Dog Bites

Dog bites can terrify and leave permanent scars – both emotionally and physically. Tragically, many dog bite victims are children. In fact, according to one authority on dog bites nationwide, children are most susceptible to dog bites, and particularly suffer facial injuries from these attacks – given their relative height to dogs. Unfortunately, these innocent injured parties often must go through grueling recuperative surgeries and therapies to heal. And, since one in six injuries sustained by dog bites will require medical attention, which can cost upward of $37,000 according to 2015 data, victims and their families are often hit with financial hardship, as well.

Illinois Law Regarding Dog Bites

There is good news for victims of dog attacks and bites. Illinois law is very clear about how dog bite matters should be handled. If a dog that was not provoked causes injury, then the victim (or his or her family, in the case of children) may be entitled to fair compensation for those damages. Similarly, if an injury is sustained while fleeing from an aggressive dog – for instance, if you broke your ankle or got hit by a car while running away from the vicious animal – then the victim is similarly protected, and can seek damages.

Illinois is also what’s known as a “first bite” state. This means that the first time a dog bites someone, even if it’s never bitten anyone before, there is entitlement to damages.

These cases are not always as straightforward as they may seem, however. While Illinois advocates for dog bite victims, there are several exceptions to liability for dog bites and attacks. If the victim was peaceful and not provoking the dog, while also being legally present on the property, then there may be a claim for rightful compensation. These exceptions mean that speaking with an attorney is crucial in discovering whether or not you or a loved one has a claim.

Why Choose Malman Law

If you’ve suffered from a dog bite injury, then it is important to entrust your situation to attorneys with experience in dog bite and personal injury cases. At Malman Law, we have worked with numerous victims just like you who now face physical, emotional, and financial hardship.

When you retain our services, our team of attorneys will immediately go to work.

We’ll investigate precisely how the dog bite and attack occurred, and leverage our resources and deep knowledge of Illinois state law to see that justice is served and that you’re fairly compensated for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and additional costs. We have an on-staff physician who holds a law degree, so we can thoroughly assess your injuries and determine the most strategic way to move your claim forward. With our over 25 years of experience in more than 25,000 cases, in which we’ve often secured large settlements, it’s easy to see that we have the experience and knowledge that you need while seeking compensation after your dog attack injuries.