How Does the Justice for Buddy Act Affect Victims of Dog Attacks?

 Posted on April 08, 2020 in Dog Bite Injuries

Victims of animal attacks can suffer serious to life-threatening injuries. The state of Illinois already holds pet owners financially responsible for any injuries that their dog causes to another person or animal. The Justice for Buddy Act took effect in 2019, and it imposes stricter penalties on negligent dog owners. If you or your pet were bitten by an aggressive dog, it is important to seek medical attention if needed, as well as professional legal counsel. The Act can impact your personal injury lawsuit and punish a negligent owner to curb recurring attacks and rehabilitate an aggressive dog.

The Cost of Negligence

The Illinois legislature created the Justice for Buddy Act in response to the death of a dog named Buddy, a Yorkie that was attacked by an aggressive dog in Hanover Park. To make matters worse, the owner was already instructed to keep his dog muzzled when outside for walks. Shockingly, the dog in question was found roaming the neighborhood off-leash a week after Buddy’s death.

To provide a more specific legal framework for cases like this, the Justice for Buddy Act places the following restrictions on a person who has been deemed a "reckless dog owner:"

• Forbids the aggressive dog’s owner from owning a dog for one to three years

• The reckless owner’s dog will be taken away and sent to a sanctuary or shelter to receive appropriate training

This law aims to put the aggressive dog up for adoption to a responsible owner if the dog is deemed safe after proper training.

Abiding By the Justice for Buddy Act

If someone is adopting or already has a dog that tends to be aggressive, it is important for the owner to responsibly care for his or her pet by doing the following:

• Socialize the dog by working with an experienced trainer.

• Instruct the dog in at least basic obedience so that its attention can be redirected in public if necessary.

• Follow any guidance from a trainer, such as using a training collar, muzzle, or any corrective techniques to provide adequate structure to the dog’s life.

Contact an Illinois Dog Bite Injury Attorney

If you or your pet was attacked by an aggressive dog, the skilled legal team at Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices can help you seek compensation for your pain and suffering. We will work to hold a negligent dog owner responsible for your injuries. We understand that many victims of dog bites are hesitant to contact an attorney because of the potential cost, but do not worry, we will only collect a fee if you win your case. Call our knowledgeable and experienced Naperville dog attack lawyers today at 630-552-6860 to schedule your free consultation.

Sources:

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=1704&ChapterID=41