When Are Dog Owners Not Liable for Bites or Attacks?

 Posted on August 16, 2024 in Animal Attacks

Often called "man’s best friends," dogs can make great companions. Unfortunately, they can also be dangerous. Dog attacks can include knockdowns, bites, and severe emotional trauma; they may also cause secondary accidents that further injure victims.

Each state has laws that define a dog owner’s responsibilities and liability if the animal attacks someone. Are you familiar with Illinois dog bite laws? Is the dog’s owner always liable for injuries sustained in an attack? Our experienced DuPage County dog bite injury lawyers answer these vital questions.

What Is the Illinois Dog Bite Law?

In many Illinois cases involving animal attacks — dogs and other kinds of animals as well — the owner is liable to compensate injured victims. This is true even if the animal has never attacked or bitten anyone, and the owner did not know the animal has aggressive tendencies.

You may be able to obtain compensation through a strict liability or negligence-based claim. However, there are some specific circumstances when you cannot hold the owner liable for a dog bite or attack:

• Someone who is trespassing on private property when the attack occurs usually cannot obtain compensation. Young children who likely do not realize they are trespassing are typically exempt.

• Someone who provokes the dog, whether intentionally or by actions that may trigger aggressive behavior, generally does not qualify.

• Someone who is in the process of committing a crime may cause a dog to attack to protect its owner. Even if the owner commands the animal to attack to defend himself or others, he is usually not liable for any resulting injuries.

In other cases, you may have grounds to receive compensation from third parties if their negligence resulted in the attack that injured you. Potentially liable third parties include veterinarians, landlords, pet sitters, and dog walkers.

What Are Common Dog Attack Injuries?

Dog attacks can be terrifying. You may run in an attempt to get away, only to fall and sustain injuries. The panic experienced during an attack can cause a heart attack or trigger an asthma attack. More common injuries resulting from a dog attack include:

• Bites, including puncture wounds and torn flesh

• Scratches

• Impact injuries caused by the dog knocking the victim down

• Defensive wounds, particularly to the hands and arms

• Facial and head wounds, especially when small children are attacked

• Broken bones

• Significant PTSD, anxiety, and depression

Dog attack victims often develop a life-long fear of dogs. Long after physical wounds heal, victims can still be dealing with detrimental effects on their quality of life. You may qualify for various damages, including medical expenses, ongoing care, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related losses.

Contact Us Today To Speak With a Compassionate Naperville, IL Dog Bite Lawyer

If you suffer injuries due to an animal attack, the experienced lawyers at Dog Bite Injury Lawyer - Mevorah Law Offices LLC are here to help. Call us at 630-552-6860 to request your free consultation with one of our dedicated DuPage County, IL dog bite attorneys.