A dog bite can have devastating physical, emotional, and financial consequences for the victim. You may be facing financial hardship from missed work and unexpected medical bills. When a dangerous animal attacks you, you may have a right to take legal action.
Consult with an Elk Grove Village dog bite lawyer at The Kryder Law Group today. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are prepared to listen to the circumstances leading to your accident and explain your viable legal options.
Dog Bite Laws in Illinois
Establishing liability is crucial to pursuing a successful dog bite claim. Illinois law holds pet owners strictly liable for injuries caused by their animals. This means that regardless of the dog’s history or the owner’s knowledge of its aggressive tendencies, they are responsible for the damages resulting from the dog bite incident. However, there are several exceptions to the strict liability rule, which could greatly impact your case.
For example, if a person provokes the dog or is trespassing, the dog owner may argue that their liability should be reduced or eliminated. However, even in such cases, the dog owner may still be held accountable if the individual is a child younger than five, as they are generally considered incapable of provoking an animal.
Illinois also follows a modified comparative fault system. This means the court may consider the injured person’s actions or negligence when determining damages. If the court determines the injured party’s responsibility for the incident is 50 percent or greater, they may be unable to recover any compensation. However, if the court finds the injured person partially at fault but less than 50 percent, it will reduce their recoverable damages proportionally.
Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Cases
Dog bite victims need to understand the statute of limitations. Generally, the Illinois statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including dog bite cases, is two years from the date of the incident. Individuals who fail to file a law in time may lose their right to seek compensation. A proactive Elk Grove Village dog bite attorney could help you avoid missing these filing deadlines and protect your ability to obtain the financial recovery you deserve.
Available Compensation for Dog Bites
All personal injury victims in Illinois, including dog bite victims, may receive financial compensation for their economic and non-economic damages. The types and amount of damages awarded will vary depending on the specific facts of the case, though it may include:
- Medical Expenses
- Lost Wages
- Pain and Suffering
- Scarring and Disfigurement
- Emotional Distress
- Property Damage
A determined dog bite lawyer in Elk Grove Village could help you calculate the amount and various forms of compensation that may be available in your particular case.
Reach Out to an Elk Grove Village Dog Bite Attorney
When faced with the physical and emotional aftermath of an animal attack, help from an Elk Grove Village dog bite lawyer is crucial. Understanding liability and pursuing monetary damages can help you fully recover from your injuries and move forward with your life.
By working with the knowledgeable legal professionals at The Kryder Law Group, you could navigate the complex legal process, establish the dog owner’s fault, and obtain fair compensation for your losses. Call now to speak with a dedicated lawyer willing to fight for your rights and advocate for your best interests.
(312) 223-1700