Fighting for Victims of Dog Attacks
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite attack, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. We are dedicated to protecting the rights of Illinois residents who have suffered injuries due to a dog bite or attack. Our experienced personal injury attorneys understand the emotional, physical, and financial toll these incidents can take on victims and their families, and we are here to help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Us?
- Proven Track Record: With years of experience handling dog bite cases in Illinois, we have successfully secured settlements and verdicts for many clients who have been injured by dangerous dogs.
- Personalized Attention: We treat each case with the attention it deserves. We will work closely with you to understand your needs, guide you through the legal process, and fight for your rights every step of the way.
- No Fees Unless We Win: We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we secure a settlement or verdict in your favor. Our priority is your recovery, both physically and financially.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bites can result in a wide range of injuries, including but not limited to:
- Lacerations & Puncture Wounds: Dog bites can tear skin, muscles, and nerves, leading to painful and sometimes permanent scars.
- Infections: Dog bites can introduce harmful bacteria into the body, leading to infections that may require extensive medical treatment.
- Broken Bones: A dog’s bite or forceful attack can cause broken bones, fractures, or dislocations, requiring long-term care and rehabilitation.
- Psychological Trauma: Victims, especially children, may experience PTSD, anxiety, or fear of dogs following an attack.
- Disfigurement & Scarring: In some cases, dog bite injuries can cause significant disfigurement, leading to emotional distress and long-term cosmetic damage.
Illinois Dog Bite Laws
Under Illinois law, dog owners are generally held liable for injuries caused by their dogs if the dog was known to be dangerous or had previously shown aggressive behavior. In other cases, even if the dog had no history of aggression, the owner may still be held responsible depending on the circumstances of the attack.
Illinois follows a “strict liability” rule when it comes to dog bite cases. This means that a dog owner may be held accountable for the actions of their dog even if they were not negligent or knew the dog was dangerous. However, there are certain defenses that a dog owner might use, which is why having an experienced attorney is crucial in pursuing your case.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite
If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog, it’s important to act quickly:
- Seek Medical Attention: Get medical help right away, even if the injury seems minor. Dog bites can lead to infections or other complications.
- Document the Incident: Take photos of the injuries and the scene of the attack. If possible, get contact information for any witnesses who saw the incident.
- Report the Incident: Report the dog bite to local animal control or the police, especially if the dog is unvaccinated or appears to be a danger to others.
- Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer: Reach out to an experienced dog bite attorney as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected and that you don’t miss important deadlines.
How We Can Help
When you hire us to represent you, our team will:
- Investigate the Incident: We will gather evidence to determine the cause of the attack, including identifying the dog’s owner, obtaining any prior history of aggression, and interviewing witnesses.
- Work with Medical Experts: We’ll collaborate with medical professionals to assess the full extent of your injuries and ensure you receive the treatment you need.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies: We handle all communications with insurance companies and fight to get you the maximum compensation available for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- Litigate When Necessary: If the dog owner’s insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we are prepared to take your case to court and fight for your rights in front of a judge and jury.
Compensation for Dog Bite Injuries
Victims of dog bites can recover a variety of damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: All costs related to treating your injuries, including emergency care, surgeries, follow-up visits, and rehabilitation.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain, emotional distress, and long-term psychological effects caused by the attack.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for the income you’ve lost as a result.
- Disfigurement & Scarring: If your injuries result in permanent scars or disfigurement, you may be entitled to additional compensation for the impact on your quality of life.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme negligence or intentional harm, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the defendant and deter future misconduct.
Contact Our Illinois Dog Bite Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite injury in Illinois, you need a dedicated attorney on your side. We have the experience and resources to fight for the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait to seek legal representation—call us today for a free consultation. Let us help you navigate the legal process, protect your rights, and get you the justice you deserve.