Dog Bites

“I have been there so many times before and NOW I will be there for YOU and your family.”
- Tim Misny - The man that “Makes Them Pay!®”

“Please understand that the slogan, I’ll Make Them Pay!® is not a guarantee of payment. Both liability and real damages must be proven with preponderance of the evidence.” – Tim Misny

Dog Bites

Dog Bite Lawyer Cleveland: Tim Misny

If you or a family member has been severely injured by a dog bite, call Tim Misny now!

Half of all U.S. households have dogs, which means there are 70-80 million dogs in this country.  It is not surprising to learn that nearly 5 million people suffer dog bites every year.

Ohio Dog Bite Law

Under Ohio law, Cleveland dog bite lawyers recognize the liability for dog bites is primarily governed by a “strict liability” standard. This means that dog owners are held responsible for any injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of the dog’s past behavior or the owner’s knowledge of its aggressive tendencies. The law applies to both public and private property, as long as the victim was lawfully present. It is important to note that Ohio does not enforce a “one-bite rule,” which means in a dog attack the owner can be held liable for a dog bite even if it is the first incident. However, there are certain exceptions to this strict liability, such as if the victim was trespassing or provoking the dog at the time of the incident. Additionally, if someone other than the owner is in possession and control of the dog at the time of the bite, they may also be held liable for the resulting injuries.

Under Ohio law, a dog owner is held liable if their dog bites someone regardless of the dog’s prior history. That is why if you or someone you love was catastrophically injured as the result of a dog bite, you need to call me right away.

As a Cleveland dog bite lawyer, I can help you navigate the complicated legal process, so you can be rightfully compensated for your injuries. The severity of your dog bite injury will become very important in determining your damages.

Common Injuries Resulting From Dog Bites

Fractures

A dog bite can cause a bone fracture by exerting significant force on the affected area, leading to a break or crack in the bone. Complications such as infection, nerve damage, or injury to surrounding tissues may arise from the bone fracture caused by a dog attack. The healing process typically involves immobilization of the affected limb, realignment if necessary, and gradual bone repair through the formation of new tissue. Physical therapy may be necessary to restore strength and function where the dog bite occurred.

Infections

Infections resulting from a bite occur when bacteria from the dog’s mouth enter the wound, leading to potential complications such as cellulitis or abscess formation. These infections can cause pain, redness, swelling, and may spread to surrounding tissues. Treatment typically involves cleaning the wound thoroughly, administering antibiotics, and, in a severe dog bite case, surgical drainage of abscesses.

Joint Dislocation

The force of the bite can cause possible joint dislocation, leading to the misalignment of bones within a joint. This can result in pain, limited range of motion, joint instability, and potential damage to ligaments, tendons, and cartilage. Dog bite victims may need treatment such as a manual reduction to realign the joint, immobilization with a splint or cast, and physical therapy to regain strength and mobility. In some extreme cases, surgical intervention to repair or reconstruct damaged structures.

Crushing Injuries

An animal attack can lead to crushing injuries. Dog bites involve the compression of tissues, blood vessels, and bones, leading to significant pain, swelling, tissue damage, and impaired function. Complications can include severe bleeding, nerve or vascular damage, and potential infection. Treatment often requires emergency medical attention, wound irrigation, debridement if necessary, and fracture stabilization. Some dog bite wounds require reconstructive surgery to repair damaged structures and promote healing.

Lacerations

Lacerations caused by bites result in deep cuts or tears in the skin, muscles, tendons, or other structures. These wounds are at high risk of infection due to the introduction of bacteria from the dog’s mouth. Treatment involves thorough cleaning, irrigation, and sometimes surgical repair with sutures or staples. Antibiotics may be prescribed, and tetanus vaccination is often administered if needed.

