Dog Bite Injury Lawyers
Under Ontario’s Dog Owners’ Liability Act, a dog owner is strictly liable for injuries their dog causes, regardless of whether the dog has bitten anyone before. Dog bites can leave lasting physical and psychological scars, and there is a relatively small window of time to pursue legal recourse. Cohen Highley LLP’s Personal Injury Team represents dog bite injury victims across London, Kitchener, Windsor, Strathroy, and Sarnia, pursuing compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.
We investigate the circumstances of the situation, gather medical documentation, and deal directly with the dog owner’s insurer, so you aren’t left negotiating on your own while you recover. At Cohen Highley LLP, we work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay no legal fees unless your case results in a recovery, and we offer a free initial consultation to review your claim.
Dog Bite Injury Services We Offer
Our Personal Injury Team supports dog bite victims through every stage of a claim, from the first phone call to final resolution. Our dog bite injury services include:
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Investigation of the incident, including identifying the dog owner and any applicable insurance coverage.
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Claims brought under Ontario’s Dog Owners’ Liability Act for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.
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Negotiation with the dog owner’s insurer on your behalf.
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Litigation support if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
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Connections to medical, rehabilitation, and accessibility support resources during your recovery.
Our Approach to Dog Bite Injury Cases
We begin with a free consultation to understand what happened, assess whether the Dog Owners’ Liability Act applies to your situation, and identify who may be responsible. From there, our team gathers medical records, incident details, and any information needed to establish the dog owner’s insurance coverage, building a clear picture of your losses and their cause.
Once your claim is documented, we take it to the dog owner’s insurer to pursue a fair settlement on your behalf. If a reasonable resolution can’t be reached through negotiation, we’re prepared to move your case forward through litigation. Throughout the process, our goal is to let you focus on your recovery while we manage the legal and insurance side of your claim.
Why Choose Cohen Highley LLP
Cohen Highley LLP’s Personal Injury Team has extensive experience handling dog bite and animal attack claims under Ontario’s Dog Owners’ Liability Act, including cases involving strict liability, insurance negotiations, and disputed defenses such as provocation or trespass. Our team serves clients across London, Kitchener, Windsor, Strathroy, and Sarnia, giving you access to in-person support close to home.
We’re committed to meeting the needs of every client while acting fairly, firmly, and with integrity. If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite, reach out to our Personal Injury Team today for a free consultation to discuss your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is liable if I'm bitten by a dog in Ontario?
Under Ontario’s Dog Owners’ Liability Act, the dog’s owner is strictly liable for injuries caused by their dog, even if it has never bitten anyone before and even if the owner wasn’t negligent. This applies whether the incident happened on public or private property.
Limited exceptions, such as provocation or trespassing, may reduce or eliminate a claim.
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Ontario?
Dog bite claims are subject to Ontario’s standard limitation periods, and waiting can affect your ability to bring a claim. Evidence and witness recollections fade over time, so it’s best to speak with a member of our Personal Injury Team as soon as possible after the incident. We offer a free consultation to review your specific timeline.
What compensation can I recover for a dog bite injury?
Depending on the severity of the injury, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost income, and pain and suffering. The amount depends on the specific facts and impact of your case. Our Personal Injury Team can review your situation and outline what may apply.
How much does it cost to hire a dog bite personal injury lawyer?
Our Personal Injury Team works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay legal fees unless your case results in a settlement or award. When we do charge a contingency fee, it is no more than 30 percent of your settlement or award for damages and costs. Your initial consultation is always free.
Our legal team is accessible, innovative, and professional.
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