A dog attack can be a frightening and painful experience. In an instant, you could suffer serious injuries, including deep wounds, nerve damage, or even long-term trauma. While most dogs are friendly, some may bite due to fear, aggression, or lack of training.
If you or a loved one is bitten by a dog in Northbrook, IL, or the North Suburbs, you may be entitled to significant compensation. Here’s what you should do immediately after an attack to protect your rights and well-being.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Dog Attack
1. Get to Safety
If a dog attacks, try to put distance between yourself and the animal. If possible, move behind a barrier like a car or fence. Avoid sudden movements that could provoke further aggression.
2. Seek Medical Attention
Even a minor dog bite can lead to serious infections or complications. Puncture wounds, torn skin, and broken bones should be treated as soon as possible. If the bite is severe, call 911 or go to the emergency room. For less severe injuries, clean the wound with soap and water and seek medical care.
3. Identify the Dog and Its Owner
If possible, find out who owns the dog and whether it has been vaccinated for rabies. Illinois law requires dogs to be up to date on rabies shots, but if the dog is unvaccinated or a stray, you may need additional medical treatment, including rabies prevention shots.
4. Report the Incident
Dog attacks in Northbrook should be reported to local animal control or law enforcement. A report creates an official record of the attack, which may be helpful if you pursue a claim.
5. Document Your Injuries and the Scene
- Take photos of your injuries, torn clothing, and the location where the attack happened.
- Write down details about the attack, including what the dog looked like, whether it was on a leash, and what led to the bite.
- Get contact information for witnesses who saw the attack.
6. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
Dog owners are legally responsible for their pets. If you were attacked by a dog in Northbrook, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and hold the dog owner accountable.
Illinois Dog Bite Laws: Understanding Liability
Illinois follows a strict liability rule for dog attacks. This means that a dog owner is responsible for injuries their dog causes, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. The only exceptions are if the victim was trespassing or provoking the dog.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
If a dog bit you, you may be eligible for compensation, including:
- Medical expenses (emergency care, stitches, surgery, infection treatment)
- Lost wages if you had to take time off work
- Pain and suffering for physical and emotional trauma
- Scarring or disfigurement if the bite caused permanent damage
How a Northbrook Dog Bite Attorney Can Help
Insurance companies may try to downplay the seriousness of your injuries or offer a low settlement that doesn’t cover all of your expenses. A personal injury attorney helps by:
- Gathering evidence to support your claim
- Negotiating with insurance companies for a fair settlement
- Filing a lawsuit if necessary to pursue full compensation
If you were attacked by a dog in Northbrook, IL, or anywhere in the North Suburbs, turn to Stein & Shulman. You can depend on us to fight for the compensation you need and deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
