Pursuing Damages in an Illinois Dog Bite Injury Case

 Posted on February 26, 2024 in Dog Bite Injuries

Although we love our dogs, the reality is that they are still animals, and even what appears to be the best-behaved dog can bite someone. There are a variety of reasons why a dog may bite, but – regardless of those reasons – the owner or person responsible for the dog can be held liable for any losses the person who is bitten suffers because of those injuries. The type of compensation depends on various factors, such as the severity of the bite and the circumstances surrounding the incident. These cases can be complex, so you should consult an Illinois personal injury lawyer.

Determining Liability for the Bite

When someone suffers a dog bite injury, the first step is to seek medical attention promptly. Not only is this essential for one's health and well-being, but it also establishes a medical record documenting the extent of the injury, which can be crucial in legal proceedings.

Once the person has received treatment, the next step is figuring out who the party is that is liable for the dog's action. Although some states have what is referred to as the "one bite" rule, where dog owners are only held liable if they are aware of their dog's aggressive tendencies, Illinois adheres to the strict liability doctrine. Under this rule, the dog's owner is liable for the dog's action if they had no idea the dog was capable of this type of behavior.

Part of proving your dog bite case is proving who owns the dog and that the dog caused your injuries. This can be done by using witness statements, medical records, photographs of your injuries and the scene where the attack took place, and any other evidence your dog bite attorney feels is relevant.

Establishing the Extent of Damages

Once your lawyer has established who the liable party or parties are, the next step is to prove the extent of your losses due to the bite. All your medical expenses – including emergency treatment, surgery, hospital bills, rehabilitation, medications, and more – are all considered damages in a dog bite claim.

If you cannot work while recovering, you can also include any wages or other income you lost in your claim. In cases of severe injuries or permanent disfigurement, compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life may also be pursued.

Contact a Will County, IL Personal Injury Attorney for a Free Case Evaluation

If you have been bitten or attacked by a dog, do not pursue a claim alone. Receiving compensation for a dog bite injury often involves negotiations with the owner's insurance company, and insurance adjusters are notorious for trying to minimize the amount of compensation the injured party will receive. Call Dog Bite Injury Lawyer - Mevorah Law Offices LLC at 630-552-6860 to schedule a free consultation with one of our Aurora, IL dog bite lawyers to find out what legal recourse you may have.