It’s no secret that dogs can make wonderful companions, but it’s important to remember that even our four-legged friends can be unpredictable.
Thousands of people are hospitalized daily due to dog attacks—a stark reminder that even our beloved pets can do serious damage if left unattended. Though fatalities are rare, animal attacks almost always result in terrible pain and suffering and can lead to thousands of dollars in medical bills and other expenses
If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite injury due to an unprovoked attack, Illinois law has provisions that make the animal’s owner responsible for paying for all your damages. Don’t underestimate the magnitude of the damages suffered.
Consult a Decatur dog bite lawyer at Onward Injury Law to hold the owner responsible for their negligence and to recover fair and just compensation for your damages.
Dog Bite Facts
- The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) reports that dog bites result in about 1,000 ER visits per day, with about 25 hospital stays per day across the United States
- According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), most dog bite injuries occur to the arms, hands, legs, feet, head, or neck
- Sadly, most dog attack victims are children, with about 50% of dog attacks involving children less than 12 years old, and about 70% of fatalities occurring in children under ten years old
- Most attacks occur in a familiar place, often on the pet owner’s property
- According to DogsBite.org (a website that compiles national statistics on dog attacks), there were 48 dog bite fatalities in the United States in 2019.
- Unfortunately, according to the CDC, many of the breed and crossbreed mixes that are most popular in Illinois are listed as the most commonly involved in dog bite-related human fatalities.
How Do Dog Bite Cases Work in Illinois?
Here is an overview video on dog bite cases in Illinois.
Illinois Law on Dog Bites and Animal Attacks
The Illinois Animal Control Act makes a negligent owner liable for any injuries or damages resulting from an unprovoked attack by his dog or another animal. This applies to any injuries sustained, even if the animal only tries to attack, whether or not a bite wound occurs.
To recover for the damages, you must prove the following elements:
- The owner’s (or whoever was in actual control of the animal at the time) animal attacked, attempted to attack, or otherwise injured you
- You didn’t provoke the attack
- You had a right to be where the attack occurred, and
- You were acting peacefully
Here is an overview video on the Illinois Animal Control Act.
A knowledgeable and experienced Decatur dog bite attorney, working for you as early as possible, will help you determine the responsible party and get just compensation for the negligence.
Decatur Local Leash Laws
In Decatur, Illinois, dog owners must always keep their pets on a leash when in public places. Failing to do so violates the lease agreement and may result in fines. Furthermore, dogs are not allowed to be unattended or ‘loose’ in any street, alley, parkway, or place open to the public, including all sidewalks, regardless of the type of leash used.
Even on the owner’s property, dogs must be controlled and humanely confined by a fence, kennel, or similar enclosure.
Should I Hire an Attorney for a Dog Bite in Decatur?
If a dog has bitten you, it is important to consider hiring an attorney to help you seek the compensation you deserve. An experienced lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal system and maximize the compensation you receive.
Decatur dog bite lawyers help you:
- Understand the laws. Dog bite laws in Decatur can be complicated to navigate. An experienced attorney can help you understand the laws and ensure you take the necessary steps to seek justice.
- Maximize compensation. Dog bite attorneys can help you maximize your compensation by negotiating with the insurance company and filing a lawsuit against the negligent party.
- Avoid mistakes. Mistakes in the legal process can be costly and time-consuming. An attorney can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your case is handled correctly.
- With representation in court. If your case goes to court, an attorney can represent you and protect your rights.
- By providing sound advice. Your attorney will be well-versed in Illinois dog bite law and can provide you with the best advice to help you with your case.
Get Help Now With Dog Bite Claims. Call Onward Injury Law.
Did a dog attack you in Decatur, IL? We’re here to help.
Call now for a no-obligation, free legal consultation. Our injury lawyers will be happy to answer any questions, advise you about the value of your dog bite case and strategies for identifying insurance coverage, and help develop a plan to maximize your compensation.
If you hire our team, we will do everything within our power to make the process as easy as possible for you, so you can focus on your physical recovery, your family, and returning to your normal life.