What To Know After Dog Bite Or Other Animal Attack In Illinois

What To Know After Dog Bite Or Other Animal Attack In Illinois

Dog bite victims in Illinois must deal with complicated laws to determine liability for the animal attack and what the case is worth. Learn more in this article if someone’s dog bit you, then our Illinois dog bite injury lawyers at The Law Office of Robert T. Edens, P.C., can answer any questions.

Illinois Dog Bite Laws

The Illinois Animal Control Act states that the law applies to injuries caused by dogs and other kinds of animals. According to the statute, if a dog bit you, you must prove the following:

  • The dog attacked or tried to attack you.
  • You were lawfully in the location where you suffered the bite or injury.
  • You did not provoke the animal.

If the above factors apply to your case, you may be able to file a claim against the owner. An Illinois dog bite lawyer can review your case and determine if you are eligible for compensation.

Dog Owner Responsibilities In Illinois

The Animal Control Act states that a dangerous dog is not on the owner’s property and does not have a muzzle. Also, it is not leashed or accompanied. Also, the animal’s behavior must present an unjustified and severe threat of injury to others.

The owner of a vicious or dangerous dog must keep the dog secured on their property always. According to state law, a vicious dog should be contained by a fence or similar structure so that children and others cannot enter the yard. Also, the owner of such a dog must keep it leashed if they take it somewhere that is not on their property.

Illinois Strict Liability Laws

You can base a claim on either negligence or strict liability with a dog bite or an animal attack. With strict liability, the owner is responsible for your injuries if the dog bit you without being provoked. Strict liability may be preferable when claiming because the owner cannot say they did not know the dog was dangerous. Some owners may do this to avoid liability.

The only exceptions are if you were trespassing on the dog owner’s property when the attack occurred. Or, you intentionally provoked the animal to attack. The dog owner may not be liable for your injuries in these cases.

Statute Of Limitations For Dog Bite Case

In Illinois, you have two years from the date of injury to file a dog bite injury lawsuit. If you do not file your case on time, you are barred from suing the liable party.

Contact Our Illinois Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

If you were bitten by someone else’s dog recently, you should first seek immediate medical care. Getting prompt medical attention is essential both for your health and potential claim. Then, you should speak to an experienced attorney about your legal options. If you did not provoke the animal, you may be entitled to compensation in a personal injury lawsuit. Contact our Illinois dog bite injury lawyers at The Law Office of Robert T. Edens, P.C. to review your case today, so please call (847) 395-2200.

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