Amputations

A severe consequence of a bite may be an amputation, if the force is sufficient enough to sever a body part. This traumatic injury leads to permanent loss of function, extensive bleeding, and significant physical and psychological trauma. Immediate medical attention is necessary to control the bleeding. Surgical intervention to remove any remaining tissue, wound closure, and subsequent rehabilitation with prosthetics or adaptive devices could be used as well.

Severe Scarring

A dangerous dog may cause severe scarring as a result of a deep or complex bite. This may result in disfigurement and potential functional impairment. Treatment may involve wound closure techniques to minimize tension on the wound edges. Use of dressings and scar management therapies such as silicone gel or sheet are required. In some cases, you may need surgical procedures such as a scar revision, or skin graft to improve the appearance and function of the affected area.

Bruising and Contusions

Bruising and contusions can occur as a result of the impact from a dog bite, leading to discoloration, tenderness, and pain in the affected area. While generally less severe than other complications, this can still cause a great deal of discomfort and may indicate underlying tissue damage. As a result of the bruising and contusions, healing typically involves rest, cold compresses, elevation, and over-the-counter pain medications. The bruises gradually fade over time as the body absorbs the accumulated blood.

While some of these injuries seem minor, others can cause life-long physical and psychological problems. Dog bite injuries can be permanent and devastating. As a highly experienced dog bite attorney, I will help you recover compensation for both past and future medical damages, emotional trauma, pain and suffering. Call me today. We’ll file a claim against the dog’s owner, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®

Damages For Dog Bites

Medical Expenses: This includes compensation for all current and future medical costs related to the bite, such as emergency room treatment, surgeries, medications, follow-up appointments, physical therapy, and any other medical treatments. It is necessary to cover the financial burden of medical care and ensure your recovery.

Pain and Suffering: This category seeks compensation for physical and emotional pain caused by the dog bite. It includes the physical discomfort, trauma, anxiety, and distress experienced as a result of the incident. The compensation acknowledges and provides relief for your suffering.

Lost Wages: If the dog attack leads to missed work or the inability to work in the future, we will claim compensation for lost wages. This covers the income you would have earned had you not been injured, helping to mitigate the financial impact of the dog bite. Even if the injury seemed minor, if you missed work, you should file a dog bite claim.

Rehabilitation and Therapy: In cases where the bite results in long-term physical or psychological effects, compensation may be sought for rehabilitation and therapy services. This includes costs for physical rehabilitation, occupational therapy, psychological counseling, or other necessary therapies to aid in your recovery and adjustment.

Scarring and Disfigurement: Animal attacks can cause significant scarring or disfigurement. You should seek compensation to address the permanent physical changes and potential impact on self-esteem or quality of life. This can cover the costs of cosmetic treatments, scar revision surgeries, or psychological support related to the visible effects of the bite.

Property Damage: In some instances, a dog bite can result in damage to personal property, such as torn clothing, broken glasses, or other belongings. Compensation should be sought to repair or replace the damaged property.

Wrongful Death: In tragic cases where a dog bite results in the loss of life, the victim’s family or estate may pursue a wrongful death claim. Damages in this context can cover funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, and the emotional toll resulting from the untimely death.

I’ve been a personal injury lawyer for over 40 years, representing the people of Cleveland. If a dog attacks, and you’ve suffered serious injuries and have ongoing medical costs, you need to call me, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®

Dog Breeds Most Associated With Biting

While it is important to note that aggression can be influenced by factors beyond breed, some dog breeds have been historically associated with biting incidents. However, it is crucial to remember that individual dogs’ behavior can vary greatly and not all dogs of these breeds are aggressive. The following are seven dog breeds that have been mentioned in discussions relating to dog bites:

Pit Bull Terrier: Pit Bulls are a group of breeds that include the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier. They are often labeled as aggressive due to their history of dogfighting and the unfortunate exploitation of their strength. Irresponsible breeding, lack of socialization, and mistreatment can contribute to aggression in some dogs.

Rottweiler: Rottweilers are large and robust working dogs. They were historically bred for guarding and herding livestock. If not properly trained and socialized, their protective instincts can lead to aggression towards unfamiliar people or animals, leading to dog bite cases.

German Shepherd: Intelligent, versatile dogs, German Shepherds have been widely used in various working roles such as police and military work. Their strong protective instincts, if not properly managed, can manifest as aggression towards perceived threats.

Siberian Husky: Huskies are known for their endurance and sled-pulling abilities. While generally friendly and gentle, improper training, lack of mental and physical stimulation, or isolation can contribute to behavioral issues such as aggression in some Huskies.

Alaskan Malamute: Large and powerful dogs, Alaskan Malamutes were bred for heavy work and sled pulling. They possess a strong prey drive and territorial instincts, which, when combined with inadequate training or socialization, can result in aggressive behavior.

Doberman Pinscher: Dobermans are highly intelligent and loyal dogs that were initially bred for protection and guard work. If not properly trained, socialized, or given outlets for their energy, they can exhibit aggression towards perceived threats.

Great Dane: Great Danes are gentle giants known for their friendly nature. However, they can become aggressive if they feel threatened or if they are not adequately trained and socialized during their formative years.

What To Do If You Or Someone You Know Has Been Bitten

Remove oneself from immediate danger: Move away from the dog to ensure personal safety and prevent further bites or injuries.

Assess the severity of the bite: Evaluate the wound to determine its severity. Superficial bites may require basic first aid, while deep or extensive wounds may require immediate medical attention.

Clean the wound: Rinse the bite wound gently with clean water and mild soap to remove any dirt, bacteria, or debris. Thorough cleaning helps reduce the risk of infection.

Apply pressure to control bleeding: If the wound is bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or sterile bandage to control the bleeding. Elevating the affected limb can also help minimize bleeding.

Seek medical attention: Depending on the severity of the bite, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They can assess the wound, provide appropriate medical treatment, and determine if further interventions such as stitches, antibiotics, or tetanus vaccination are necessary.

Gather information: Try to obtain information about the dog, including its owner’s contact details, if possible. This information can be crucial for reporting the incident or determining the dog’s vaccination status.

Report the incident: Contact local authorities, such as animal control or the police, to report the dog bite. This helps create a record of the incident and ensures that appropriate measures are taken to prevent future bites.

Follow medical advice and treatment: Follow the healthcare professional’s instructions for wound care, medications (if prescribed), and any necessary follow-up appointments. Adhering to the recommended treatment plan promotes proper healing and reduces the risk of complications.

Consider counseling or support: Dog bites can be traumatic experiences. Seek counseling or support from a mental health professional or support groups to help address any emotional or psychological distress associated with the incident.

If You or a Loved One Was Injured as a Result of a Dog Bite in Cleveland, or Anywhere in Ohio, Call Me for a Free Consultation. With Offices throughout Ohio, I’ll be there for you, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®

