Dogs are loyal, intelligent, and affectionately known as man’s best friend. But even if a dog seems friendly or has never shown aggression, it doesn’t mean it’s incapable of being aggressive. Along with their loyalty, dogs can also be protective and unpredictable, and tragically, when irresponsible owners neglect or improperly train their dogs, these animals can become aggressive and dangerous.
Victims of dog bites and other animal attacks can suffer serious injuries, such as puncture wounds, scars, infections, and broken bones.
In Illinois, those who have been seriously injured by animal attacks are protected under state law. To protect your rights and seek justice for your injuries, it is crucial to contact a skilled dog bite attorney, such as one of the skilled attorneys at Spiros Law.
Understanding Strict Liability for Dog Bites in Illinois
Illinois operates on strict liability, which means the owner is responsible for any injuries their dog inflicts on another person or animal and can be held accountable for damages. Unlike some states, Illinois does not enforce the “one-bite” rule – the dog owner is liable for damages regardless of the dog’s prior history.
This approach prioritizes the residents’ safety and encourages responsible pet ownership.
Illinois dog bite laws don’t require proof of negligence, so in the event you are bitten, you’ll only need to prove:
- The dog that attacked or attempted to attack you
- You were acting lawfully at the time of the incident
- You did not provoke the dog
Common Defenses in Illinois Dog Bite Claims
In dog bite claims, dog owners or their insurance companies often challenge the circumstances surrounding why their dog attacked and may raise several common defenses, including:
- Provocation: If the injured person provoked the dog, such as by taunting it, the dog owner may argue that the dog was acting in self-defense.
- Trespassing: If the injured person was on private property without permission, this could limit the owner’s liability.
- Assumption of risk: In some cases, the defendant may argue that the injured person was warned to avoid interaction with the animal prior to the incident and assumed the risk of being bitten by engaging with the dog.
What Dog Bite Victims Should Do After an Incident
If a dog has bitten you or you have suffered from any kind of animal bite, taking action immediately is crucial to both your health and your legal rights. If you’ve been seriously injured, follow these steps:
- Seek medical attention: Even minor dog bites can lead to infections, rabies, and severe trauma. Seek medical care immediately to assess and treat your injuries. Prompt treatment can help your claim by creating a medical record of the injury.
- Report the incident: Alert local law enforcement or animal control so an official report can be created to document your injuries.
- Document your injuries: Take photographs of your injuries and the scene of the attack if possible. Keep records of any medical treatments, bills, and prescriptions related to your injury.
- Collect witness information: If there were any witnesses to the attack, gather their contact information. These testimonies could help substantiate your claim.
- Consult with a personal injury lawyer: Dog bite cases can be complex, so having a qualified personal injury attorney to guide you through the legal process is essential for seeking justice.
Protecting Your Rights After a Dog Bite: The Role of an Attorney
When you’ve endured a serious injury like a dog bite, you deserve skilled legal guidance to help you through this complex process so you can focus on recovery. A trusted dog bite lawyer has the legal knowledge to handle your claim, communicate directly with the insurance company, and fight for the justice you deserve, which often comes in the form of financial compensation.
Your attorney will guide you through the damages you may be entitled to, which can include lost wages and medical expenses.
For example, if you suffered permanent nerve damage from a dog bite that resulted in time off work, you could seek damages for lost wages. The individual details of your case will determine which damages you may recover.
Spiros Law: Protecting Dog Bite Victims Across Illinois
If you’ve been injured by a dog or another animal attack in Illinois, our personal injury attorneys at Spiros Law are here for you. Our local legal knowledge means we understand how to navigate the legal complexities of your case and the nuances of Illinois law.
Our attorneys will stand by your side to make sure your voice is heard, your medical and emotional injuries are covered, and you receive the justice you deserve. Don’t face your serious injury alone – your recovery starts with a dedicated team ready to advocate for your rights.
