Injured by a Dog? Our Dog Bite Lawyers Are Ready to Help You!
Almost everyone loves dogs. They are like people and enrich our lives. But we often forget that dogs are still animals and at times, animals can cause injury to humans. While dog owners typically take responsibility for their pet’s actions, some do not, and whether willful or accidental, you will likely need the help of an experienced dog bite attorney if you have suffered an injury caused by a canine.
According to the centers for disease control, over 4,500,000 Americans suffer canine bites each year. Of those 20% receive injuries that require medical attention. In 2016 State Farm insurance paid out $14 million in damage claims for dog bite injuries in Illinois alone! Lawyers with dog bite lawsuit experience such as Raymond and Bridget Lawler in Marion, Illinois can help you take on the big insurance companies and collect what is rightfully yours.
Dogs often bite in public places or at events. You may be attending a special event like a concert at The Pavillion in Marion, a reunion at Ray Fosse Park, a BBQ cook off at Reservoir Park in Harrisburg etc. where guests are bringing their four legged family members. Remember – Dogs Can Bite! When dogs are in an unfamiliar locale around unfamiliar people ( like you! ) and especially when there is a lot of noise and activity, they can become scared and lash out. Dog bites can cause significant injury. That’s when you need a dog bite lawyer who can help you achieve justice.
When your child is bit by a dog the damage is not just physical.
When a child suffers an injury from a dog attack, only an experienced personal injury lawyer will be able to accurately project short and long-term damage and discover all the available sources to help pay those damages.
After the attack, a child may be further traumatized by having to undergo a series of painful shots or take medications with possible side effects.
Because of a dog bite, a child can be left with scars to the face, arm, neck or other body part. The scars may last a lifetime and subject the child to verbal abuse by classmates, problems in social settings, and isolation from friends and family.
Dog bite scars may lower a child’s self-esteem or otherwise cause emotional distress that never goes away. Child victims of dog attacks may require long-term mental health counseling for post-traumatic stress and recurrent nightmares.
If you need legal help with a dog bite or any type of animal bite, contact us for a free consultation about your case or potential case.
Frequently Asked Questions for Dog Bite Lawyers
It’s vital to pay attention to your body and how it responds to a dog bite. The size of the dog, the area you were bitten, and the severity of the incident can all vary.
However, if you see any of the following signs below, call a doctor immediately:
- Skin broken by the bite
- Bleeding that won’t stop
- Redness
- Swelling
- Pus
Symptoms such as redness or pus can signal that the wound is infected. If you have a weak immune system, you may want to seek medical attention immediately. If possible, bring along the dog’s immunization records.
If you or a loved one was bitten by a dog, this checklist can guide you on what steps to take and avoid:
- Do: Wash the wound with soap and water.
- Don’t: Try to catch the dog that bit you.
- Do: Watch for infection.
- Don’t: Let the owner leave without getting their contact information.
- Do: Get treated by a doctor.
- Don’t: Apply bandages to the wound.
- Do: Consult with a skilled dog bite lawyer as soon as possible.
According to the dog bite laws in Illinois, the owner of a dog is liable for any harm caused by that dog to a person acting peaceably who is at a location they can lawfully be. Thus, as long as you aren’t trespassing or provoking a dog, the owner is liable if it bites you.
Illinois law allows your dog injury lawyer to sue the owner of the dog for medical bills, pain and suffering, and other losses you suffer after a bite.
Unless the person your dog bit was trespassing on your property, attacking your dog, or provoking it, you are liable for their injuries, and they may file a lawsuit against you. At best, they may file an insurance claim against your homeowners or renters insurance.
To protect yourself from financial ruin, make sure to contact a dog bite lawyer at 616-889-4981 immediately after your dog bites someone.
The statute of limitations is two years for a dog bite in Illinois. However, it’s best to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible after a dog bite. With nerve damage and other common dog bite injuries, it can take months to fully determine how badly you were hurt.
If you wait too long, time might run out while you are assessing your injuries.