The statistics on dog bites are staggering. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year, resulting in 800,000 emergency room visits and $1 billion dollars in medical costs. If you or someone you love has been bitten, we can help you recover the medical costs and damages. Contact Sethna & Cook today at (630) 574 – 3600 and our personal injury lawyer Wheaton will help you.
In Illinois alone, there are about 592 reported dog bite incidents a year, more than any other state except California and Texas. Chicago also has its own issues: according to data from the city’s Animal Care & Control department, there were 23 fatal attacks since 2007 when looking at only pit bulls. This figure does not include nonfatal attacks or other breeds such as German shepherds and rottweilers which also have reputations for being aggressive towards humans.
Illinois Dog Bite Facts
The state has seen a significant increase in both dog bites and lawsuits related to them over recent years; however, this trend is not unique to Illinois. Across the country as whole there has been an increase in both instances of dog attacks on humans and subsequent lawsuits filed by those injured by them.
One possible explanation is that more people are keeping pets as pets and with increased exposure comes increased risk of injury from those animals’ behavior or actions. However another possibility is simply better reporting systems. Nowadays anyone can take pictures/video footage using their phone which makes documenting such incidents easier than ever before and increases our awareness about potential dangers like this one
As of 2023, Illinois has some of the strictest laws in the United States regarding dog bites. These laws are in place to protect both people and animals from the potential harm that can result from dog bites.
Illinois has a strict liability law when it comes to dog bites. This means that the owner of a dog is responsible for any injuries caused by the dog as a result of the animal attack, regardless of whether the owner knew the dog was capable of those behaviors. An exception to this rule is if the victim was trespassing on the owner’s property or intentionally provoking the dog. In these cases, the owner may not be held liable for any injuries caused by the dog.
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, a personal injury lawyer Wheaton, can help you recoup your losses. You may have to pay for medical expenses, surgery, ongoing treatment, and medications. The attorneys at Sethna & Cook can help you get the financial security you deserve.
Why dogs bite
There are many reasons why a dog might bite. Dogs bite for protection, to defend their territory or pack members from an intruder, or to show dominance over another dog. They also bite when they’re scared or anxious, which can happen if you try to pick them up or approach them when they don’t know you. They may also bite if they feel threatened by your actions.
What to do if you’re injured
If you have been injured in a dog attack, you should start by getting medical attention. Even if the wound seems minor, it is important to have it checked by a medical professional to prevent infection and ensure proper healing. After that you should report the incident to the local animal control. This can help prevent future incidents and ensure that the dog is properly restrained or removed from the area.
Once you’ve been taken care of, gather information about the dog and its owner, including: their name, address, and phone number, and other contact information. This information can be useful if you decide to pursue legal action. If you or your child have been bitten by a dog, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. It is important to consult with a personal injury lawyer Wheaton who specializes in dog bite cases to explore your legal options.
Your personal injury lawyer Wheaton from Sethna & Cook will make sure the liable parties are held accountable
If you are bitten by a dog, the owner of that dog is usually liable for your injuries. If you were bitten by someone else’s dog and they did not have permission to use it, then that person would also be held responsible. In some cases, however, if you provoked a dog or were otherwise negligent in how you interacted with it before being bitten, you may share some liability.
If a dog bites you, the law holds its owner responsible for any injuries you suffer. The Illinois Supreme Court has held that if a person knows or should have known that his/her dog has dangerous propensities, then he or she will be liable for any injuries caused by those propensities (e.g., biting).
If you have been injured by a dog bite in Illinois, the owner of the dog is responsible. If you are unsure of who owns the dog or whether they are liable for your injuries, contact a personal injury lawyer Wheaton who can help answer these questions and protect your rights.