Cleveland.com reports that two pit bull mixes recently attacked a 60-year-old Fairview Park woman when she tried to prevent them from killing her dog. She was unsuccessful in protecting her eight-pound toy poodle mix and the dog was mauled to death. She sustained bruises and cuts during the attack and was taken to Fairview Hospital for treatment.
According to the police report, the woman was walking her dog in Fairview Park, OH when the two large dogs rushed through a gate that was not properly secured. They seized on the small dog and knocked the elderly woman to the ground when she tried to protect it. The owner of the pit bull mixes was away at the time and a friend of his was in charge of the animals.
The matter has been referred to the Fairview Park Prosecutor who will decide if criminal charges should be brought against the owner. This incident could also be taken up in civil court by the injured party.
The Insurance Information Institute states that Ohio ranks seventh in the nation for reported dog bites. 604 claims were noted in 2015, with an average claim being $33,294. Nation wide, dog related injuries accounted for more than one-third of all homeowners’ insurance liability claim dollars paid out in 2015. Due to the aggressive nature of some dogs, however, some insurance companies do not insure certain breeds.
The Last Thing You Should Worry About Is How You’re Going To Pay For Your Medical Bills.
(614) 545-3930 Ohio is a strict liability state when it comes to dog bites. A dog owner owner is presumed legally responsible whenever their dog bites, injures, or causes a loss to another person or the property of another person. It is not important that the dog hasn’t injured before. One attack and the owner is liable. It is important to note there are filing deadlines to keep in mind if you are injured. As a dog bite injury law firm we are well equipped to answer any of your questions.
We at The Fitch Law Firm extend our condolences to the victim of this tragedy. We hope your wounds heal quickly and that you are not emotionally scarred from this terrible attack. We know a treasured pet is family and that such a loss is one that may take years to overcome.
Do you have questions about a serious dog bite injury you or someone you know may have suffered? Call us today for a free consultation about the law and your rights in such a case. You may be entitled to compensation.