EXPERIENCED PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS
Will County, Illinois Dog Bite Lawyers
Top-Rated Attorneys for Victims Attacked by Dogs in Bolingbrook, Romeoville, and Joliet
Dog bites and attacks are a serious public health concern across the country, and Will County, Illinois, is no exception. Each year, millions of people are bitten by dogs in the U.S., and many require emergency medical treatment. In some cases, the injuries are severe or even fatal. Illinois ranks among the top states for dog bite claims, and Will County, home to cities like Joliet, Bolingbrook, and Plainfield, has seen its share of these dangerous incidents. At John J. Malm & Associates, we help victims of dog bites and animal attacks understand their legal rights and pursue the compensation they deserve under Illinois law.
National and Illinois Dog Bite Statistics
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur each year in the United States, with nearly 800,000 requiring medical care. Children are especially at risk, often suffering bites to the head and face. Illinois consistently ranks near the top of the list when it comes to the number of dog bite insurance claims. In 2016, State Farm reported paying out over $14 million across 323 dog bite claims in Illinois—more than any other state except California. The average payout per claim in Illinois that year was over $43,000. These figures underscore the serious nature of dog bite injuries and the importance of holding negligent dog owners accountable.
Will County Animal Control Laws and Procedures
In Will County, dog bites are governed by both state law and local ordinances. Under the Illinois Animal Control Act (510 ILCS 5/1 et seq.), dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their animals if the victim was lawfully on the property and did not provoke the dog. This means a victim does not have to prove that the dog had a history of aggression or that the owner acted negligently. The law is designed to protect the public and encourage responsible dog ownership.
Locally, Will County Animal Control enforces procedures when a bite occurs. If a dog bites a person, it must be confined and observed for ten days to monitor for signs of rabies. If the dog is current on its rabies vaccinations, it may be quarantined at home under veterinary supervision. If it is not vaccinated, the animal must be confined at a veterinary facility. Failure to comply with these requirements can lead to additional penalties and impoundment of the animal.
Will County also designates dogs as “dangerous” or “vicious” if they exhibit aggressive behavior, even if they have not bitten anyone before. Once a dog is designated as dangerous, the owner must comply with additional safety requirements, such as using a muzzle in public or keeping the dog confined behind a secure fence. These designations are based on investigations by the Will County Animal Control Department and can be appealed through an administrative process.
Why Dog Bites Happen
There are many reasons why dogs bite. Often, bites occur because the dog is startled, scared, or provoked. However, many attacks happen without warning and are not the victim’s fault. Poor training, irresponsible ownership, and failure to control the dog in public are common factors. Certain breeds are statistically more likely to be involved in serious attacks, but any dog can bite under the right (or wrong) circumstances.
In Will County, many dog bite incidents occur when dogs are allowed to roam freely or are not leashed in public. Others happen in private homes when dogs are not properly introduced to guests or when young children are left unsupervised around animals. Dog owners have a duty to control their pets and to warn others of potential dangers. When they fail to do so, and someone gets hurt, they can be held legally and financially responsible.
Common Injuries from Will County Dog Bites
Dog bites can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor puncture wounds to life-threatening trauma. The severity of the injury often depends on the size and strength of the dog, the location of the bite, and the age and health of the victim. Common dog bite injuries include:
- Deep lacerations and puncture wounds
- Broken bones or crushed tissue
- Nerve damage
- Facial disfigurement and scarring
- Infections, including MRSA and sepsis
- Rabies (in rare, unvaccinated cases)
- Psychological trauma, including anxiety and PTSD
Children and older adults are especially vulnerable. In some cases, reconstructive surgery or long-term physical therapy may be necessary. Emotional trauma is also a significant concern, particularly for young victims who develop a lasting fear of dogs.
What to Do After a Dog Bite in Will County, Illinois
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Will County, take the following steps:
- Get medical attention immediately. Even minor bites can become infected.
- Report the incident to Will County Animal Control or your local police department.
- Identify the dog and its owner, and gather their contact information.
- Take photos of your injuries, the dog, and the location of the attack.
