I Was Bitten by a Dog - Do I Have a Personal Injury Case in Illinois?

Lake County Personal Injury Lawyers for Dog Bite Attacks

If you have been bitten by a dog or another type of animal owned by someone else, you may have a personal injury case. Under the Illinois Animal Control Act, if someone's dog injures you, then the person who holds, harbors, or owns the dog may be liable for your medical bills, as well as your pain and suffering.

Prior to 2006, a dog bite victim was required to prove that the owner knew, or should have been aware, that the dog or animal had exhibited dangerous behavior in the past. However, in most cases today, there is strict liability, meaning that the owner must pay for the damages caused by their animal. In fact, Illinois is one of few states that does not have a one free strike law allowing dogs basically one free bite before the owner can be sued. Hence, Illinois has one of the highest rates of dog bite claims and lawsuits.

An important factor in a personal injury case that involves an animal is whether or not the owner, or whoever had control over that animal, has homeowner's insurance. If they do, the insurance may cover all of the financial and personal injuries you have suffered as a result of their dog or animal. We will investigate the insurance policy of the animal's owner as a way to pursue every available option to ensure you receive compensation for your injury.

Lake County Animal Attack Attorneys

If you have been injured by a dog or animal bite, contact Salvi & Maher, LLP for a free, no-obligation consultation at 847-662-3303. We will discuss the details of your case and work with you to determine whether you will be able to recover compensation. From our offices in Libertyville, Waukegan, Richmond, and Chicago, IL, we serve clients in the Cook, Will, DuPage, Lake and McHenry County.