If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite wound, you may want to know do you have to report a dog bite in Illinois. Yes, by Illinois law, (510 ILCS 5/13). If an animal bites someone, the owner must have it examined by a vet within 24 hours for a checkup, rabies vaccination, and microchipping, and submit a report. Authorities and the bitten person are notified if rabies is confirmed.
In this situation, an experienced dog bite lawyer from our law firm, can review your animal bite case and help you understand your rights under Illinois law.
Reporting a Dog Bite in Illinois
What Illinois Laws Apply to Dog Bites?
Illinois is a strict liability state (510 ILCS 5/16). In Illinois, dog owners are liable for any damages or injuries caused by their pets, regardless of awareness of aggressive tendencies. Owners are responsible if an incident occurs in a public place or the victim had permission to be on private property and did not provoke the dog. The state also has laws to manage dangerous and vicious dogs.
How Many Dog Bites Occur in Illinois?
In a report by the Chicago Sun-Times, 2023, Illinois ranked eighth in the country in dog bite claims. Insurance companies paid more than $61.8 million for 837 dog-related injury claims, with an average payout of $73,797.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), in 2022, the U.S. reported 3,579 rabies animal cases, often contracted from a wild animal.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
If you have been bitten by a dog, here are the steps you should take:
- Most animal bites are minor bites; wash them with mild soap and apply antibiotic ointment. Then, seek medical attention for a tetanus shot.
- Collect the dog’s owner’s name, contact info, and vaccination details.
- Report dog bite incidents to comply with Illinois law and notify local animal control or health authorities.
- Document injuries by photographing them and keeping related medical records.
- Consult a personal injury lawyer to ensure fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Who Is at Greatest Risk of Being a Victim of a Dog Bite?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most dog bites victimize children between the ages of 5 and 9 years old are at the highest risk for dog bites. Seniors and mail carriers are also commonly victims of dog attacks.
When Is a Dog Bite Injury a Valid Personal Injury Claim?
To have a valid personal injury claim for a dog bite, you must prove that the dog’s owner was negligent in controlling their pet or did not take reasonable measures to prevent dog bites. This can include failing to leash or restrain their dog in public places or allowing aggressive behavior to go unchecked.
What Damages Can I Recover from a Dog Bite Injury Claim?
Dog bite cases often involve damages beyond medical expenses, such as lost wages, pain and suffering, infection and significant disfigurement and scarring. Unlike clean lacerations, bite wounds can be irregular and challenging to treat, potentially leading to permanent, life-altering scars. In fatal attacks, surviving family members may also be able to pursue compensation through a wrongful death claim.
Should I File a Dog Bite Insurance Claim?
First, see if the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance covers bites, as many do. Collect medical records and photos of your dogs bite injuries to support your claim. A personal injury lawyer experienced in dog bites can help ensure fair compensation.
What If the Insurance Company Denies My Claim?
An insurance company might deny a claim if payments aren’t current, the dog is newly adopted and unlisted, the owner moved without informing the insurer, or if the dog was provoked. Insurance companies might accept liability but refuse fair reimbursement. In that case, legal counsel can help negotiate a fair settlement.
How Can a Lawyer Help Me?
At The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers, we offer legal representation to fight for your rights and help you recover maximum compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation.
(312) 223-1700