- Document all medical treatment and expenses.
- Avoid discussing the incident with the dog owner’s insurance company until you’ve spoken to a lawyer.
Prompt action protects your health, creates a formal record of the incident, and strengthens your potential legal claim.
Illinois Dog Bite Laws and Compensation
Illinois’ strict liability rule makes it easier for victims to recover damages after a dog bite. After a dog attack in Will County, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Emergency room and hospital bills
- Ongoing medical treatment or rehabilitation
- Lost wages or diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma and mental anguish
- Disfigurement or permanent scarring
If the dog has been previously classified as dangerous or the owner violated local leash laws, you may also be entitled to punitive damages, especially in cases involving gross negligence.
Dog Bite Claims and Insurance in Will County
In many dog bite cases, compensation is paid through the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), dog bites and other dog-related injuries accounted for over one-third of all homeowners’ liability claim dollars paid out in 2023, totaling nearly $1.1 billion. The average cost per dog bite claim in the U.S. was $58,545 in 2023, up 31.7% from 2022.
In Illinois, insurance companies typically handle the claim, negotiate settlements, and pay damages up to the policy limits. However, insurance companies are motivated to minimize payouts, and it is not uncommon for them to delay, deny, or undervalue legitimate claims. This is why it is crucial to have a knowledgeable Will County dog attack attorney advocating on your behalf.
Skilled Legal Representation Makes a Difference After A Dog Bite in Will County
Hiring an experienced Will County dog bite attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. A lawyer can help you gather evidence, interview witnesses, obtain animal control records, and calculate the full extent of your damages. At John J. Malm & Associates, we have successfully handled dog bite claims across Will County and the greater Chicago area. Our team is familiar with the tactics insurance companies use to avoid liability, and we fight to ensure our clients receive the compensation they need to recover and move forward.
In one recent case, we secured compensation for a child who suffered facial scarring after being bitten by a neighbor’s dog. In another case, we represented an elderly woman who was bitten by two corgis while walking in her neighborhood. Each case is different, but our commitment to our clients remains the same.
“Far too often, dog attacks are the result of negligent pet ownership—failing to leash a dog, ignoring dangerous behavior, or allowing aggressive animals near children. When that negligence causes harm, the law allows victims to seek justice. Our job is to make sure they receive it.”— Will County dog attack attorney John J. Malm
Frequently Asked Questions about Will County Dog Bite Cases
Q: What if the dog that bit me had never shown aggression before?
A: Under Illinois law, the owner is still liable. The Animal Control Act imposes strict liability, so the dog’s history doesn’t matter as long as you were lawfully present and didn’t provoke the dog.
Q: Do I need to report a dog bite in Will County?
A: Yes. All dog bites must be reported to Will County Animal Control or your local law enforcement agency. Reporting helps ensure the dog is properly quarantined and protects others from future attacks.
Q: What if the dog’s owner doesn’t have insurance?
A: You may still be able to recover damages directly from the owner. In some cases, alternative insurance or legal remedies may apply. An experienced attorney can evaluate your options.
Q: How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a dog bite?
A: In Illinois, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the incident. However, it’s best to act quickly while the evidence is still fresh.
Q: Can I sue if I was bitten while visiting someone’s home?
A: Yes. Even if you were a guest, the owner is responsible for keeping you safe. Homeowner’s insurance typically applies in these situations.
Q: What if my child was bitten?
A: You can bring a legal claim on behalf of your child. Courts often take child injuries especially seriously, particularly in cases involving facial wounds or emotional trauma.
Contact the Dedicated Will County Dog Bite Attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates
At John J. Malm & Associates, we are committed to helping victims of dog bites and attacks get the justice they deserve. Dog bite injuries can be painful, traumatic, and life-changing, but you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. Our experienced Will County personal injury lawyers will investigate the incident, handle communication with the insurance company, and fight for full and fair compensation on your behalf.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack, don’t wait to take action. Illinois law limits the amount of time you have to file a claim, and evidence can quickly disappear. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re here to help you understand your rights and hold negligent dog owners accountable.