773-365-0040 Dog bites are serious injuries. While they are often severe injuries in their own right, they can also lead to infection and psychological harm. Time is of the essence when you’ve been involved in a dog bite incident. If your dog has bitten someone else or you are the victim of a dog bite, please get in touch with our Chicago dog bite attorneys at Shea Law Group.
Dog Bite Injuries and Illinois Law
Illinois is a strict liability state when it comes to dog bites, meaning that whether the owner was negligent or not, they can still be held liable if their dog attacks or injures someone. There are only two exceptions: if you were attacked while trespassing, or if you provoked the dog in any way, you are then responsible for your injuries.
These factors mean it’s crucial to work with a knowledgeable law firm when dealing with dog bite cases in Illinois. At Shea Law Group, our dog bite injury lawyers in Chicago have extensive experience representing victims of dog bites in the city and throughout Illinois.
Most Common Types of Injuries Sustained in Dog Attacks
Dogs can attack from anywhere at any time, causing various types of harm, including:
- Scratches can lead to punctured skin, tears in the skin and muscle, and other soft tissue damage.
- Bites are the most common injury from a dog attack, causing puncture wounds, tearing of fascia and muscle, nerve damage, injuries to eyes and ears, and other soft tissue damage.
- Fractures, which can occur in severe cases depending on the size and strength of the dog, lead to breaks in fingers, hands, arms, or legs that require immediate medical attention.
Lastly, it is important to understand that, in addition to the pain and suffering caused by these injuries, dog bite victims often suffer emotional harm and mental anguish due to the attack.
Most Common Causes of Dog Attacks
Dogs may attack for various reasons, but often the trigger is something even their human doesn’t understand. Common triggers include:
- A sudden sound
- An unfamiliar scent
- An unknown person
- A sudden movement that frightens them
Some untrained dogs or dogs that have been abused may attack when they feel threatened, which can be as simple as a sudden movement in their direction. Therefore, it is best to keep your distance from unfamiliar dogs, especially when their owners are not around.
Dog Bite Claims for Delivery Drivers
Delivery drivers face a unique and growing risk of dog attacks. Whether you drive for Amazon, UPS, USPS, FedEx, or gig-economy apps like DoorDash, UberEats, and Instacart, your job requires you to constantly walk onto unfamiliar properties. Under the Illinois Animal Control Act, you are considered to be “lawfully on the property” because you have implied permission to be there to complete a delivery. This means the strict liability law works strongly in your favor.
In practice, the scenario could look something like this: if a homeowner fails to secure their dog and it attacks you while you are dropping off a package or food, the owner can be held liable. This legal protection is especially vital for independent contractors and gig workers who often do not have access to employer-provided workers’ compensation benefits.
If an aggressive dog interrupts your livelihood, our Chicago dog bite injury attorneys in Chicago will help you file a claim (usually against the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance) so you are not left paying out of pocket for medical bills and lost wages.
Learn more about how Shea Law Group handles personal injury claims for delivery drivers.
What Should You Do Following A Dog Bite
Dog bites can be traumatic and lead to significant medical expenses, emotional distress, and complicated legal issues. Whether you’re a victim or a dog owner, understanding the steps to take immediately after a dog bite incident can protect your rights and help manage the situation effectively.
Steps for Dog Bite Victims
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Get Medical Care:
Dog bites can cause serious injuries that require medical attention as soon as possible. However benign the bite may seem, it may result in an infection or a similarly serious concern. Ensure you get medical care promptly to assess and treat your injuries.
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Document the Bite:
Take detailed notes about the incident, including the location, time, and circumstances of the dog bite. If possible, take photographs of your injuries and the scene. Collect contact information from witnesses and the dog owner. All of this information will help build your personal injury case.
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Report the Bite:
Notify the police or animal control about the dog bite. This report can be crucial for any dog bite lawsuits or insurance claims you may need to file later.
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Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer:
Contact a personal injury lawyer who has handled dog bite injury claims. In states like Illinois, which follow strict liability laws, a dog owner can be held liable for injuries their pet causes. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal options available to you.
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File a Claim:
Depending on the circumstances, you may need to file a dog bite injury claim with the dog owner’s insurance company. Your personal injury lawyer can assist in negotiating settlements and ensuring you receive compensation for medical costs, unearned wages, and other damages.
Steps for Dog Owners After a Dog Bite
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Ensure Immediate Safety:
First, ensure the victim gets medical attention. Secure your dog to prevent further incidents and to comply with local animal control laws.
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Exchange Information:
Provide your contact information to the victim and collect theirs as well. You should also offer details about your dog’s vaccination history.
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Document the Incident:
Write down your account of the incident, noting any potential triggers or preceding events. This documentation can be essential for your defense in a dog bite lawsuit.
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Report the Bite:
Contact local authorities to report the bite. This is often a legal requirement and helps in case the victim files a report.
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Contact Your Insurance Company:
Notify your insurance company about the dog bite incident. They can guide you through the process of handling claims and legal issues. Many homeowner’s insurance policies cover dog bite incidents.
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Consult A Dog Bite Attorney In Chicago:
Seek advice from a dog bite attorney, especially if the victim pursues a dog bite injury claim. An attorney can help protect your rights and navigate the complexities of strict liability laws in the United States.
Why Choose a Dog Bite Injury Attorney in Chicago from Shea Law Group?
At Shea Law Group, we pride ourselves on providing our clients with excellent legal representation, and we are committed to ensuring that you receive the compensation you need to recover fully. Our experienced dog bite attorneys will help you through the dog bite injury claims process from beginning to end, making sure you understand what’s happening at each step. We know how to navigate through the complicated forms and requirements of insurance companies, so let us handle the technical parts of your claim while you focus on recovering.
