Bloomington Dog Bite Injury Attorney
More than 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs annually in the United States, with one in five requiring medical attention. In Illinois, dog bite victims have strong legal protections that allow them to seek compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, and emotional trauma.
At Dodds Law Office, PC, we understand the devastating impact a dog bite injury can have on your life and are committed to helping you recover the compensation you deserve. Our experienced personal injury attorneys offer free consultations to evaluate your case and guide you through the legal process.
Call a slip and fall lawyer at Dodds Law Offices, P.C. at (309) 829-9300 if you have been injured. FREE consultations.
Illinois Dog Bite Laws
Illinois’ dog bite statute imposes heightened liability on owners and requires them to pay civil damages to anyone their dog bites when the person is legally permitted to be at the location. Under Illinois law, a dog bite includes any seizure with teeth or jaws that nips, grips, wounds, or pierces the skin, as well as contact of the dog’s saliva with any break in the skin.
There are two main exceptions to strict liability: whether the dog was provoked or the victim trespassed on the dog owner’s property. The burden of proving these defenses falls on the dog owner, not the victim. Illinois applies modified comparative fault rules, allowing victims to recover damages as long as they are less than 51% at fault for the incident.
Responsibility of Dog Owners for Dog Bite Injuries
Illinois dog bite laws adhere to strict liability principles, where dog owners are held accountable for any harm caused by their dogs. This means owners cannot escape responsibility by claiming they didn’t know their dog was dangerous or that the dog had never bitten anyone before. Dog owners are responsible for any injuries their dog causes, even if the attack was unforeseeable.
Property owners, landlords, dog sitters, and anyone who had control of the dog at the time of the attack may also share liability. This expanded responsibility ensures victims have multiple avenues for recovering damages, particularly when dealing with severe injuries requiring extensive medical treatment.
Damages You Can Recover After a Dog Bite Injury
Dog bite victims in Illinois can pursue both economic and non-economic damages. Illinois places no caps on compensatory awards for personal injury cases, allowing victims to seek full compensation for their losses.
Economic Damages
Economic damages include:
- Emergency medical treatment and hospitalization
- Reconstructive surgery and ongoing medical care
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Prescription medications and medical devices
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation costs
- Out-of-pocket expenses related to the injury
Non-economic Damages
Non-economic damages encompass:
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Fear of dogs and psychological trauma
- Impact on daily activities and relationships
Insurance companies typically cover damages ranging from $100,000 to $300,000 through homeowner’s liability policies, though severe cases may exceed these limits.
Steps to Take if You Are Bitten by a Dog in Illinois
Taking immediate action after a dog bite protects both your health and legal rights:
- Seek Emergency Medical Treatment – Visit an emergency room or urgent care immediately, even for seemingly minor wounds. Dog bites frequently lead to infection due to the concentration of bacteria in dogs’ mouths. Medical records also document your injuries for legal purposes.
- Report the Incident – Illinois law requires you to file a report with police or animal control within 24 hours of the incident. This creates an official record and triggers mandatory observation of the dog.
- Document Everything – Photograph your injuries, the location where the attack occurred, and any visible wounds. Collect witness contact information and the dog owner’s details.
- Preserve Evidence – Keep all medical bills, receipts, and documentation of missed work. Don’t wash or discard torn clothing from the attack.
- Contact a Personal Injury Attorney – Consult with a dog bite attorney before speaking with insurance companies. Early legal guidance protects your rights and maximizes your potential recovery.
Why Choose a Dog Bite Attorney at Dodds Law Office
At Dodds Law Office, PC, we bring extensive experience handling Illinois dog bite cases. We understand the complexities of strict liability laws and know how to counter common defenses like provocation claims. Our attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
We handle all aspects of your claim, from investigating the incident and calculating damages to negotiating with insurance companies and representing you in court if necessary. Our goal is securing maximum compensation while you focus on healing from your injuries. With our free consultation, you can understand your legal options without any financial obligation.
Contact Dodds Law Office, PC today for a free consultation about your dog bite injury case. We’re here to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
Contact an experienced slip and fall lawyer at Dodds Law Offices to recover compensation. Call (309) 829-9300.
Dog Bite Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a dog bite lawsuit in Illinois?
You have two years from the date of the bite to file a personal injury lawsuit in Illinois. Missing this deadline eliminates your right to seek compensation through the courts.
What if the dog has never bitten anyone before?
Illinois’s strict liability law holds owners responsible regardless of the dog’s history. You don’t need to prove the owner knew their dog was dangerous.
Can I recover damages if I was partially at fault?
Yes, as long as you’re less than 51% responsible for the incident, you can still recover damages, though your compensation may be reduced proportionally.
What if I was bitten while working?
You may have both a workers’ compensation claim and a personal injury claim against the dog owner, potentially increasing your total recovery.
Do most dog bite cases go to trial?
Most cases settle through negotiations with insurance companies, but Dodds Law Office is fully prepared to take your case to trial if necessary for fair compensation.
What if the owner doesn't have insurance that covers dog bite injuries?
The owner may still be personally liable for your damages. We can help identify all potential sources of recovery, including umbrella policies or other responsible parties.
I contacted Terry after a fall at a local business. This fall resulted in surgery and many therapies. With Terry’s help and guidance I received a very fair settlement. Would recommend Terry Dodd to anyone requiring an injury settlement.
What Type of Attorney Do You Need?
In addition to helping slip and fall accident victims in Illinois, the attorneys at Dodds Law Office, PC, represent victims in a variety of personal injury cases.
(309) 829-9300. Free initial consultation.