EXPERIENCED PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS
Chicago Dog Bite Lawyers
Award-Winning Personal Injury Attorneys for Victims of Dog Attacks in Chicago and Throughout Illinois
Dog bites and attacks can cause serious physical and emotional trauma, and in a bustling city like Chicago, these incidents are unfortunately not uncommon. Illinois law provides protections for victims, and if you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, you may be entitled to compensation. At John J. Malm & Associates, our experienced Chicago personal injury lawyers help victims of dog bites and attacks seek justice and recover compensation for their injuries.
Dog Bite Statistics in Chicago and Illinois
Dog attacks are a significant public health concern. According to the U.S. Postal Service, Chicago ranked #5 in the nation for dog attacks on postal workers in 2023, with 26 reported incidents. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 4.5 million dog bites occur each year in the United States, with nearly 800,000 requiring medical attention.
A 2021 report by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) indicated that there were over 6,000 dog bite cases reported in Illinois annually, with a sizable percentage occurring in Cook County and the greater Chicago area. Children aged 5–9 are the most common victims, often suffering bites to the face and neck.
What Victims Need to Know about Illinois Dog Bite Law
Illinois follows a strict liability rule under the Illinois Animal Control Act (510 ILCS 5/16). This means a dog owner is liable for injuries their dog causes, even if the dog had no prior history of aggression or biting.
To establish liability after a dog attack, a victim must prove:
- The dog attacked, attempted to attack, or injured the person
- The person did not provoke the dog
- The person was lawfully in the place where the bite occurred
Victims do not need to prove negligence. If the above elements are met, the dog owner is financially responsible for damages.
Common Injuries from Chicago Dog Bites
Dog bite injuries vary widely in severity. Some of the most common include:
1. Puncture Wounds and Lacerations
These are the most immediate and visible injuries after a dog attack. Dog teeth can pierce deep into tissue, causing bleeding and trauma.
2. Infections
Bites can introduce dangerous bacteria like Pasteurella, Staphylococcus, or Capnocytophaga, which can lead to serious infections. In some cases, hospitalization is required.
3. Scarring and Disfigurement
Victims, especially children, often suffer permanent scarring. Facial injuries can require reconstructive surgery and cause lasting emotional harm.
4. Nerve and Muscle Damage
Deep bites can injure muscles, tendons, and nerves, sometimes resulting in permanent loss of function.
5. Psychological Trauma
Fear, anxiety, and PTSD are common following a dog attack, particularly for children.
6. Rabies and Tetanus Risk
While rabies is rare in domestic dogs, unvaccinated animals still pose a risk. Prompt medical evaluation and prophylaxis are critical.
What to Do After a Dog Attack in Chicago
If you or someone you know is bitten or attacked by a dog:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention – Even minor bites can become infected.
- Report the Incident to Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC).
- Document the Injury – Take photos of the wounds, torn clothing, and the location of the attack.
- Get Witness Information – Names and contact information can be crucial.
- Identify the Dog and Owner – This helps with verifying rabies vaccinations and determining liability.
- Consult a Personal Injury Attorney – Legal counsel can ensure you receive fair compensation.
Contacting Chicago Animal Control After an Attack
In the event of a dog bite or aggressive animal encounter in Chicago, it is critical to contact Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC):
- Emergency Animal Services: (312) 747-1406 (24/7 response)
- Non-Emergency: 311 or use the CHI 311 mobile app or website: https://311.chicago.gov/
Chicago law requires that all bites be reported, and dogs involved in bites may be quarantined or evaluated depending on the circumstances.
Compensation for Chicago Dog Bite Victims
Victims of dog bites in Chicago may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
Punitive damages may also be available if the dog owner acted with willful disregard for public safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Chicago Dog Attacks
Q: Do I need to prove the dog had bitten someone before?
A: No. Under Illinois’ strict liability law, a dog’s past behavior is irrelevant to establishing liability.
Q: Can I sue if the dog bite happened in a public place?
A: Yes. If you were lawfully present and did not provoke the dog, you can seek damages.
Q: What if I was bitten on someone’s private property?
A: You can still recover damages if you were lawfully on the premises (e.g., a guest or delivery worker).
Q: Are landlords responsible if their tenant’s dog bites me?
A: Sometimes. If the landlord knew the dog was dangerous and failed to act, they may share liability.
Q: How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Illinois?
A: Generally, you have two years from the date of the bite to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Q: Can children sue for dog bites?
A: Yes. A parent or guardian can file a claim on behalf of a minor. In some cases, the statute of limitations may be extended until the child turns 18.
Q: What if the dog was a stray?
A: You may not be able to recover damages if there’s no identifiable owner, but the city may investigate for public health reasons.
Get Legal Help for a Dog Bite in Chicago – Call John J. Malm & Associates
Dog bites can be life-altering. If you or your child has been attacked, you don’t have to navigate the legal system alone. At John J. Malm & Associates, our experienced Chicago personal injury attorneys can help you:
- Investigate the incident
- Identify all liable parties
- Deal with insurance companies
- File your claim within deadlines
Don’t wait—your health, your rights, and your recovery depend on prompt action.
Contact the Top-Rated Chicago Dog Bite Lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates
Dog bites are traumatic and costly, but victims have legal protections under Illinois law. Understanding your rights and acting quickly can make a big difference in your recovery. Whether it’s a neighbor’s dog, a stranger’s pet, or an animal at large, you deserve to be safe—and compensated if you’ve been harmed. For more information or to speak with our award-winning Chicago dog attack attorneys, contact us today for a free consultation.