According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 36 percent of households have at least one dog. Though most dogs are friendly and well-trained, some are not, and they have the capacity to inflict tremendous damage on those they may attack.
A study from the CDC estimated that approximately 4.7 million dog bites occur in the United States each year. Among these, nearly 800,000 require medical care.
If you or a loved one was attacked by a dog, you may be able to pursue compensation for your injuries with the help of an experienced personal injury attorney. A Naperville dog bite lawyer may be able to help you through the process of filing a personal injury claim.
The Consequences of a Dog Bite
Dog attacks can have horrific consequences. The injury from a dog bite can be very extensive and have effects which can last a lifetime.
Those who have been bitten by a dog may face disfigurement, broken bones, disease, and other potentially chronic conditions. This can have a tremendous impact on their personal wellbeing.
Dog bites often require medical attention, which can create a heavy financial burden for victims. If the injuries are extensive enough, an individual may be unable to work, leading to lost income. These factors combined can greatly damage a person’s financial security.
Additionally, dog bite victims may experience serious psychological and emotional trauma. The effects of this can last a lifetime and greatly reduce a person’s quality of life.
Fortunately, victims may be eligible to recover compensation for their losses. A Naperville dog bite attorney could guide them through the process of filing a personal injury claim and holding the at-fault party accountable.
How to File a Personal Injury Claim
Those who are bitten by a dog are afforded protections by Illinois law. Under Illinois Compiled Statutes, 510 5/16, dog owners are liable for any attacks their pet conducts against others. This means that dog attack victims can hold owners accountable for their damages in civil court. However, determining if there are grounds to file a personal injury claim can be a difficult process. Victims may need to rely on the knowledge and experience of a dedicated Naperville dog bite attorney.
Furthermore, personal injury lawsuits are subject to strict time limits under Illinois Compiled Statutes, 735 5/13-202. In most cases, Naperville plaintiffs and their dog bite lawyers have two years from the date of injury to file their personal injury claims. It is imperative that anyone wishing to pursue a civil suit for damages does so as soon as possible to protect their eligibility for compensation.
A Naperville Dog Bite Attorney Could Assert Your Rights
Dog bites can be traumatic and damaging events, but help is available. If you or someone you love was attacked by a dog, consider contacting a Naperville dog bite attorney as soon as possible.
With the help of a compassionate personal injury attorney, you could hold the owner accountable and seek the compensation you need to recover from your injuries. Call today to schedule a consultation.