Buffalo Grove
At Dog Bite Laws we offer a comprehensive range of legal services for dog bite claims. Our Buffalo Grove dog bite attorney is committed to providing the support and expertise required to navigate dog bite cases successfully.
As the most beloved pet in the United States, dogs are present in over 60 million homes across the country. This figure is nearly double the number of households that own cats. While dogs are adorable pets, they can also be dangerous. An animal attack, such as a dog bite, can result in serious injuries, some of which may have a life-altering impact. Knowing what to do after such a traumatic incident can help you be more prepared to protect your rights.
Dog Bite Laws in Illinois
The state of Illinois has specific laws governing dog bite cases in illinois. One of the key laws is the strict liability law which states that under the Illinois Animal Control Act, the dog owner is liable for injuries to victims regardless of the dog’s history of aggression or the owner’s knowledge of their dog’s violent or aggressive tendencies. This law means that dog bite victims have less burden of proof when establishing liability.
While a dog bite victim may have less burden of proof, they still have to prove that the bite did not happen due to provocation or trespassing. For example, if the victim aggravated the dog and that resulted in the dog attack, then the liability of the dog owner is reduced. Similarly, if the victim was trespassing when the dog bite incident happened, then the liability of the dog owner is lessened.
If both parties are partially at fault for the accident, then Illinois’s comparative fault rule is used to determine the percentage of liability. Under this rule, a victim is only able to recover compensation if they are less than 50% at fault for the accident. Also, the amount of compensation they recover is adjusted according to their share of fault for the accident. Dog bite cases with partial liability can often get complex, so you should consult with an experienced dog bite attorney to help you understand the laws that support your case, and establish liability for the dog bite incident.
The statute of limitations for dog bite cases in Illinois is two years from the date of the incident. You must initiate action within this timeframe, otherwise, you may lose your rights to recover compensation.
Dog Bite Preventative Measures and Awareness
The key to preventing dog bites is to understand dog behavior. Dogs are not predatory animals, and would not typically look to attack humans. However, if the dog feels threatened it may respond aggressively or fearfully. In some cases, a dog can be suffering from physical or mental issues which might make them more aggressive.
A dog may exhibit warning signs before biting, such as barking or growling. If you notice such signs, you need to be extra careful, and back away from the dog. It’s worth noting that dogs can be protective of their food, and mothers can be particularly protective of their puppies.
Children are at an increased risk of dog bites. Not only are they smaller making them an easier target for the dog, they also have a greater tendency to aggravate the dog. Additionally, children may not recognize the warning signs of an agitated dog, increasing the likelihood of an incident. Parents are advised to supervise their children when they are around dogs, especially if the dog is unfamiliar to the child.
The dog owner carries the primary response of preventing their dog from causing any harm to others. They must take certain actions or steps expected from a responsible dog owner. This includes keeping their dog on a leash in public places and getting regular veterinary cases to ensure the dog is healthy. An injured or unhealthy dog is more likely to bite.
Legal Process for Dog Bite Claims in Illinois
Even with all the preventive measures and awareness may not be enough to prevent a dog bite. If you suffered a dog bite, you can take legal action to recover compensation. However, before you initiate legal action, you need to ensure you get the medical attention needed. Dog bite injuries can be extremely serious. Even a seemingly minor injury can get infected and lead to complications. The medical attention you get can also serve as vital evidence in your dog bite claim. You must also report the incident to authorities including the local animal services to ensure the dog doesn’t cause harm to others.
Collect as much evidence as possible from the site where you got bitten. Take photos of the dog, your injuries, and the scene of the dog attack. If there are any eyewitnesses to the incident, ask them if they would be willing to provide witness statements to support your claim. You also need to identify the dog and its owners and ask them to share their contact information.
The first step to initiate legal action is to consult with an attorney who specializes in dog bite cases in Buffalo Grove, IL. They can provide legal guidance and representation through the process. Our dog bite lawyers are well-versed in Illinois dog bite laws and can help you navigate through the legal process of recovering compensation.
Compensation for dog bites is often received from dog owners’ insurance companies. Your attorney will prepare a demand letter detailing how the accident happened, evidence of damages, and the settlement amount. The insurance company will review the letter and may offer a settlement. They may also engage in negotiations, which offer an opportunity for a skillful attorney to secure a full and fair compensation amount.
To learn more about how you can recover compensation and initiate legal action, we encourage you to get in touch with us at Dogbitelaws.com. Our team offers a full range of dog bite legal services in Illinois. Our dog attack lawyer Buffalo Grove IL can assess your case and guide you on your best legal options to recover compensation such as medical expenses and lost wages as a result of the dog bite injury. Contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our dog bite attorneys.
