Dog Bites
Dog attacks can cause painful injuries, long-term physical damage, and lasting emotional distress. In Chicago, dog bites often happen in neighborhoods, parks, apartment complexes, or private residences, sometimes involving dogs with known behavioral issues. These incidents can leave victims facing costly medical treatment, missed time from work, and emotional trauma.
A dog bite lawyer can help victims hold negligent dog owners accountable. Legal representation allows you to pursue compensation for emergency care, follow-up treatment, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An attorney can also step in to handle communication with insurance companies, protect your rights, and help prevent low settlement offers that don’t reflect the full impact of your injuries.
At Rudich Law, we represent individuals throughout the Chicago area who dog bites have seriously injured. With decades of experience in personal injury law, we understand the physical and financial toll these injuries can take. Our firm is committed to providing clear, practical legal guidance and fighting for fair results.
What to Know About Dog Bite Laws in Illinois
Under Illinois law, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries their pets cause, even if the dog has never shown signs of aggression. The law protects individuals who were lawfully on the property and did not provoke the animal. This means a victim does not need to prove negligence—only that the bite occurred under qualifying conditions.
Dog bite injuries may include puncture wounds, infections, nerve damage, scarring, and psychological trauma. Children are particularly at risk for severe injuries and may require extended care or counseling. A dog bite attorney helps ensure that your claim includes immediate and long-term medical needs.
We work with clients to gather all available evidence, including medical documentation, witness accounts, and incident reports. If the dog’s owner or insurer tries to delay, deny, or downplay the claim, we push for a fair and timely resolution.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Illinois?
Illinois gives dog bite victims two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Do I need to show that the dog had bitten someone before?
No. Illinois does not require any prior incidents to hold the owner liable under the state’s strict liability statute.
Can a landlord be held responsible for a tenant’s dog?
Yes, in some cases. If a landlord knew the dog posed a danger and failed to take action, they may share responsibility for the injury.
What compensation can I recover in a dog bite case?
Compensation may include medical expenses, future treatment costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any permanent disfigurement or emotional trauma caused by the attack.
Legal Support After a Dog Attack
The effects of a dog bite go beyond physical pain. Victims often face overwhelming medical bills, missed income, and lasting emotional harm. You shouldn’t have to deal with those burdens alone.
Rudich Law provides experienced legal representation for dog bite victims in Chicago and nearby areas. We carefully assess each case, protect your rights, and work toward compensation that reflects the full extent of your injuries.
If a dog has bitten you or a loved one, contact us today. You can also view our practice areas or learn more about Attorney Roger D. Rudich and the services we provide across the Chicago area.
