Dog bites happen far more often than most people realize. About 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs across the country every year, and children are often the ones who get hurt the most. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a dog bite incident in Elgin or across Illinois, it is important to seek legal representation from an Elgin dog bite lawyer at our personal injury law firm today.
In this Article
What Are Illinois Dog Bite Laws?
Under Illinois law (510 ILCS 5/16), also known as the Illinois Animal Control Act, the owner of a dog that attacks, attempts to attack, or injures another person without provocation has strict liability for any emotional, financial, or physical injury suffered, regardless of whether the animal has a prior history of aggression or a formal “dangerous dog” designation.
However, liability exemptions for dog owners exist if the dog bite victim trespassed, provoked the animal, or if the animal involved was a working police dog.
What Compensation Can an Injured Person Receive?
If you’ve been bitten by someone else’s dog, the injuries can be severe and lead to expensive medical bills. A successful dog bite injury claim can help you recover compensation for medical treatment, including reconstructive surgery, as well as lost wages. You may also be compensated for emotional and physical pain and suffering, psychological trauma, and property damage.
How Much Is My Case Worth?
The value of a dog bite case can vary greatly depending on the severity of your injuries, your medical costs (including future medical expenses), and the liability insurance coverage of the dog’s owner.
How Can a Dog Bite Lawyer Help You?
A personal injury lawyer can provide valuable legal assistance with your dog bite claim:
- Gathering evidence, such as medical records and witness testimonies, to build a strong case to hold a negligent dog owner legally responsible
- Negotiating for fair compensation with the insurance company
- Representing you in court with a personal injury lawsuit if we are not able to recover compensation through negotiations with the dog owner responsible
- Providing guidance and support throughout the legal process, helping you understand your rights and options
What to Do After an Animal Attack
If you or a family member has suffered serious injuries in an animal attack:
- The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that injury victims wash minor wounds with soap and water. For deeper wounds, seek immediate medical attention.
- Document the incident by taking photos of your injuries and any damage caused by the animal.
- Gather information from witnesses, such as names and contact information.
- Report the attack to local authorities, including animal control and/or law enforcement.
- Consult with a dog bite lawyer to understand your options for seeking compensation.
Common Injuries Suffered in a Dog Attack in Elgin, IL
Dog attacks can result in a wide range of injuries for many dog bite victims. Some severe injuries include:
- Deep puncture wounds, particularly children’s arm injuries
- Lacerations and abrasions
- Nerve damage
- Broken bones
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Emotional trauma like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Are There Time Limits for Filing a Dog Bite Lawsuit?
In Illinois, the statute of limitations (735 ILCS 5/) for filing personal injury cases, including for dog bite injuries, is typically two years from the date of the incident. This means that if you do not file your personal injury claim within this time frame, you may lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries.
Call Our Personal Injury Law Firm Today
Are you the injured party in an Illinois dog bite case? Our dog bite attorneys are here to help protect your legal rights. We offer a free consultation to review your case and work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing unless we win.
(312) 223-1700