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Krystle Banks
Krystle Banks
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Christine Filippelli
Christine Filippelli
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DeAndre Merritt
DeAndre Merritt
06:58 23 Mar 23
Jake Ferri
Jake Ferri
23:46 01 Aug 22
I have no case and no one that I need Tim Misney to make pay, just wanted to say the best part of my day is getting to... drive by his billboards. His People's Eyebrow is immaculate and the new billboard with him on the motorcycle is downright bitchin'. Thank you Tim Misney for significantly improving the quality of my life.read more
Jennifer Malainy
Jennifer Malainy
22:44 19 Jul 22
My favorite lawyer. Truly one of the kindest, smartest, and most genuine humans I have ever met. There is only one TIM... MISNY and he will make them pay!! God Bless.read more
C M V
C M V
01:16 16 Feb 22
I spoke to Amy and Christine about a possible personal injury case involving my father and they were both helpful,... professional, knowledgeable and responsive. Although they could not help us with our case, I would highly recommend them!read more
Stephen Burks
Stephen Burks
20:12 21 Jan 22
It really comes down to what people say and do when they don't think anyone that matters is listening or they'll get... anything in return.There's the Tim Misny you see on the billboards and on TV, but there's another Tim Misny that I know up close and personal.The Tim Misny I know is genuinely passionate about helping the hard working little folks who get pushed around the big folks. He actually, really honestly cares about people who run into bad luck at no fault of their own. Tim has quietly, out of the sight of cameras and with no fanfare shared generously with the marginalized in our society; single moms, Veterans and others without expecting anything in return.He calls them like he sees them and you wouldn't want to take your troubles to anyone else.read more
mark colucci
mark colucci
14:33 06 Dec 21
Mr. Misny is an angel here on earth and the BEST attorney in Ohio. He has helped my daughter who is in law school when... she needed the guidance most. He is a class act, a great family man, and extremely caring. If you need a lawyer in this field I would HIGHLY recommend. There is no other lawyer, in my opinion, better than Tim Misny.Thank you Tim for being a light in this community!read more
Damon Mitchell Sr .1st. (The Old-Man !!! Pop's !!!)
Damon Mitchell Sr .1st. (The Old-Man !!! Pop's !!!)
02:43 27 Nov 21
Advice on Law question? Also Advise to do more research for Different types of Situations that’s Criminal and Civil... Pursuits!City, State and Above State Level Situation .Pro Se !read more
Gianna Colucci
Gianna Colucci
12:56 04 Nov 21
Mr. Misny is the best! I am a 27-year-old single mother, and I am finishing law school in May at Cleveland-Marshall... College of Law. When I found myself jobless during the height of the pandemic, I knew I needed help. Going into the legal profession, I wanted to be JUST LIKE Mr. Misny because I knew he was the most successful attorney in the industry. I called him up one day just for the hell of it to see if there was anyway he could help me. I never thought such a big name/reputation like him would respond to me. However, when he learned of my financial situation he PERSONALLY called my cell phone within 5 minutes of my email. Not only has he helped me secure employment, but he continues to teach me every single day what it takes to be the BEST lawyer in the legal profession. I am forever thankful for Mr. Misny. He changed my life. He continues to inspire me every single day, and I am so proud that he took me under his wing and is my mentor. He is the most intelligent, kindest, caring attorney I have ever met, and he is giving me the tools I need to be the most successful lawyer I can be o give my four-year-old son, Gregory, the life he deserves. THANK YOU MR. TIM MISNY. I owe my entire future legal career to you because if you didn't take the time out of your busy day to call me that day and help me when no one else would, I would not have been able to stay in law school. You change lives every single day. Keep being you Tim. There is no one like Tim Misny.read more
Brandon Hagerdon
Brandon Hagerdon
20:53 18 May 21
I met Tim 6 years ago when he was working with my mother. Since then we were able to stay in touch and build a... relationship. I reached out to Tim recently about an opportunity and he was able to connect the dots and help me with this. During this process he gave me his direct number to contact him if need be. If you are in need of any sort of help, I would recommend Tim every time.read more
Jimmie Graham
Jimmie Graham
19:26 30 Mar 21
Tim is hands down the best lawyer in town. He was able to guide me through the legal process and keep me informed at... all stages. Which allowed me to not stress and focus on life. He was able to get me the best deal possible in my court case. One thing that blew me away is that he gave me his direct cell number and answered anytime I had a question which is rare with most lawyers. 100% Misny is the guy! There's a reason he's on literally every billboard in Cleveland.read more
