I Was Bitten By A Dog, Do I Have A Case?

You might. Illinois law clearly defines the responsibilities of dog owners to control and restrain their dogs and in most cases, the burden of liability is placed on the dog owner should a bite or attack occur.

Dog bite law in Illinois

The Illinois Animal Control Act (p510 ILCS 5/16:Sec. 16.p) clearly defines liability:

"If a dog or other animal, without provocation, attacks, attempts to attack, or injures any person who is peaceably conducting himself or herself in any place where he or she may lawfully be, the owner of such dog or other animal is liable in civil damages to such person for the full amount of the injury proximately caused thereby."

While many states allow for "first bite" relief of liability, the state of Illinois doesn't.

Dangerous animal laws

Owners of dogs deemed to be classified as "dangerous" may have additional, extensive requirements placed upon their ownership and maintenance of the animal, including, but not limited to: reinforced or confined quarters, muzzles, sterilization, added liability insurance, obedience training or other specific stipulations to care.

Contact Horwitz Horwitz & Associates

The Chicago injury lawyers at Horwitz Horwitz & Associates are experienced trial attorneys committed to seeking full justice for victims of a dog attack, including medical compensation and damages for lost wages, reconstructive surgery, emotional distress, or pain and suffering that may linger months, or even years following an attack.

A free consultation with our Chicago injury attorneys can help ease your fears and protect your rights. If appropriate, we'll arrange for an immediate investigation while evidence is fresh, including statements from witnesses and the Defendant, and photographs of the scene and injuries.

We invite you for a free telephone or in person consultation to discuss your accident and any questions you may have. Even if you do not wish to retain an attorney, we can set you on the right path for free. Most of our lawyers have more than 30 years of experience and we have an outstanding track record in helping our clients and creating a strong trust relationship, as you can see in our Success Record. Please call our Chicago office at (312) 372-8822, or our Joliet office at (815) 723-8822, or you can call our toll-free number at (800)-985-1819.