Springfield, IL Dog Bite Attorneys
Sangamon County Law Firm Fighting for Dog Bite Victims
According to a report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association, an estimated 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year in the United States. Being bitten by a dog can be a very frightening experience, and it can lead to both physical and emotional trauma. You generally have the right to compensation for your resulting bills, and, depending on the circumstances of the incident, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit and pursue additional damages from the dog’s owner.
At Haxel Law, we are ready to fight for dog bite victims and hold negligent dog owners accountable. Our team includes multiple attorneys with insurance industry experience, meaning we know the tactics insurers use to limit what you recover. We are also familiar with how Illinois’s somewhat complex dog bite laws can affect these claims and can leverage that knowledge to get you the compensation you deserve.
If you were recently bitten by a dog, do not wait to explore your legal options with our Springfield, IL, dog bite lawyers. Contact us online or call (217) 215-4166 to schedule a free consultation today.
Understanding Illinois’s Dog Bite Laws
Illinois is a “strict liability” state when it comes to dog bites. This means that the dog owner is automatically liable for medical damages when their dog injures someone else, regardless of whether they had any idea their pet was capable of causing harm.
There are two important exceptions to this strict liability rule. The dog owner is not liable if you were trespassing at the time of the attack or if you provoked the dog into attacking you. Otherwise, if a dog bit, scratched, or knocked you over, you likely have a case for recovering compensation for any medical bills. You don’t have to prove negligence, and it does not matter if the dog previously didn’t have a history of hurting anyone.
If you are looking to recover compensation for damages beyond medical expenses, you do have to prove the owner acted negligently. If an off-leash dog bit you while you were in a Springfield park, for example, the owner could be considered negligent, as dogs are required to be leashed while in the area’s parks unless they are in a designated off-leash dog park.
When Is a Dog Considered “Dangerous” or “Vicious” in Illinois?
It may be easier to establish negligence if the dog that attacked you is considered “dangerous” or “vicious” under the state’s Animal Control Act. A dog could be found to be “dangerous” if it represents a serious and imminent threat of serious injury or death when off its owner’s property or if it bites a person without justification and does not cause a serious injury.
When a dog is considered dangerous (which requires a preponderance of evidence, meaning it is more likely dangerous than not), its owner must meet several additional requirements. These include taking the dog to an expert who can help train and treat the animal. The owner (or another adult at least 18 years of age) must also publicly supervise a dangerous dog when the animal is not on the owner’s property, and it may be required to wear a muzzle when in public. If the owner fails to meet any of these requirements, they could be found negligent and liable for any harm a subsequent bite causes.
Vicious dogs are subject to even stricter requirements. A dog is considered vicious if it has seriously injured or killed someone or if it has met the criteria for being a dangerous dog on three separate occasions. Vicious dogs must wear a muzzle when not in an appropriate enclosure. Again, if a vicious dog harms you and the owner failed to meet the applicable requirements, they could be considered negligent.
Note that a dog cannot be considered dangerous or vicious if they attack someone in any of the following circumstances:
- The dog bite victim was trespassing at the time of the attack.
- The dog bite victim was assaulting, abusing, or threatening the animal or its offspring at time of the attack.
- The dog bite victim had assaulted, abused, or threatened the animal or its offspring in the past.
- The dog was reacting to an injury.
- The dog was defending itself, its owner, its offspring, or another household member at the time of the attack.
We Know Illinois’s Dog Bite Laws and Can Help Ascertain Liability After an Attack
The state’s dog bite laws are nuanced, and it may not be clear if a dog is formally considered dangerous or vicious in the immediate aftermath of an attack. That’s why consulting a legal professional is so important. Our dog bite attorneys in Springfield, IL, can investigate the animal that attacked you and determine if the owner acted negligently. Then, we can walk you through your legal options and help you seek every dollar you deserve.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Common injuries sustained from dog bites include:
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Puncture WoundsThese occur when a dog’s teeth penetrate the skin, often creating small, deep holes. Though they might not look severe, puncture wounds can introduce bacteria deep into the tissue, leading to infection if not properly cleaned and treated.
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LacerationsWhen a dog bite results in cuts or tears to the skin, it is classified as a laceration. These can be superficial or extend deep into the muscles and nerves, causing significant bleeding and requiring stitches to properly heal.
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Crushing InjuriesLarger breeds with strong jaws might cause crushing injuries, where the force of the bite damages underlying tissues without necessarily breaking the skin. These injuries can lead to bruises, nerve damage, and, in some cases, broken bones.
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InfectionsOne of the most common complications from dog bites is an infection. Bacteria can enter the wound during the bite, making it crucial to clean the injury thoroughly and monitor for redness, swelling, or pus.
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ScarringScarring is a potential outcome of any dog bite injury, particularly if the wound is deep or not properly cared for. In some cases, victims may require cosmetic procedures to reduce or remove noticeable scars.
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Nerve damageSevere bites can lead to nerve damage, affecting sensation and movement in the impacted area. This type of injury might require long-term rehabilitation to regain full function.
Compensation for Dog Bite Injuries in Illinois
When a dog owner’s negligence leads to a bite or attack, you can seek compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages refer to tangible, quantifiable losses that result directly from the injury, while non-economic damages encompass more subjective impacts that are not as easily quantifiable. If you cannot prove negligence, you can only seek compensation for medical expenses.
