Peoria Dog Bite Lawyers

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How a Dog Bite Attorney Helps You Move Forward

Animal attacks can result in physical injury, emotional trauma, and lasting scarring. Many victims feel overwhelmed as they juggle medical care, work disruptions, and pressure from insurance adjusters. Our job is to guide you through the process and protect your rights.

We assist by:

• Identifying all responsible parties and their insurance coverage
  
• Collecting medical records and documenting the full extent of your injuries
  
• Securing animal control reports, witness accounts, and available video footage
  
• Calculating short-term and long-term financial losses
  
• Communicating directly with insurance companies
  
• Preparing the claim for settlement or litigation
  
• Providing consistent updates and practical advice

Dog bite cases often involve homeowners insurance, renters insurance, commercial policies, and local animal ordinances. We handle these details so you can focus on your recovery.

Why Injured Victims in Peoria Choose Strong Law Offices

Dog bite cases require a detailed understanding of strict liability, local ordinances, and the defenses insurers use to shift blame. Clients in Peoria choose us because we bring proven experience and a focused approach to each case.

Our attorneys offer:

• Local knowledge of Peoria neighborhoods and animal control regulations
• Decades of experience handling dog bite claims across Illinois
• A strategy built on evidence, not assumptions
• Direct communication and clear guidance
• A contingency fee arrangement with no upfront cost

We represent victims injured throughout Peoria, including areas near the Riverfront District, North Peoria, Bradley University, War Memorial Drive, Knoxville Avenue, Glen Avenue, and parks where loose or uncontrolled dogs are common.

With over 25 years of experience protecting the rights of those who are injured, we understand the risks, and we know how to challenge insurers who attempt to minimize accountability.

Understanding Illinois Dog Bite Law

Illinois uses strict liability for dog bite and animal attack claims. This means pet owners and those responsible for controlling an animal are liable for injuries when:

• The animal attacks, attempts to attack, or injures someone
• The victim was lawfully present
• The victim was acting peaceably
• The victim did not provoke the animal

Unlike negligence-based claims, you do not need to prove the owner acted carelessly. Liability exists because the attack happened. This applies even if the dog never showed aggression before.

Illinois law also applies to more than bites. If a dog charges, jumps, knocks you down, or causes you to fall, the owner may still be liable for resulting injuries.

We review state statutes, Peoria County ordinances, and available evidence to build a strong claim.

Who Pays for a Dog Bite Injury in Illinois?

Many people hesitate to file a dog bite claim because the animal belongs to a friend, family member, neighbor, or landlord. In most cases, you are not seeking payment directly from the individual. Instead, their insurance coverage applies.

Common sources of coverage include:

• Homeowners insurance
• Renters insurance
• Landlord liability insurance
• Commercial policies if the attack occurred on business property

Personal relationships should not stop you from seeking recovery. Medical bills, missed work, and long-term effects can cause significant financial strain. Insurance exists to cover these losses.

If the owner has no insurance or limited coverage, we evaluate whether additional parties, such as landlords or property managers, share responsibility.

What to Do in the Days After a Dog Bite in Peoria

A dog attack can leave you frightened, injured, and unsure of what to do next. The steps you take in the days following the attack can help protect your health and strengthen your claim.

1. Get Medical Care and Follow-Up Treatment

Dog bites can lead to infections, nerve damage, scarring, and long-term complications. Follow your doctor’s recommendations, attend follow-up appointments, and monitor changes in your symptoms.

2. Track Your Symptoms and Daily Limitations

Pain, swelling, restricted movement, sleep disturbances, and emotional effects such as anxiety or fear of animals can all be relevant. Keep a simple journal to show how your injuries affect your daily life.

3. Save Medical Bills and Related Records

Hold onto hospital bills, prescriptions, receipts, work absence notes, and any documentation of out-of-pocket expenses. These form the foundation of your economic damages.

4. Report the Incident to Animal Control

Illinois law requires that anytime an animal bites a human, it must be reported to police or animal control. Peoria County Animal Protection Services investigates dog attacks, verifies vaccination status, and completes bite reports that can support your case.

5. Contact Strong Law Offices Early

We act quickly to secure evidence, communicate with insurers, and guide your next steps. Early legal involvement helps prevent mistakes that insurers could later use to challenge your claim.

Common Injuries in Dog Bite and Animal Attack Cases

Dog attacks can cause a wide range of injuries depending on the size of the animal, the force of the bite, and the location of the wound.

Common injuries include:

• Puncture wounds
• Deep lacerations
• Nerve damage
• Tendon injuries
• Broken bones from falls
• Infections
• Scarring and permanent marks

Side Effects of Dog Bites

Dog bites often lead to bacterial infections, including those requiring antibiotics or hospitalization. Rabies exposure, though rare, requires immediate medical attention. Many victims also experience permanent scarring, especially when the face, arms, or hands are injured.

Emotional Effects After an Attack

Fear of dogs, anxiety, nightmares, and post-traumatic stress symptoms are common. These emotional injuries are real and can be documented through counseling or therapy.

Treatment for Dog Bite Complications

Treatment may include wound care, antibiotics, vaccines, surgical repair, scar revision, physical therapy, and mental health support. Severe cases may require multiple medical procedures.

Damages You May Recover in an Illinois Dog Bite Case

Illinois law allows victims of dog bites and animal attacks to pursue full financial recovery for a range of losses.

These may include:

• Medical bills and future medical needs
• Lost wages
• Reduced future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life

We evaluate your injuries, your medical records, and the long-term impact of the attack to build a complete and accurate claim.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Claims

When are dog owners liable for dog bite injuries?

Under Illinois strict liability law, dog owners and anyone responsible for controlling the animal are liable if the dog bites or injures someone who was lawfully present, acting peacefully, and not provoking the dog.

What are the common defenses in dog bite cases?

Common defenses include claims that the victim provoked the dog, was trespassing, or was behaving in a threatening manner. We gather evidence to counter these assertions.

How do I choose the right dog bite lawyer?

Look for an attorney with experience in Illinois dog bite law, strong communication skills, and a track record of handling injury claims in Peoria. A consultation can help you evaluate whether the firm is the right fit.

How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Illinois?

Most victims have two years from the date of the attack to file a personal injury lawsuit. There are exceptions for minors and claims involving governmental entities.

Talk to a Peoria Dog Bite Lawyer at Strong Law Offices

If you were injured in a dog bite or animal attack, Strong Law Offices is ready to help. Call 309-393-2928 to schedule a free consultation at one of our offices in Peoria, Chicago, Bloomington, or Springfield. Evening, weekend, and hospital appointments are available upon request.

We manage the legal burden so you can focus on your recovery.