Holding Individuals and Businesses Responsible for Injuries Caused by a Dog Bite

 Posted on October 25, 2017 in Blog Post

Though the weather is changing, as it always does to pronounced effect in Chicago this time of year, some beer gardens and back patios remain open to patrons. Such outdoor areas are popular with individuals who enjoy bringing a canine friend to watch the game with under darkening autumn skies. For public safety, importantly, both pet owners and businesses that allow pets on the premises have a responsibility to protect patrons from harm. When that responsibility is abrogated, an experienced Park Ridge personal injury attorney is there for you.

Dog Bites Are Often the Result of the Negligence of a Person or Business

Most dogs are friendly, lovable creatures. But some, whether as a result of nature, a history of trauma, or fear aggression brought on by a stressful environment, may bite, lunge, or run. A dog bite, especially by a large and powerful breed, can cause serious injuries. In addition, a lunging or sprinting dog, when making contact, may cause a slip or fall that results in injuries. When either scenario, a dog bite or dog-related slip and fall occurs, it is only right the dog owner be held responsible for the harms caused by the animal.

In addition, a business may also be held responsible if it is failed to take necessary precautions to protect its patrons from bites and falls. Such a failure is what is legally termed “negligence.” Negligence is the breach of a duty owed that causes damages. Dog owners owe a duty, and business owners owe an elevated duty arising from the fact that they are inviting the public onto their premises to purchase food, beverages, and other goods and services.

Obtaining Legal Damages for the Harm Caused by Another’s Negligent Conduct

If you have sustained injuries resulting from a dog bite in the Chicago area, contact an experienced Park Ridge personal injury attorney. An experienced attorney will work to obtain any damages you are entitled to for your injuries, pain and suffering, medical bills, damage to personal property, and lost income due to missed work.

Sources:

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=1865&ChapterID=50

https://portal.chicagopolice.org/portal/page/portal/ClearPath/Communities/Districts/District19