No one wants to be the victim of a dog bite, but unfortunately it can happen to anyone at any time. If you are injured or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, a Schaumburg dog bite lawyer from our law firm, The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers can provide legal representation to determine if you are entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages.
What Are Illinois Dog Bite Laws?
Under the Illinois Animal Control Act (510 ILCS 5/16), dog owners are liable for all damages when their dog, without provocation, attacks or injures another person who is lawfully on the property.
How Serious Is the Problem?
The American Veterinary Medical Association reports, “More than 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year in the United States, and more than 800,000 receive medical attention for dog bites, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.”
At least half of the time, the injured person is a child.
What to Do if You Have Been Bitten by a Dog
The first and most important thing an injured party should do if you have suffered an animal attack is to seek medical attention. Even if the wound seems minor, it is important to have it properly cleaned and treated to avoid any potential infections.
After seeking medical care, it is important to gather as much information as possible about the incident. This includes identifying the dog and its owner, documenting your injuries with photos, and getting contact information from any witnesses.
Common Injuries Suffered in a Dog Attack
Common injuries suffered by dogs or in dog attacks include:
- Puncture Wounds
- Lacerations and Cuts
- Broken Bones
- Nerve Damage
- Rabies Infection
- Psychological Trauma
How a Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help in Dog Bite Claims
While you may be hesitant to take legal action after a dog bite, it is important to understand your rights and the potential consequences of not seeking compensation.
A skilled lawyer will be able to gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, file, and fight for your rights to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.
What Compensation Can Dog Bite Attorneys Help You Receive?
In Schaumburg, IL, victims with dog bite cases may be entitled to: medical bills and expenses, lost wages due to missed work, physical and emotional pain and suffering, and any future rehabilitation or therapy needed.
In some cases, punitive damages may also be available if the dog owner acted with reckless disregard for others’ safety. This type of compensation is meant to punish owners of dangerous dogs and deter them from similar actions in the future.
How Much Is My Case Worth?
The value of a dog bite case can vary greatly depending on the specific circumstances of personal injury cases. Factors that may influence the value of your case include:
The severity of injuries sustained; past, current, and future medical expenses; lost wages; emotional distress—pain and suffering—and the degree of negligence on the part of the dog’s owner.
Call The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers Today
At The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers, we have a track record of success in helping dog bite victims receive the compensation they deserve.
We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us unless we win your case. Don’t wait – contact us today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step towards receiving justice for your dog or other animal bites.