Many dogs are friendly, loyal pets, but any dog can become aggressive and bite, resulting in severe injuries. When this happens, victims may have the right to pursue significant compensation. If you or a loved one has suffered an unprovoked dog bite injury, turn to Michael Kawi Law LLC.
Our team has the skills to handle personal injury claims involving dog bites. You can depend on us to hold the responsible parties accountable and protect your rights. Contact our office today to get started with an experienced Lake County dog bite attorney.
Understanding Illinois Dog Bite Laws
Unlike some states that apply a “one-bite rule,” Illinois holds dog owners strictly liable for dog bites. This means a dog owner is responsible if their dog:
- Attacks, attempts to attack or injures any person, and
- The victim did not provoke the dog
The Illinois Animal Control Act covers dog-related injuries, such as bites and getting knocked-over.
The term “owner” is broadly defined under Illinois law and includes anyone who:
- Has a property right in the animal
- Keeps, harbors, or cares for the dog
- Acts as its custodian
- Knowingly allows the dog to remain on their premises
For example, if a dog owner leaves their pet with a neighbor, that neighbor may be liable for any injuries caused by the dog during that time.
Lake County Ordinances
Lake County has specific ordinances that complement state laws:
- Leash requirements–Owners must control their dogs with a leash when off their property. Any dog found running at large may be apprehended and impounded.
- Dangerous dogs–The county defines procedures for identifying and managing dangerous or vicious dogs. A dog may be deemed dangerous if it bites, attacks, or injures a person or another domestic animal without provocation. Owners of such dogs may be required to confine them securely, muzzle them in public, or obtain liability insurance.
- Reporting bites–Any person aware of an animal bite must notify the Health Officer immediately. The biting animal must be confined and observed for ten days to monitor for rabies.
- Vaccination and registration–All dogs and cats over four months old must be vaccinated against rabies and registered with the county. Owners must provide their pets with a collar or harness and attach the official Lake County registration tag, which should be worn at all times, except when the animal is inside the owner’s residence or receiving care that necessitates removal of the collar or harness.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
The severity of dog bite injuries can vary depending on the size and breed of the dog, as well as the nature of the attack. However, even small dogs can inflict significant harm. Common injuries include:
- Puncture wounds
- Facial disfigurement
- Infections
- Nerve damage
- Torn tissue or muscle
- Psychological trauma and emotional distress
In severe cases, dog bites can result in fatalities, particularly for small children. Additionally, victims who are knocked down in an attack may suffer broken bones, head injuries, or spinal injuries.
Compensation for Dog Bite Victims
If you are injured in a dog bite attack, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses for emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
- Lost wages if you are unable to work due to your injuries.
- Pain and suffering to address physical pain and emotional distress.
- Punitive damages if the owner’s misconduct was particularly egregious.
Dog bite claims are often covered by the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance policy. However, insurance companies frequently attempt to minimize payouts. At Michael Kawi Law LLC, we are skilled negotiators and litigators who will fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Contact Michael Kawi Law LLC Today
A dog bite attack can leave lasting physical and emotional scars. At Michael Kawi Law LLC, we handle the legal complexities so you can focus on healing. As a law firm founded by a public servant, we provide first-rate legal services, charge no fee unless we win, and charge a lower fee than most injury attorneys when we do, allowing you to keep more of your recovery. The sooner you contact our office, the sooner we can start working on your claim.
From our office in Lake County, we represent victims throughout Illinois, including Lake County, McHenry County, Cook County (including Chicago), Boone County, Winnebago County, DuPage County, Kane County, Will County, Kendall County, Grundy County, DeKalb County, and La Salle County.