Elgin Dog Bite Lawyer
Getting bitten by an animal can be traumatic, especially if the owner of the animal refuses to acknowledge their role in the attack. Contrary to what many believe, animal attacks in America, especially dog attacks, are fairly common. Also, severe attacks can result in life-threatening injuries.
Luckily for victims in Illinois, an Elgin dog bite lawyer may be able to help them get the financial compensation they deserve. Pet owners are responsible for the actions of their pets, and the victim of an attack should never have to pay for the negligence of another person. Contact a dedicated injury attorney for help building your claim today.
What Should You Do After an Attack?
Contacting an Elgin dog bite lawyer is of the utmost importance, but immediately after an attack, people should seek medical treatment. If people wait too late to do this, they could face infection, permanent injury, or possibly death if the animal was afflicted with a contagious disease.
When meeting with a lawyer, people will need to provide the name of the owner and details surrounding the attack.
Keep all medical records, and it can even help to take pictures of the bite marks and attack area. If others were present at the time of the attack, victims should take their names as well. The more evidence amassed, the more likely a person is to win their case.
Establishing Liability in a Dog Bite Case
An Elgin dog bite lawyer will be responsible for proving that the owner is responsible for its actions. In regards to animal attacks, there are two distinct types of liability:
- Strict Liability. The owner is legally responsible for the actions of their pets, even if they didn’t know that their pet was a threat.
- Limited Liability. The owner only has liability if aware that the pet in question exhibited dangerous propensities. They knew their dog was dangerous but continually failed to take the proper precautions.
Fortunately for victims in this area, Illinois adheres to the strict liability doctrine when it comes to animal attacks. This means that a lawyer will only need to prove that:
- An injury at the hands of the animal
- Lastly, no provocation of the animal
The owners of a pet are not the only party responsible for an attack. If owned by a kennel or other responsible party at the time of the attack, these individuals could have responsibility.
If a minor owns the dog, the parents may have responsibilty. Landlords or property owners can also be held liable if an attack occurred on one of the properties. Landlords have a legal obligation to prevent dangerous animals from inhabiting their properties. If they do not take this obligation seriously, an Elgin dog bite lawyer may be able to hold them liable in court.
Learn More From an Elgin Dog Bite Lawyer
Attacked by an animal? An Elgin dog bite lawyer may be able to get you compensation for your pain and also suffering.
By working with our established law firm, you will gain access to years of legal experience. Learn more about our legal approach to dog bite cases by contacting our law firm today.