Paul McFadden
Paul McFadden
13:29 20 Jan 21
My relationship with Tim goes back over 30 years and is one of great trust and mutual respect. Tim represented me at a... critical point in my life and I will always be indebted to him for the difference he made. He is always just a phone call away.read more
Rick Miller
Rick Miller
18:55 21 Dec 20
If I could reach into the sky just to pull more than 5 stars down for a rating I would! I have used other lawyers in... the past and it was such a pain to reach them when I needed them. Tim is in all honesty there for you. He gave me his personal phone number, and at anytime or any day he answered. If I had to leave a message I could count to 10 and he would already be calling me back. He also was willing to talk on the weekends! He didn’t just forward me to an impersonal automated system or a person with no experience. I will NEVER use another person for legal advice. He’s gracious enough to give me guidance whenever I have a question. No matter how complex. This may sound like an advertisement but I assure you this man was more in touch when I had an issue than my own family. A reasonable and caring family man who will MAKE THEM PAY!Thank you Timread more
PJ Camargo/Authentik Movement Training
PJ Camargo/Authentik Movement Training
01:51 22 Oct 20
I've had the pleasure of getting to know Tim personally over the past 2 years. Beyond him being an incredible lawyer &... 'Jack of all trades ' he is an amazing friend. One thing I love most is that he is family oriented & always making quality time for his loved ones. He inspires me to be a great role model &father figure one day. Tim loves nature & shares the true beauty of nature with how he raises his kids. From biking through trails & having his kids learn how to nurture the family garden - he teaches valuable lessons on how to appreciate the world we live in. I know that Tim is just a phone call away & always urgent to responding no matter the situation. He has given me some of the greatest advice & continously throwing positive energy my way! I'm honored to know him & be a friend of his. He is the true practioneer of changing lives & paying it forward. He has taught me so much in just a short amount of time. Tim Misny, a man that wakes up every single day to make a difference!read more
Scott Plate
Scott Plate
16:49 10 Oct 20
Tim has created a highly visible and effective law practice, and despite his decades of experience, he has never once... forgotten why he got into this business in the first place: to help people. He puts his whole heart into his work, and he works hard for everyone he represents. He has a gift for tuning out the noise and tuning into the core of what his clients need, and making it clear he has heard them. As a result, we feel empowered. He is smart, resourceful, creative, positive, and solution-oriented. His abundant energy makes people feel better, stronger, and valued. He loves and promotes his community; he gives back generously, and he always leaves everything better than he found it. Tim is a true man of action, and a man of his word. Could not recommend him more highly.read more
Mike M
Mike M
04:44 09 Oct 20
As a young man, I worked at a local garden center. I came from a family that had too many problems to list. I felt I... was never destined to be anything good. I had always wanted to be a police officer since I was a little boy. But, one side of my family told me that I would never be good enough to do it. Anytime I brought it up, they knocked me down until I started to believe that I could never accomplish my dream. One day, about 20 years ago, while working at that garden center, a very tall man came in and asked me to help him select plants. As we walked around the garden center, he struck up a conversation with me. He was very friendly and kind. I was a skinny teenager in dirty blue jeans and a t shirt. This man was dressed very nicely and I was surprised at how nice he was to me. During our conversation, he asked me what I wanted to do with my life after school. I told him that I wanted to be a police officer but many people told me that I’d never make it. I told him how my very own father said I wasn’t smart enough, brave enough, and I was wasting my time. I remember looking at the ground while I explained this to him. The man stopped and got serious. His voice dropped an octave and he looked me dead in the eyes. He pointed his finger at me and told me that I could make anything of my life that I wanted. He told me that it was up to ME to make my life goals come true. He told me to ignore anybody who tells me otherwise. He assured me that if I studied hard in school and never gave up on my dreams that they would become a reality. He told me to say it. I said “I can do it”. In that moment, I thought that if a complete stranger saw something in me, than maybe it could be true.After I helped him through the checkout and he left, many