Chicago Dog Bite Lawyer

In the United States, there are estimated to be 4.5 million dog bites that occur every year. The dog bite injury statistics in Illinois alone show just how prevalent dog attacks are in the community. It would appear that one of the most beloved pets is unfortunately involved in far too many attacks, whether provoked or not. Most of these dog bites result in minor injuries, but some result in more serious injuries, and possibly have long-term consequences.

The Illinois statute of limitations states that dog bite claims need to be filed within 2 years of an attack. If a claim is not filed within that time period, the defendant can request a motion to dismiss the case. Courts will usually honor these requests, so it’s important to file a dog bite claim as soon as possible.

Types of Injuries Sustained from Dog Attacks

Dog bites can result in severe injuries, especially if the victims are vulnerable, like children or the elderly. In fact, children constitute some of the most frequent victims of dog bites across Illinois.

Puncture Wounds

One of the more common injuries that people get from a dog attack are puncture wounds. This typically occurs due to the sharp canine teeth. Dogs can often bite down with force, especially when they’re threatened, which leads to punctures in the skin. Depending on where a dog bites, puncture wounds can lead devastating injuries.

Nerve Damage

If the bite from a dog punctures the skin, there’s a chance that the injury can also lead to nerve damage. Damaged nerves can take a long time to heal and may also lead to lower quality of life if the damage is long-lasting.

Rabies

If a victim is bitten by a dog carrying rabies, there is a significant chance of death if medical attention is not sought immediately. In fact, there are over 59,000 deaths related to rabies every year. Rabies requires a lengthy treatment process which also results in high medical costs. Even if the actual bite from a dog is not severe, the rabies alone can wreak havoc on a person’s body and quickly lead to a difficult financial situation. This is why retaining a Chicago dog bite lawyer as soon as possible is crucial for receiving the compensation you need and deserve.

Infections

In addition to rabies, there are other infections that can result from a dog bite. There are various strains of bacteria that live in a dog’s mouth. If one of those strains of bacteria enters the bloodstream of a dog bite victim, it can quickly spread and cause harm to the body.

What To Do After A Dog Attack

1) Clean your injuries and seek medical attention

Since dogs can carry many different types of germs, you should clean your injuries as thoroughly as possible. If your injuries are severe, you should be transported to a hospital where medical professionals can sanitize and close up your wounds. Even if your injuries are minor, you should visit a hospital or urgent care clinic to take preventative measures against infection or rabies.

2) Get the dog owner’s contact information

It’s important to write down the dog owner’s contact information following any type of incident. This information will be crucial when an attorney or some other party needs to verify the vaccination history of the dog that attacked.

3) Find any witnesses

If there were witnesses to the dog attack, make sure you or a loved one approaches them for their contact information as well. Witnesses can play an important role in verifying the details of an incident and providing more details.

4) Contact Chicago animal control

If the dog that attacked has a history of being aggressive, it’s very important to prevent this from happening to anyone else. You should contact Chicago animal control to report the incident so they can start an investigation.

Compensation for Dog Bite Claims

After you or a loved one have been attacked by a dog, it’s important to seek legal counsel in order to protect your rights. Illinois animal control laws allow victims to hold the owner responsible for any losses sustained as a result of a dog bite. If the financial damages are low, an experienced dog bite lawyer can help navigate you through the process of arbitration, where you would reach a settlement for compensation.

However, if the dog bite has resulted in more severe injuries, and a favorable settlement is coming to fruition, plaintiffs may take the case to a trial court. Whatever the type of dog bite you have suffered, get in touch with an experienced Chicago dog bite attorney near you who will help establish liability, and recover damages for you.

What Will A Chicago Dog Bite Lawyer Do For You?

If you choose to hire Michael Brennan for representation in a dog bite claim, he will build the foundation for a strong case about your injuries. speaking to any witnesses and securing evidence that will help establish liability in your dog bite case. He will get in touch with insurers, demand payment for you. And if the insurance company does not agree to a favorable settlement, he will not hesitate to go to trial to protect your rights.

After a dog bite, you need knowledgeable legal representation and Michael Brennan will provide such representation. Call today to speak with an experienced dog bite attorney near you. We represent victims of dog bites around Cook County and throughout Illinois.

Contact Our Chicago Dog Bite Lawyer For Professional Legal Guidance

Being attacked and injured by a dog can be a traumatizing experience. Victims are often shocked at the callous treatment they receive from insurance companies, who may be more interested in protecting their bottom lines than victims’ interests.

Michael Brennan’s Chicago personal injury law firm assures clients receive efficient service and prompt communication. Call our firm today to set up your free case evaluation regarding a dog bite injury. We are ready to serve you.