised Code § 955.28(B)
Claim Requirements
Three Elements of a Successful Claim
Ohio's strict liability framework simplifies what you need to prove.
The Dog Caused Injury
You suffered a physical injury, property damage, or other loss directly caused by a dog — including bites, knockdowns, and attacks.
Ownership Is Identified
The defendant is the owner, keeper, or harborer of the dog. This can include landlords, dog-sitters, or anyone who had custody.
No Victim Provocation
You were lawfully present and were not trespassing, committing a criminal offense, or teasing, tormenting, or abusing the dog.
Local Coverage
Cuyahoga County Municipalities
Each page covers local ordinances, court venues, and risk factors specific to that community.
Injured by a Dog in Cuyahoga County?
Consult Thomas P. Ryan at Ryan LLP for a free case evaluation. Get the compensation Ohio law entitles you to — with no upfront cost.