Dog bites lawyer Bloomington IL | How to file a dog bite claim

What is a dog bite case? A dog bite case is any personal injury claim that results from a dog attacking someone, including the owner of the dog. If you’ve been injured by a dog and want to pursue a claim, contact our dog bites lawyer Bloomington IL today at 309-820-0600. Our experienced attorneys at Kelly & Castagna have the knowledge and resources to pursue justice on your behalf.

Steps for a dog bite claim in Illinois

To file a dog bite claim in Illinois, there are several important steps you should follow. 

• First, seek immediate medical attention for your injuries. Dog bite injuries can be serious and may require medical treatment, so it is essential to prioritize your health and well-being. 
• After seeking medical care, gather as much evidence as possible to support your claim. This can include taking photographs of the injuries, documenting any torn or bloody clothing, and obtaining contact information from any witnesses present during the incident. This information will also be important for your dog bites lawyer Bloomington IL to have. 
• Next, it is crucial to report the dog bite to the appropriate authorities. In Illinois, dog bites must be reported to the local animal control agency or police department. By reporting the incident, you create an official record of the incident, which can be important for your claim. Additionally, it helps protect others from potential future attacks by the same dog.
• Finally, it is highly recommended to consult with a personal injury attorney who specializes in dog bite cases. A dog bites lawyer Bloomington IL can guide you through the legal process, help analyze your case, and ensure your rights are protected. Our legal team can help you determine the extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Additionally, we will help you navigate the complex legal requirements surrounding dog bite claims in Illinois.

It is important to note that Illinois law follows a strict liability statute when it comes to dog bite claims. According to Illinois statute 510 ILCS 5/16, the owner of a dog is liable for any injuries caused by their dog, even if the owner did not know about the dog’s propensity to bite. This means that as the victim, you do not have to prove that the owner was negligent or at fault for the incident. However, it is still necessary to follow the proper legal procedures to ensure your claim is properly handled and you receive the compensation you deserve.

Money available for a dog bite claim

The amount of money available in a dog bite claim depends on the injuries and other factors. These may include: the breed, age, and temperament of the dog; whether or not the victim was attacked by more than one dog; and the history of aggression exhibited by this particular animal. 

Although compensation varies depending on the severity of injuries, payouts have been on the rise. According to the Illinois State Bar Association, in a twelve year period there was a 94% payout increase for dog bite claims. In Illinois, there has been a 7% increase in dog bite claims, which is higher than most other states. 

Illinois is one of the top ten states for number of dog bite claims filed, cost per claim, and the value of the claims. Typically, homeowners insurance and renters insurance will cover legal liability expenses up to a certain point. If you need support filing your personal injury claim, contact our dog bites lawyer Bloomington IL for support. The negotiation and litigation skills of our team have allowed us to recover just compensation for our clients and ensure their futures are secure. 

Contact our dog bites lawyer Bloomington IL for a consultation

If you have been injured by a dog, contact Kelly & Castagna to discuss your situation. You should seek medical attention, report the attack to the police, gather all available information and preserve any evidence you have, then call our dog bites lawyer Bloomington IL to discuss your case. 

Do not talk to the dog owner or their insurance company without a lawyer. They will not look after your best interests and you may accidentally waive your rights to sue. If you or your loved one has been bitten by a dog, contact our dog bites lawyer Bloomington IL today. The injury attorneys at Kelly & Castagna have developed a thorough understanding of the complexities of medical conditions that occur as a result of a variety of accidents and are devoted to assisting you.