Peoria Dog Bite Lawyers

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Why Hire a Peoria Dog Bite Lawyer at Our Law Firm?

At Strong Law Offices, our award-winning attorneys represent personal injury victims throughout Central Illinois. We never represent insurance companies or large corporations. 

We dedicate all our resources to protecting the rights of injured people like you.
With over 25 years of experience protecting the rights of those who are injured, our attorneys know the tricks insurance companies use to minimize injuries, pressure victims into accepting low settlements, and even deny liability altogether. We’re skilled negotiators, and we will use evidence and the law to our advantage to counter their efforts and help you win your injury claim. 

​Illinois Dog Bite Laws

There are numerous laws that govern the ownership and control of animals in Illinois. Our dog bite lawyers at Strong Law Offices will review all applicable laws, ordinances, and statutes that govern these types of claims to make sure that you are treated fairly.

Unlike “standard” injury cases that are based on negligence, dog bite and animal attack cases in our state are subject to strict liability principles. Under the law, pet owners are automatically liable for injuries if their pet attacks, or attempts to attack, someone that was not provoking the animal. This applies even if the pet owner was not acting negligently.  

Additionally, you don’t have to get bitten by a dog to have an injury claim against a pet owner. If someone’s horse bucks or another type of pet charges at you, and you fall and get hurt, you can hold the pet owner liable for your injuries.

Who Pays for Dog Bite Injuries?

In our practice, we find that most animal attack cases involve family members, neighbors, or friends, and that can make things especially hard for those who are injured. On one hand, the victim may be facing costly medical bills like surgeries, and if the injuries are severe, the victim may have to miss work as well. These types of expenses can quickly cause financial hardship for the innocent dog bite victim. On the other hand, many clients express concerns over filing lawsuits against the people in their lives to recover compensation for these losses. 

Fortunately, individual pet owners rarely have to pay out of pocket for the injuries their animals cause in Illinois.

Homeowners tend to be protected against liability for injuries caused by animal bites if they have homeowners insurance. To recover compensation, our attorneys would help you file an injury claim against the insurance company. 

Similarly, businesses usually have insurance and are protected against liability if an animal in their care attacks someone, and they may even have the funds to pay for a judgment out of pocket. 

Renters may not be similarly protected. They often get off scot-free, unless they have the assets to cover the dog bite injuries or some type of liability coverage on their animal. Lawmakers are currently weighing a requirement that all dog owners have proof of insurance.

What Should You Do After a Dog Bite?

Suffering a dog attack can leave you injured, shaken, and unsure of what to do next. The actions you take in the hours, days, and weeks after an animal attack are important to getting the care you need, as well as recovering compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

After a dog bite, the steps you should take include:

Seeking Medical Attention

The critical first step after a dog bite is to seek medical attention. Even if the wounds seem minor, they may harbor serious infections. Therefore, it’s essential to get to a doctor or emergency room right away. Getting prompt medical attention helps ensure proper treatment to minimize potential complications or scarring. It also establishes a clear record of your injuries and their cause.

Documenting the Scene

If you are able to do so safely, document the scene. Having pictures of the dog, injuries, and scene of the attack may prove crucial evidence if you pursue a claim for compensation. Also, note the time, location, and any witnesses present. Witness statements may also be used as evidence to support your case. 

Reporting the Attack

File a report with animal control. Doing so will create an official record of the attack, which may be useful if you seek damages for your injuries. It also helps track the dog’s history, in case there is a pattern of aggressive behavior or future attacks.

Consulting With a Dog Bite Lawyer

After a dog attack, you should consult with a personal injury lawyer. An attorney experienced with handling Peoria dog bite claims can advise you on your legal rights and options. Your lawyer will help gather evidence, negotiate with the dog owner’s insurance company, and represent you in the courtroom, should it become necessary.

Left shaken and wounded by a dog attack? Call the Strong Law Offices for a FREE case review today.

Common Types of Dog Bite Injuries

It’s estimated that 4.5 million people each year suffer dog bites, and more than 800,000 require medical treatment for their injuries. Most victims of dog bites are children under age 16, and animal attacks are the seventh-leading cause of emergency room visit for children between ages five and nine. Sadly, between 30 and 50 people succumb to their injuries each year. Nearly half of all dog bites occur on the hands or arms. Some of the most common injuries from such attacks include:

• Puncture wounds
• Lacerations
• Broken bones
• Nerve Damage

Side Effects of Dog Bites

Dog bites can cause varying side effects. Dogs have bacteria in their mouths that they introduce deep in the wound when they bite. Consequently, infections commonly result from dog attacks. Although rare, some dog bite victims may contract rabies, a deadly viral infection. The wounds caused by dog bites can also lead to permanent scarring or disfigurement.

In addition to the physical side effects, dog bites can also leave victims with emotional side effects. Due to the trauma of the attack, some may experience fear of dogs, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder.

Treatment for Dog Bite Complications

The treatment for dog bite complications varies based on the type and severity of the injury. Infections commonly require antibiotics. While rabies does not have a cure, a vaccine can be effective if administered shortly after exposure. Emotional effects resulting from dog attacks may require therapy, medication, or a combination of both. It’s not uncommon for victims to require reconstructive surgery when animal attacks are severe.

What Damages Can You Seek in an Illinois Dog Bite Case?

If you were the victim of a dog bite or animal attack, you have a right to recover compensation. Under state law, you may seek economic and non-economic damages from the dog owner for losses such as: 

• Hospital and medical bills
• Lost wages
• Lost future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Illinois follows strict liability in dog bite claims, allowing you to recover damages, whether the pet owner had prior knowledge of the dog’s aggressive tendencies. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bite Claims

1. When are dog owners liable for dog bite injuries?
   Under Illinois’ strict liability law, dog owners, or whoever harbors or keeps the dog, are liable for any injuries caused by their animal’s attack, attempt to attack, or unintentional incidents. 
2. How do you find a good dog bite lawyer?
   There are a number of places to look to find a good dog bite lawyer in your area. Asking family, friends, or even a doctor can turn up recommendations. You will want to hire a lawyer with experience handling dog bite claims, and with whom you feel comfortable communicating. Reading reviews and checking disciplinary records may also help narrow down your search.
3. What are common defenses to dog bite claims?
   There are a few defenses to dog bite claims. Victims may be barred from recovering damages if they were trespassing on the dog owner’s property, provoked the dog, or were behaving non-peacefully.

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Contact a Peoria Dog Bite Attorney at Strong Law Offices

Have questions? Schedule a free consultation with our lawyers. We are happy to schedule appointments at your convenience. We can meet at any of our four office locations in Peoria, Chicago, Bloomington, and Springfield. Evening, weekend, and hospital appointments are available by request. 

Did someone else’s negligence cause your dog bites or other animal injuries? Call a dog bites or other animal injuries lawyer at Strong Law Offices.