different employees at the garden center asked me if I knew who that man was. I did not. They told me, “That’s Tim Misny!” Once I figured out “who” Tim Misny was, my confidence grew. It was a pivotal moment. One in which steered the rest of my life. His words stuck with me. I worked hard and obtained my Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice. I was hired by a local Law Enforcement Agency at the age of 21. I was sent to the Ohio State Highway Patrol Academy, which was an extremely tough place to be, to say the least. At the Academy, they try to break those who don’t have a determined spirit. On days I wanted to quit, I remembered Tim’s words. Maybe it was fate, maybe it was random chance.... I’ll never know But, Tim Misny helped me have the confidence and determination that was necessary to be where I’m at today. I’ve been a law enforcement officer for over 16 years. I’ve told this story to many of my coworkers.Tim, you’ll never understand how your words that spring day helped shape my future. Your words enabled me to provide a great life for myself and my family. I’m forever grateful.Mikeread more
Eric Evans
Eric Evans
21:02 04 Oct 20
Tim has represented me twice, once 30 years ago and again just recently. I was too young to fully appreciate his... expertise when he represented me the first time (as i was a minor who was the victim of an accident - he won for us, incidentally), but I'm old enough and wise enough now to really appreciate how truly great he is. First off, how many attorney's actually give you their cell phone number and actually answer? I would contend very, very few. Secondly, he has a street fighter mentality combined with a sharp legal intellect which makes you immediately think "I'm so glad this guy is on my side." I was really in a bind recently and Tim came through in spades - he is THE person I would call if I were in trouble or needed help - at a minimum he would know who I should talk to and direct me there (he knows his own limits, which is the key to a wise person) - at a maximum he would take on my fight himself and I'd have full confidence in his ability to deliver the best possible outcome for me - he fights for you like you're family - can't say it better than that.read more
Benjamin Firstenberg
Benjamin Firstenberg
19:32 28 Sep 20
I worked as an intern for Tim the summer of 2017 and it was an unbelievable experience both for my career and personal... development. He treats his employees with a level of respect, appreciation and honesty that I've truly not seen anywhere else that I've worked. We've stayed in touch these past few years and I'm still learning from Tim, whether it be the way he sees the world, his career advice or his commitment to his family. He's an honest man who treats people honorably.read more
David Shelton
David Shelton
01:13 30 Jun 20
I don't know much about Tim the lawyer, but I do know about Tim the man. Tim the man befriended me as a youth and gave... me the motivation to excel in school. Tim the man wrote the letter that got me into college and got me a helpful scholarship. Tim the man gave me an internship while in college. Tim the man has been a friend to me for over ten years. He makes himself available day or night whether I need advice or just want to talk about the day. There a lot of stigmas about attorneys (and they are earned) but Tim Misny bucks the stereotype. And if Tim the lawyer is half a good as Tim the man, he will live up to his word, and make them pay.read more
Mike Mercer
Mike Mercer
00:16 17 Jan 20
WOW! It is the only way to describe the tremendous experience I was afforded, when I contacted and then retained Tim... Misny, to handle a case for me. I had been injured in an automobile accident and needed help and direction, Tim and his staff provided both.The personal attention and clarity of the matter and specifics, gave me a state of comfort and satisfaction that I could have found nowhere else! I will be forever grateful to have Tim Misny as my attorney and my friend!I am a businessman in the Greater Cleveland area and have directed various members of my staffs as well as personal friends to Tim for solutions to their personal injury case needs. All my referrals have been more than pleased with the service and personal treatment they have received from Tim and his staff.I strongly recommend Tim Misny and his associates should you ever need the finest legal services available in Ohio! Trust is his number one priority, trust in knowing that you will be his client second, his friend first!read more
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The Law Offices of Tim Misny

Cleveland Office
3100 E. 45th St.
Suite 444
Cleveland OH 44127
Mailing Address:
Interstate Square I
4230 Chillicothe Rd. Ste 200
Willoughby, Ohio 44094

Disclaimer: All lawsuits are different and the Law Offices of Tim Misny make no representation or promise that it can obtain the same results in other legal matters. Nothing in this webpage constitutes a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of any future legal matter.