Ohio’s Top Ten Dangerous Dog Breeds
Posted in Personal Injury on June 15, 2016
While all dogs are capable of attacking people, it is a statistical fact that some dog breeds are more likely to attack people than others. The Center of Disease Control and Prevention reported that over 4.6 million Americans are bitten each year and according to insurance companies the average dog bite claim is around $30,000. Ohio has made a list of dogs that are the most dangerous and vicious breeds. This list does not mean that all dogs of this breed will bite, but if you happen to encounter a dog on this list you should be aware that the animal may have an aggressive personality and avoid any potential contact with the dog. This is especially true if you are unfamiliar with the dog or if small children may be involved since they may innocently try approaching the dog.
The top 10 dangerous dog breeds on the Ohio list are:
- Pit bull
- Rottweiler
- German Shepherd
- Husky
- Alaskan Malamute
- Doberman Pinscher
- Chow
- Great Dane
- Bernard
- Akita
If a dog has displayed aggressive characteristics or previously bitten someone the county animal control officer may designate the animal as either a “vicious”, “dangerous” or “nuisance” dog. If a dog has been given one of these legal designations the owner may be required to take special precautions to fence the dog, get special tags, register the dog, purchase special liability insurance and microchip the animal. Even if the dog has been given a designation, people unfamiliar with the animal may not be aware of that particular dog’s designation and aggressive tendencies. As such, it is always best to try and avoid coming into contract with dogs that are unfamiliar to you, especially when they are one of the top 10 dangerous dog breeds listed above.
What To do After An Injury
An owner, keeper, or harborer of a dog that attacks a person may be held liable for injuries and damages regardless of whether it was the first bite, had been previously designated as a “dangerous ” dog, or was of any particular breed. This is because Ohio has enacted a strict liability statute O.R.C. § 955.28 for dog bites. If you have been attacked by a dog you should be aware that most lawsuits must be brought within two years from the date of the attack. An attorney experienced in handling dog bite claims will be able to answer your questions regarding any potential claim. The Brannon Law Firm offers free consultations to dog bite victims and is experienced in handling all types of dog bite litigation. For a free consultation with a Dayton personal injury lawyer call (937) 228-2306 or 1-(800)-VERDICT (837-3428), today to speak directly with an attorney.