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Illinois Dog Bite Lawyers
We may call them man’s best friend, but due to their sharp teeth and sometimes unpredictable temperaments, dogs can feel like our worst enemy. The injuries they can cause can be serious enough to require medical treatment and may, unfortunately, result in severe damage. As a dog owner, one must accept liability when a family pet displays vicious behavior that results in pain and suffering. In the event that you or a loved one is hurt by a dog bite, it’s important to discuss the matter with a qualified premises liability lawyer.
At The Cates Law Firm, LLC, our Belleville dog bite lawyers have the compassion and experience necessary to handle even the most delicate cases following this kind of injury, so your rights are protected and you can obtain the compensation you deserve.
With a record of successfully achieving fair results for clients injured in dog attacks, if you’re the victim of a dog bite, call us at 618-277-3644 or online to schedule a free consultation.
What Illinois Says About Dog Bite Law
Illinois law dictates a dog owner’s liability if his/her animal attacks and injures a person without provocation if the victim is in any place where he or she lawfully has the right to be. Furthermore, the law states the injuries for which a dog owner is liable are not limited to bites alone. Rather, an owner can be held responsible for any injury that results from a dog’s behavior, like causing someone to fall because a dog unexpectedly jumps on the person.
The State of Illinois largely abides by a legal theory called, “strict liability” when determining the outcome of dog bite cases. This means a dog owner cannot contest liability on the grounds that they had no warning the dog would behave in such an aggressive manner. Illinois law maintains a dog owner’s responsibility for a dog’s actions even if that individual was unaware the animal would cause personal injury.
While a dog owner is liable in most instances, two primary defenses may exempt him/her. For one, the law does not protect a dog bite victim if that individual provoked a dog by teasing or hurting the animal. Also, a trespasser on private property without permission has little grounds for recourse if a dog bites because the law states a dog owner’s liability is dependent on the victim’s lawful right to be where the attack occurred.
Possible Recoverable Damages
A dog owner is responsible for the medical costs of the injured person, and this may include the past, present, and future medical bills. In addition, a lawsuit allows recovery for a victim’s lost income both from treating the immediate injury and any future lost income. Someone may also receive compensation for pain and suffering, property damage, and loss of consortium, i.e., loss of a family relationship.
Contact the Illinois Dog Bite Lawyers With The Cates Law Firm
The Cates Law Firm, LLC stands out among Illinois dog bite lawyers because we know how to handle these complicated situations to get victims what they rightfully deserve. We are successful because we are committed to helping people exercise their legal rights when they incur damages through no fault of their own. We have skillfully argued for those hurt in various types of cases, including dog bites, and have a proven track record of results on our clients’ behalf.
We can help you seek damages against a dog owner if either you or a loved one were hurt because an animal unexpectedly and viciously attacked. Let us help you determine your rights and how to receive fair and just compensation for your injuries.
We serve individuals and families across Southern Illinois and the Metro East region, from St. Louis to the Indiana border, including the communities of Belleville, Carbondale, East St. Louis, Granite City, Edwardsville, Chester, Waterloo, Madison County, St. Clair County, Monroe County, and Randolph County. Call us at 618-277-3644 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.