Dog Bite Lawyer in Bloomington, IL
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. Contact our dog bite lawyer in Bloomington, IL, for more information.
What to Know About Dog Bite Claims in Bloomington, IL
Every dog attack is different, but a few facts hold true for most victims. Here’s what a dog bite lawyer in Bloomington, IL wants you to know before you talk to the owner’s insurance company.
- Illinois holds dog owners strictly liable for bites, even if the dog never showed aggression before, as long as you were lawfully present and did not provoke the dog.
- Illinois generally allows two years from the date of the bite to file a personal injury lawsuit, so getting legal guidance early helps protect your claim.
- You may still recover compensation if you were partly at fault, as long as you were less than 51% responsible, though your award may be reduced.
- Compensation may cover emergency care, reconstructive surgery, lost wages, permanent scarring, and the emotional trauma that often follows an attack.
Illinois Laws That May Apply to Your Dog Bite Case
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 in Illinois 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.
Hurt by Someone Else’s Dog?
A dog attack can leave painful wounds, scars, and a fear that lingers long after. You do not have to deal with the medical bills or the insurance company on your own. Terry Dodds has practiced law since 2000 and offers a free consultation to help you understand your options.
Request A Free ConsultationMeet Our Dog Bite Lawyer
Attorney at Law
Terry Dodds | Bloomington, Illinois
Terry Dodds is a Bloomington-Normal native who has practiced law since 2000. He earned his B.A. in Criminal Justice from Illinois State University and his J.D. from Southern Illinois University School of Law.
Terry began his career as a public defender before entering private practice, where he gained extensive experience in personal injury, workers’ compensation, medical malpractice, and criminal defense. He has handled both trial and appellate matters and is committed to protecting his clients’ rights and pursuing the results they deserve.
Bar Admissions
Illinois – Since 2001
Missouri – Since 2000
Education
J.D. – Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, 2000
B.A. – Illinois State University, 1996
Publications
Equal Pay in College Coaching: A Summary of Recent Decisions
Recognition
Over 20 years of legal experience representing clients in personal injury, workers’ compensation, medical malpractice, and criminal defense matters.
Professional Associations
McLean County Chamber of Commerce — Member since 2007 Illinois State Bar Association — Member since 2006 McLean County Bar Association — Member since 2005
Ready to Discuss Your Case?
Contact Dodds Law Office for a free consultation.
Damages You Can Recover After a Dog Bite in Bloomington
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.
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Steps to Take if You Are Bitten by a Dog in Bloomington
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 lawyer in Bloomington, ILÂ before speaking with insurance companies. Early legal guidance protects your rights and maximizes your potential recovery.
Why Choose a Dog Bite Lawyer 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 our Bloomington dog bite lawyer at 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.
Other Serious Injury Cases We Handle in Bloomington, IL
Let Us Handle the Insurance Company While You Heal
Insurers often look for ways to pay less, such as claiming you provoked the dog. We investigate what happened, calculate your full losses, and push for fair compensation so you can focus on recovery. You pay nothing unless we win.
Dog Bite Injury 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 for the dog bite?
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 by a dog 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 in Illinois?
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.
Dog Bite Injury Resources in Bloomington, IL
A dog bite can require immediate medical treatment and may also need to be reported to local authorities. These Bloomington-Normal resources can help with medical care, animal bite reporting, and animal control matters.
Animal Control & Bite Reporting
McLean County Animal Bite Reporting
Information for reporting animal bites and accessing local public health resources.
Police & Emergency Services
Bloomington Police Department
Use local police resources when an incident requires law enforcement assistance or documentation.
(309) 820-8888
OSF HealthCare St. Joseph Medical Center
2200 E Washington St, Bloomington, IL 61701
(309) 662-3311
Injured in a Dog Bite Attack?
Contact Dodds Law Office, PC to discuss your case.
Our Bloomington, Illinois Office Location
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.