In Illinois dog bite cases involving negligence, we can fight to get you compensation for all applicable losses, including:
- Medical bills
- Lost income
- Lost earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Disability
- Property damage (such as damaged clothing or a broken watch)
- Disfigurement
What Are Some of the Long-Term Impacts of Dog Bite Injuries?
It’s also important to consider the potential long-term consequences of a dog bite. These long-term effects can manifest both physically and psychologically, affecting the individual’s well-being and quality of life.
One potential long-term impact is chronic pain, which can persist long after the initial bite has healed. This pain may result from nerve damage, scar tissue formation, or complications during the healing process. Individuals may require ongoing pain management strategies, including physical therapy or medications, to alleviate discomfort and maintain mobility. In some cases, corrective surgeries might be necessary to address functional impairments or to relieve persistent pain.
Psychological impacts are another significant aspect of the long-term consequences of a dog bite. Victims may develop fear or anxiety around animals, particularly dogs, which can limit their ability to engage in everyday activities that involve encountering dogs, such as walking in the park or visiting friends who own pets. Some individuals may even experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), characterized by intrusive memories, nightmares, and heightened anxiety levels. Therapy and counseling can be crucial in helping individuals process these emotions and work toward overcoming their fears.
Another potential long-term issue is the effect of scarring and disfigurement, which can have both physical and emotional repercussions. Noticeable scars may lead to decreased self-esteem and self-consciousness, impacting social interactions and personal relationships. Dermatological treatments, such as laser therapy or reconstructive surgery, may be able to minimize the appearance of scars, but these procedures can be extensive and emotionally taxing.
Additionally, in cases involving severe bites to joints or limbs, there might be a persistent reduction in range of motion or strength. This can impact a person’s ability to perform daily activities or participate in work and leisure tasks, potentially necessitating modifications or accommodations. Occupational or physical therapy is often employed to help individuals regain functionality and improve their quality of life.
Understanding these long-term impacts underscores the importance of getting fair compensation following a dog bite. Our Springfield, IL, dog bite lawyers can work to obtain compensation for your anticipated future medical needs.
Statute of Limitations for Illinois Dog Bite Cases
In Illinois, you generally have two years from the date you were injured to file a personal injury claim, including those involving dog bites. If you do not file within this period, you will likely be unable to recover damages, so do not wait to discuss your case with our team at Haxel Law.
Don’t assume you aren’t entitled to compensation after a dog bite. Learn more about your rights and options today by calling
(217) 215-4166 or contacting us online.
Hear From Our Happy Clients
At Haxel Law, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"Thank you, Martin."When I got injured, I knew I was going to be out of work. I knew I was going to be struggling with my family. I was really worried about the direction my life had turned towards. If I hadn't contacted Martin Haxel. I would still be fighting to get what I deserved. What was owed to me. Mr. Haxel however, stayed with me. He told me the truth. He didn't lie, or manipulate anything. He was honest and informative. He was the hope I didn't have at that time. He struggled with me to get all of it resolved. He did it with integrity, honesty, and a sincere understanding of what I was going through. To anyone considering having Mr. Haxel represent them in similar situations...I would say, you couldn't pick a better person. He's a great lawyer. He does great work. He's a nice person with a lot of experience in this field. If there's anyone you can turn to when no one will listen or even attempt to help you do what is right...Mr. Haxel is the one. I can't say enough good things about him. Now that my case is settled thanks to his work, I'm going to miss having someone having my back. He's a good man and I hope he feels good about what he's done when he lays down to sleep and reflects on his days, weeks, months, and years. People like him, give people hope, and faith that there are good people still roaming around this crazy thing called life. Martin, thank you. You're a beast.- Chris Y.
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"Highly Recommend"Attorney Martin Haxel fought long and hard for a fair and just settlement. I recommend Haxel Law for your Work Comp case.- Karyn S.
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"No One Better"I was referred to Martin by my original attorney. My original attorney didn't want to spend the time and money to represent me because my case was going to be difficult, time-consuming, and against the City of Champaign. I am so glad that Martin was willing to take my case and see it through. If you have a "hidden injury" like me or even an obvious injury Martin will handle it very professionally and give it the attention that you deserve.- John M.
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"What a great experience!"I strongly recommend Haxel Law Firm to everyone. In fact, he has now taken on my fiance as a client. Thanks Marty for what you did for me!- David S.
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"Made Everything Easy for Me"His assistant was very pleasant and helpful as well. If he wasn't available when I called and left a message he was always prompt to respond to my messages and emails. I would highly recommend him to anyone who can use his skills!- David N.
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"Martin Truly Cares About You"I had a life-changing experience 4 years ago. Mr Haxel continually worked with the insurance company to settle the workman comp claim. Mr. Haxel was always available to call if you had any concerns and was always willing to listen to you.- Marvin S.
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"Marty was great to work with!"He kept in communication and made the process as stress-free as possible. Hopefully I never need a personal injury attorney again, but if I do, I wouldn't hesitate to hire Marty.- Kristi D.
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"Very Positive Experience Representing My Daughter"Very responsive and patient answering all my questions. I hope to never be in a situation of needing a lawyer again, but if I did, I would 100% contact Martin again.- Jim P.
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"Thanks For All You Have Done!"Marty Haxel provided exceptional help with a complex work men's comp case, made our part seem small. Would refer him to anyone that needs help fighting the big guys!- David E.