Dog Bites & Attacks

In Illinois, if a dog or another animal attacks, attempts to attack, or injures a person, the owner of the animal is liable for the bite’s full amount of the injury. The person must be peaceably conducting himself or herself in a place where he or she may lawfully be and cannot provoke the animal.

It is very important for pet owners to pay close attention to their animals. However, when an animal does bite or injures another person, the owners are responsible for the damages. Under the Illinois Animal Control Act, all animal owners, including dog owners, have responsibilities to other people. Dog owners no longer have a “one free bite” rule under Illinois law. Even if a dog has never bitten anyone before, the owner may be held responsible for the harm his or her dog causes.

Damages for mental pain and suffering may be a proper element of damages, as long as these injuries are connected with a physical injury.

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a dog bite, or animal attack that has resulted in significant medical treatment, please consult the Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd to find out whether you can recover for your injuries and damages against the dog’s owner.