What Can I Do If My Child Was Attacked by a Neighbor’s Dog in Illinois?

 Posted on September 20, 2021 in Blog Post

Dog bites can be serious matters, especially when children are the victim. Because children are smaller and less able to protect themselves against an attacking dog, their injuries can be severe and even life-threatening. Millions of people are bitten by dogs each year in the United States, and many victims of dog bites require medical treatment.

In this article, we will look at some of the consequences of dog bites and what legal remedies may be available to victims. If your child has been attacked or bitten by a neighbor’s dog in Illinois, contact a personal injury attorney right away to find out more about your options under Illinois law.

Who is Responsible for a Dog Bite in Illinois?

Illinois law has a statute specifically to address the responsibility of pets that attack, try to attack, or injure people. The statute provides that a victim of a dog bite can bring a claim for civil damages against the owner or caregiver of the dog for the full amount of the injury, as long as the dog was not provoked and the victim was in a place where he or she was legally allowed to be.

Physical and Emotional Damages

Children who are victims of dog bites can suffer serious physical injuries as a result of the bite. These include, but are not limited to bruising, lacerations, puncture wounds, scarring and disfigurement, broken bones, nerve damage, infections, and more.

Furthermore, serious dog bites frequently cause major emotional consequences, such as PTSD. Children attacked by dogs may experience severe trauma and develop a lifelong fear of dogs. They may have trouble sleeping, eating, and doing other things they previously enjoyed. They may be less willing to go out in public for fear that such an attack will happen again.

What Should I Do if My Child is Bitten By a Dog?

If the bite can be treated by first aid at home, do so right away. Stop or slow any bleeding by applying light pressure with a clean cloth. It is crucial to clean and anesthetize the wound so it does not get infected. If the wound is deep, bleeding extensively, or has other discharge, seek medical attention immediately. Make sure to document any available evidence, including pictures of the dog, the location, and the wound.

Speak with a Des Plaines Dog Bite Attorney

At Quinn Law Group, LLC, we understand that keeping your child safe is of utmost importance. If your child has been injured by a dog bite, contact a Park Ridge personal injury attorney right away. We will help you understand whether you have a legal case against the dog owner and fight for your right to compensation for the pain and suffering your child endured. Schedule a free consultation by calling our office today at 847-232-7180.

Sources:

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=1704

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=051000050K16