Can I Sue After My Neighbor's Dog Bit Me in Illinois?

 Posted on April 05, 2024 in Premises Liability

Receiving a dog bite from a neighbor's dog after you did nothing to provoke or trigger the dog may mean that your neighbor is liable for any expenses or damages that occurred. If you are considering suing to recover compensation, it is important to understand the serious consequences of a dog bite and your rights. An experienced Illinois dog bite lawyer can help guide you through Illinois premises liability laws and advocate for your rights as you pursue a claim.

The Costly Consequences of a Dog Bite

Dog bites can have serious consequences, and the expenses related to treating and recovering from a dog bite can be extensive. In some cases, dog bites can cause permanent disability, disfigurement, or wrongful death. Expenses you may need to deal with after receiving a dog bite include:

• Medical costs for hospital care, surgery, and medication
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy costs
• Mental healthcare or treatment
• Lost wages or loss of future earning potential
• Property damage

Many people dealing with a serious dog bite also find themselves suffering from emotional trauma or mental anguish, something that can follow them for the rest of their lives. In the case of disability or disfigurement from a dog bite, adaptive equipment may be an additional necessary cost.

Can I Sue After a Dog Bite?

Under the Illinois Animal Control Act, if you are bitten, attacked, or a dog attempts to attack you in a place where you are lawfully allowed to be, such as after being invited onto your neighbor's property. You did not provoke the dog in any way; the owner of the dog is liable for your injuries. The types of compensation that you may be able to receive include the cost of medical expenses, ongoing medical care, lost wages or loss of future employment, and damage for pain and suffering.

If you want to pursue a claim for compensation after being bitten by a neighbor's dog, your first step is to seek medical attention. Once you have been treated, gather all documentation about your medical expenses, your neighbor's insurance, and the incident's timeline, and speak to an experienced Illinois dog bite lawyer to learn more about your legal options.

Contact a Chicago, IL Dog Bite Lawyer

Dog bites are unfortunate incidents that can have incredibly serious consequences, including medical expenses and the potential for a long recovery process. In Illinois, you may be able to sue after being bitten by a dog, and a knowledgeable Chicago, IL, dog bite attorney can help guide you through this process.

At Winters Salzetta O'Brien & Richardson, LLC, our attorneys have a strong record of success representing clients who have suffered injuries, and we work to secure fair compensation for all of our clients and their unique situations. Call 312-236-6324 for a free consultation.