If you or a loved one have been victimized by a dog bite in the Chicago area, it's important to seek legal advice and representation from an experienced Chicago dog bite lawyer. Dog bites can be painful and traumatic, and victims may be entitled to compensation for their physical and emotional damages. An experienced Chicago law firm personal injury lawyer can help victims navigate the complicated bite lawsuit legal system to obtain the civil damages they deserve.
Dog bites have the potential to cause both physical and psychological harm to victims. Severe injuries may include broken bones, nerve damage, deep lacerations, disfigurement, infection, and in severe cases, even death. In addition to the physical consequences of a dog bite, the injured person may experience fear, anxiety, depression, flashbacks, nightmares, and other emotional distress. The medical care bills for reconstructive surgery resulting from bite wounds, permanent scarring, and physical injuries can be overwhelming.
When looking for a Chicago dog bite injury lawyer, choose one with experience handling bite injury claims. A knowledgeable personal injury claims lawyer can assess your case and provide legal advice. They should be familiar with the animal, and premises liability insurance, personal injury, and insurance laws.
When considering legal assistance, choose a personal injury law firm with dog attack attorneys that have a record of success such as Ktenas Injury Attorneys. Call today at 312-300-2515 and get your case started with a 100% FREE consultation!
The Illinois Animal Control Act
Dog bite laws in Chicago, Illinois have undergone dramatic changes since the 1990s. The one-free bite rule, which previously excused owners from liability if they were unaware of their animal's biting tendencies, no longer exists. The Illinois Animal Control Act has superseded this to instead create a strict general liability rule. If an animal attacks or injures any person without provocation while that person is lawfully present, then the owner is liable for damages incurred because of that injury.
It is not enough for every pet owner just to practice good safety habits and leash their animal when in public places and on public property. Animal owners must also understand their legal responsibilities in case it does happen nonetheless.
Because no one can predict all animal behavior with certainty, dog owners should investigate and analyze potential risks associated with owning a dog as well as having enough resources for possible future medical bills or other liabilities. This way, at least some of the punitive damages can be avoided or lessened if necessary.
What are the Recommended Steps for Someone Who Has Been Bitten By a Dog?
Under the Illinois Animal Control Act, owners of domestic animals such as dogs are no longer given the “one free bite” grace. This means that pet owners must be aware and liable for their animal’s behavior from the onset even on private property, and no longer have an excuse if their pet did not cause any prior incidents to suggest that it would harm others in a harmful way.
Under recent Chicago law bite statutes, if an animal without any provocation attacks or injures anyone who is conducting themselves lawfully, then its owner is expected to pay in full amount for bite settlement damages caused. This amount can include medical bills, hospital visits, and rehabilitation costs for psychological damage incurred due to the attack.
The law also mentions that negligent dog owners could be potentially liable even if they had no prior knowledge about the animal's behavior or temperament. As such it is important that people understand how dog bite law works to ensure not only their safety but also so they don't become responsible for compensating dog bite attack victims.
Strict Liability that Applies to Dog Attacks
One of the most important laws for dog owners in the State of Illinois is the strict liability statute which holds pet owners liable for injuries caused by their pets in a dog bite attack. Under this law, a victim of a dog bite incident can seek compensation from the responsible dog owner regardless of whether or not they were negligent. This means that if you were attacked by someone’s pet, even if the owner took all possible precautions to prevent the attack, you can still receive compensation for the damages.
For a dog bite victim to receive compensation, they must prove that their injuries were caused by a dog bite and that the responsible party was the owner or property owner of said dog.
A knowledgeable dog law attorney can help victims in this situation by providing legal assistance and advice on how to go about seeking justice in the form of just compensation. Experienced attorneys can also help victims negotiate a fair settlement for economic and non-economic damages with insurance companies or litigate on their behalf in court, if necessary.
Filing a Lawsuit Related to a Dog Bite Incident in Illinois?
In Illinois, dog owners are strictly liable for any injuries caused by their pets. This means that if a dog bites someone and causes an injury, the owner could be held responsible regardless of whether they were aware of the animal’s propensity to bite or not.
While there is no set amount of damage or severity required for a person to sue a pet owner, the more serious the injury victims' bite fatalities, the more likely it is that a person can receive compensation. Examples of animal bites requiring medical attention include but are not limited to, puncture wounds, bite infections, and lacerations. In some cases, psychological damage such as mental anguish can also be included in a lawsuit.
