Dog Bites – can the owners be held liable?

Dogs are lovely creatures and make amazing companions, but these canines can harm people by biting them. Over 4.5 million dog bite cases are reported every year in the U.S. alone out of which almost a million bites result in infections leading varying health complications. The numbers suggest that dog bites affect a large portion of the American population which is why states have enacted laws to deal with such cases. Under the Illinois state law, the owner of a dog which attacks people and injures them without provocation can be held liable to compensate the injured person for the injuries incurred by him or her.

What should you do if a dog bites you?

The first and foremost thing that you need to do after being bit by a dog is seek medical attention. Dog bites can be easily infected therefore it is imperative that you get your wound(s) checked by a doctor. Timely medical treatment can protect you from malicious infections. Secondly, it is important that you identify the dog that attacked you. The identity of the dog is pivotal to your case as it would help you ascertain the identity of its owner.

Once you have gotten the necessary first aid and medical treatment, you must report the attack to the local animal regulatory body or the sheriff’s office. Include all the necessary details about the dog and its owner in your report. If you do not know the identity of the dog, describe it and the area where the incident took place. Taking pictures of the visible wounds and injuries can also augment your case as pictures can be used as evidence to prove your compensation claim.

How can a personal injury lawyer help you?

Establishing liability in dog bite cases can be quite tricky, which is why most people consult an experienced dog bite lawyer. From collecting evidence and documenting every important detail to devising a cogent strategy to substantiate your claim, a dog bite lawyer can help you receive financial compensation. The defense might come up with ridiculous arguments and allegations such as claiming that you were trespassing or provoked the canine to attack you. An astute lawyer will foresee any such arguments and counter them effectively using evidence and facts.

For more information or to schedule a free consultation, contact The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens, P.C. today at 847-395-2200 to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney.