Lawyers for Dog Bite Injuries
Lawyers for Dog Bite Injuries
For many people, dogs are much more than beloved pets. They are part of the family. And, much like people, their actions can be unpredictable.
Each year, more than 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs in the United States alone, with more than 800,000 of those cases requiring medical attention, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. In addition to physical injuries, many victims of dog bites, especially children, may also suffer immense emotional trauma and go on to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
We understand the hesitation many have about filing a claim against a friend or neighbor in such cases, but rest assured that most attacks are covered by renters and homeowners insurance policies. It is your right to receive full compensation for any and all physical and emotional damage, as well as potential lost wages.
Don’t delay in getting the compensation you deserve. Contact a dog bite lawyer right away to begin the legal process.
Retain a Dog Bite Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been attacked by a dog, be sure to get legal representation before speaking with an insurance company on settlement options. You need someone on your side to help you understand all of your options and potential compensation claims.
Call (312) 588-9773 or visit our contact page to discuss your legal options and schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. We represent clients on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay nothing unless you win.
Overview of Dog Bite Attorneys
Illinois Dog Bite Laws
What to Do After a Dog Bite
FAQs
Find the Best Dog Bite Lawyer
Illinois Dog Bite Laws
Illinois is a strict liability dog bite state, meaning a dog’s owner is liable for the full amount of a dog bite victim’s injuries if their dog attacks, attempts to attack, or injures any person who is peacefully conducting themselves in a place they have a lawful right to be. (Animal Control Act, 510 Illinois Compiled Statute 5/16)
Many local communities also have ordinances in place requiring owners of certain dog breeds, including Pit Bulls and Rottweilers, to comply with additional regulations.
What Counts as a Dangerous Dog?
The Illinois Animal Control Act provides the following definitions for dangerous, viscous, or potentially dangerous dogs:
Dangerous Dog
510 Illinois Compiled Statute 5/2.05a
“Any individual dog anywhere other than upon the property of the owner or custodian of the dog and unmuzzled, unleashed, or unattended by its owner or custodian that behaves in a manner that a reasonable person would believe poses a serious and unjustified imminent threat of serious physical injury or death to a person or a companion animal or a dog that, without justification, bites a person and does not cause serious physical injury.”
Vicious Dog
510 Illinois Compiled Statute 5/2.19b
“A dog that, without justification, attacks a person and causes serious physical injury or death or any individual dog that has been found to be a ‘dangerous dog’ upon three separate occasions.”
Potentially Dangerous Dog
510 Illinois Compiled Statute 5/2.17c
“A dog that is unsupervised and found running at large with three or more other dogs.”
Illinois Leash Laws
The State of Illinois does not have a comprehensive statewide law regarding the leashing of dogs, although individual municipalities often require the owner of the dog to keep his or her pet leashed in public places.
Illinois One-Bite Rule
One-bite rules are laws that allow dog owners to avoid liability in dog bite cases if their dog has no documented history of bites, aggressive behavior, or violence.
Illinois does not have a one-bite rule. Owners are still responsible for damages caused by their dogs, even if the dogs have no prior bite history.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
If a dog has bitten you or your loved one, the following steps can help protect your legal rights and ensure that you will be able to recover damages for your injuries:
1. Obtain the dog owner’s contact information
It is imperative to get this information immediately, especially if you do not personally know the owner or dog responsible for the attack.
2. Get contact information from any witnesses
Any statement from witnesses will strengthen your case against the dog’s owner. Be sure to get witnesses’ full names and phone numbers, at a minimum. Your personal injury attorney will handle getting any statements from witnesses at a later date.
3. Call 911
File a detailed report of the incident, including date and time of incident, what you were doing at the time, and any memorable details of the dog and owner leading up to the attack. It’s easy to forget these details as time goes on. Documenting them early will ensure a stronger case.
4. Take photos
Capture photos of both your injuries and the location where the attack occurred. If the dog is still in the area, be sure to capture a photo of the animal as well.
5. Seek medical attention
Whether or not the bite seems significant to you, it is important to get an expert opinion and proper medical care. Even bites that do not seem serious should be reviewed by a medical professional as canines can carry many serious diseases.
6. Contact a dog bite attorney
While many dog bite cases are settled out of court, it’s imperative for victims to have legal counsel capable of negotiating with insurance companies for the most favorable possible settlement. You’ll want to ensure that your settlement covers all medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and non-economic damages including pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
Dog Bite Lawyer FAQs
What is the statute of limitations for filing a dog bite claim?
In the State of Illinois, dog bite claims fall under the umbrella of personal injury cases, which require a case to be filed within two years. However, the reporting window can vary by insurance company, making it especially important to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. (735 Illinois Compiled Statutes section 5/13-202)
How do I know if I have a dog bite case?
If you have been bitten by a dog in the State of Illinois, you are entitled to compensation for your medical care, and may also be eligible for additional compensation for lost wages, property damage, pain, suffering, and other emotional damage.
Call (312) 588-9773 or visit our contact page to schedule a free consultation with Susan E. Loggans & Associates. We represent clients on a contingency fee basis, meaning you’ll pay nothing unless we secure a monetary award on your behalf.
How much compensation could I receive in a dog bite claim?
In 2021, State Farm Insurance received 290 dog bite claims totaling $16.6 million, for an average payout of $57,241.
As cases vary by severity of injury, wages lost, and other factors, it is best to speak with a personal injury lawyer to determine what you may be eligible to receive in compensation.
What are common dog bite injuries?
Serious injuries sustained after a dog bite attack include:
- Brain injury
- Broken bones
- Disfigurement
- Lacerations
- Nerve damage
- Puncture wounds
In addition to physical injuries, animal attacks can also leave a lasting psychological impact on victims.
Find the Best Dog Bite Lawyer with Susan E. Loggans & Associates
Susan E. Loggans & Associates has a strong reputation for negotiating fair payouts for victims of dog bites. We are sensitive to the fact that dog attack victims often have a relationship with the dog’s owner. Whether they are a friend, family member, or neighbor, we take care to keep your relationships intact while working fiercely with insurance companies on your behalf. It is your right to receive full compensation for any and all physical and emotional damage, as well as potential lost wages.
If you or a loved one have been attacked by a dog, contact our law firm immediately to discuss your lawful rights to compensation. Call (312) 588-9773 or visit our contact page to speak with our experts in dog bite claims, who will provide a free case evaluation.