If a dog has bitten you or your child in Chicago, you need skilled legal help. At Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C., we’ve helped countless dog bite victims get fair compensation for their injuries.
Canine attacks frequently lead to serious bodily harm and emotional distress. Medical bills pile up fast, and you might miss work during your recovery. You shouldn’t have to pay for someone else’s failure to control their dog.
Consult for free with an experienced dog bite attorney from Willens & Baez. Call us today at (312) 957-4166.
Illinois Dog Bite Laws Protect Victims
Illinois has strict liability laws for dog owners. This means owners are responsible for injuries their dogs cause, even if the dog never showed aggression before.
Under the Illinois Animal Control Act, dog owners are liable when:
- Their dog attacks or injures a person
- The person had a legal right to be where the attack happened
- The person did not provoke the dog.
This law makes it easier for victims to recover damages compared to states that follow the “one bite rule.” The one-bite rule generally reduces liability for pet owners if it’s the first time their dog has attacked someone. However, this rule does not apply in Illinois, a strict liability state.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bites can cause various injuries, from minor to life-threatening:
- Puncture wounds and lacerations
- Broken bones
- Nerve damage
- Infections (including rabies, tetanus, and MRSA)
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Emotional trauma and PTSD.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, infection occurs in about 5 to 20% of dog bites, making prompt medical care crucial.
Dog Bite Statistics in Chicago and Beyond
Dog bites happen more often than many people think:
- About 4.5 million people get bitten by a dog each year in the United States, according to the Insurance Information Institute.
- Illinois ranks second in the US for dog bite insurance claims. According to the Insurance Information Institute, Illinois saw 931 dog bite claims in a recent year, totaling approximately $31.1 million in payouts. The average cost per claim was $33,385.
- Children ages 5 to 9 have the highest rate of dog bite injuries, according to the CDC.
- According to State Farm and the Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I), homeowners insurers lost $570 million in 2024 as a result of liability claims involving dog attacks and other dog-related incidents.
Compensation Available for Dog Bite Victims
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Chicago, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (including future treatments)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Therapy and counseling costs.
Insurance typically covers these claims through the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy.
Why Choose Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C. for Your Dog Bite Case
Matthew Willens and his team at Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers bring over 30 years of experience fighting for injury victims in Chicago.
Our approach to dog bite cases stands out because:
- We thoroughly investigate each case, gathering evidence like medical records, witness statements, and animal control reports.
- We work with medical experts to document your injuries and future treatment needs.
- We handle insurance companies so you can focus on recovery.
- We prepare every case as if it will go to trial.
- We have recovered millions for injury victims throughout Illinois.
Matthew Willens has been recognized as a Top 100 Trial Lawyer and has earned the highest possible ratings from legal peers for his skill and ethics.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Chicago
- Get medical attention right away, even for seemingly minor bites.
- Report the bite to Chicago Animal Care and Control at 312-747-1406.
- Identify the dog owner and get their contact and insurance information.
- Take photos of your injuries.
- Keep all medical records and receipts.
- Avoid discussing your case with insurance adjusters.
- Contact an experienced dog bite lawyer.
Your Questions About Dog Bite Cases Answered
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Illinois?
In Illinois, you generally have two years from the dog bite date to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline or time limit, called the statute of limitations, makes it important to talk to a lawyer soon after your injury.
What if the dog has never bitten anyone before?
Unlike some states, Illinois doesn’t follow the “one bite rule.” Dog owners are liable for injuries their dogs cause regardless of the dog’s history.
Can I get compensation if I was bitten at a friend’s house?
Certainly. Most dog bite settlements are handled through the owner’s homeowner’s insurance coverage instead of direct payment from the owner. You can pursue compensation without creating personal conflict.
What happens when the dog owner lacks insurance coverage?
If the owner doesn’t have insurance, we can explore other options such as pursuing the owner’s personal assets or identifying other liable parties like property owners or landlords.
Contact Our Top-Rated Chicago Dog Bite Lawyers Today
Dog bite injuries can change your life. Medical bills, lost work time, and emotional trauma shouldn’t be your burden when someone else’s dog caused your injury.
Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C. has a proven track record of success across all personal injury cases. Willens & Baez secured a $1.55 million settlement for a woman who was attacked by a dog while on a walk.
Contact Willens & Baez Personal Injury Lawyers, P.C. at 312-957-4166 today for your free consultation.