FAQ: How much does a personal injury lawyer cost in Illinois?
In addition to physical harm, many dog bite victims are left with emotional distress. This can include fear of dogs, anxiety, and depression. It is also important to note that the owner’s negligence can be a factor in these psychological damages, so victims need to seek legal representation from an experienced attorney.
The financial aftermath of a dog bite can be significant and the injured party needs to know their rights and legal options. To ensure that your rights are protected, contact a Chicago dog bite lawyer today for a free initial consultation.
What is the Statute of Limitations for a Dog Bite Lawsuit?
The statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits resulting from dog bites in Illinois is two years, with some exceptions for cases involving minors. Victims must take prompt action to pursue compensation for their injuries.
The statute of limitations for a dog bite claim does not begin running against children under the age of 18 until they reach their 18th birthday. This gives them ample time to file their injury lawsuit before they turn 20, however, parents don't need to wait until then to take legal action - guardians can file personal injury lawsuits on behalf of their minor children in Illinois regardless of age.
In the event of a child being injured by a dog bite, taking timely action is important to preserve evidence and seek appropriate compensation. Consulting with a qualified attorney can help victims understand their legal options and the statute of limitations.
Typical Injuries Resulting From Dog Bites
Dog bites can cause a wide variety of injuries, depending on the size and type of dog involved. The most common types of dog bite injuries include:
- Lacerations and Puncture Wounds – The most common type of dog bite injury is a laceration or puncture wound. These open wounds may range from minor scrapes to deep gashes that require stitches or even surgery.
- Bruising and Contusions – Dogs can also cause bruises or contusions when they bite. These types of injuries can range from small purple marks to large, deep bruises that may require medical attention.
- Infections – Dog bites can become infected if bacteria enter the wound through a scratch or an open sore. Symptoms of infection may include redness, swelling, and pain in the affected area. If a dog bite becomes infected, it is recommended that medical attention be sought promptly.
- Scarring and Disfigurement – Dog bites can leave behind lasting scars and disfigurement. These types of injuries can cause both physical and emotional pain that will require ongoing care and treatment.
If you have been the victim of a dog bite in Illinois, it is important to speak with an experienced dog bite lawyer who can help you through the legal process and ensure that you receive just compensation for your injuries.
Legal Recourse for Injuries Caused By Dog Bites
Unfortunately, dog bites are altogether too common and often result in serious injuries to victims. Thankfully, those who have been bitten by a dog may be able to seek compensation for their damages, including medical expenses, lost income, diminished earning capacity, and pain and suffering.
In some cases, the negligent actions of a third party may have caused injury-related losses – such as not properly delivering warning signs about the presence of a dangerous animal -- thus potentially entitling victims to hold this third party liable as well.
To successfully pursue legal claims against the responsible parties for these damages after a bite incident, victims must understand all available options and exhaust the applicable remedies by state laws. This might include hiring a personal injury lawyer to file a lawsuit against both the owner of the dog and any other negligent parties if necessary.
Meanwhile, victims should also document all relevant information related to their incident as well as any evidence about their losses. This includes collecting medical records or reports from doctors related to bites or attending physician visits when necessary. Ultimately, doing so can help affected individuals obtain just compensation for all harm endured from a dangerous animal’s attack.
Why Consider Working With Our Dog Bite Attorneys?
When it comes to dog bite incidents, Ktenas Injury Attorneys can provide the legal expertise and resources needed to ensure that victims receive the compensation they deserve. Dog bites can cause serious physical and psychological trauma, leaving victims with significant medical bills and other expenses.
Ktenas Injury Attorneys have experience with dog bite cases and can pursue full financial compensation for victims. Dog bites can result in serious injuries and long-term disabilities, requiring extensive medical care and financial recovery can take a long time. We evaluate potential losses and negotiate with insurance companies to create a winning legal strategy.
At Ktenas Injury Attorneys we understand the challenges faced by victims and their families and provide compassionate support throughout the legal process. If bitten by a dog in Chicago, it is advised to seek legal assistance from a qualified lawyer. Ktnenas Injury Attorneys offer complimentary consultations and legal advice. For more information, please contact them.
