Illinois Holds Dog Owners Responsible
Illinois has one of the stronger dog bite laws in the country. Under the Illinois Animal Control Act, a dog owner is liable for injuries when a dog attacks or injures someone who was:
- Acting peaceably, and
- In a place where they had a lawful right to be, and
- Not provoking the dog.
That means you generally don't have to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous. The law's definition of "owner" can also include someone who was keeping or caring for the dog, which can bring in additional insurance coverage.
Who Pays?
Most dog bite claims are paid by the owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance policy, not out of the owner's pocket. Many people hesitate to make a claim against a neighbor, friend or relative. Knowing that insurance usually covers it can make that decision easier.
Dog Bite Injuries
- Deep puncture wounds and infections
- Facial injuries and permanent scarring
- Nerve and tendon damage
- Injuries from being knocked down
- Emotional trauma and fear of dogs, especially in children
Children and facial injuries: Children are bitten more often and more often on the face. Scarring may need care and revision surgery years later, and that future cost should be part of the claim. Phil makes sure it is.
What You Can Recover
Illinois law lets injured people recover compensation for the full harm someone else's negligence caused. Depending on your case, that can include:
- Medical expenses, past and future: ER visits, surgery, therapy, medication and ongoing care
- Lost wages and reduced ability to earn in the future
- Pain and suffering, including physical pain and emotional distress
- Loss of normal life: the activities, hobbies and independence the injury took from you
- Disfigurement and scarring
- Property damage, such as vehicle repair or replacement
"Phil represented us is a terrible dog bite to the face case. He listened to all our concerns and was very compassionate and knowledgeable about the law and negotiation. Very successful settlement."
Michael P., Google review
Common Questions
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Illinois?
In most Illinois personal injury cases, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. Claims against a city, county, park district or other local government can have a much shorter deadline of one year, and some require notice even sooner. Talk to a lawyer as early as you can so a deadline does not quietly end your case.
Do I have to prove the dog bit someone before?
Generally no. Under the Illinois Animal Control Act, the owner can be liable for an unprovoked attack on someone acting peaceably in a place they had a right to be, even if the dog never bit anyone before.
The dog belongs to a friend or family member. Will they have to pay?
In most cases, the owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance pays the claim. Your claim is against the insurance coverage, which exists for exactly this situation.
What should I do right after a dog bite?
Get medical care, because dog bites infect easily. Report the bite to animal control so the dog's vaccination status is checked. Photograph your injuries as they heal, and get the owner's name, address and insurance information.
How much does it cost to hire Phil?
The consultation is free. Phil handles injury cases on a contingency fee, which means his fee is a percentage of what he recovers for you. If there is no recovery, you owe no attorney fee. Phil will explain the fee agreement in writing before you sign anything.