How Does the Justice for Buddy Act Affect Victims of Dog Attacks?

Dogs in Illinois are still animals, which means they can attack other pets and people. An important piece of legislation related to dog attacks was passed by the Illinois legislature in 2019, known as the Justice for Buddy Act. How does the Justice for Buddy Act affect victims of dog attacks in Illinois?

In this guide, we will examine the impact of the new law on dog owners and personal injury lawsuits. Our Chicago dog bite attorneys will stand by your side during the claims process to hold pet owners responsible for legal damages.

How the Justice for Buddy Act hold pet owners responsible

What Is the Justice for Buddy Act?

Not all dog owners are responsible people who understand the importance of training and controlling their pets. A 2017 attack in Hanover Park resulted in the death of a Yorkshire Terrier named Buddy.

As a result, Illinois senator Laura Murphy brought forth legislation to hold pet owners responsible for consistent negligence. If a dangerous dog is repeatedly found off-leash and causes injuries, it can be placed in a licensed shelter to be independently evaluated and euthanized or re-homed. Additionally, the owner could be prohibited from owning a dog for up to three years.

What Constitutes a Reckless Dog Owner in Illinois?

State law 510 ILCS 5/15.5 defines someone as a reckless dog owner if:

Their dog has already been deemed dangerous
The same dog is found at large twice within 12 months
The same dog is deemed dangerous for a second offense within 24 months

Penalties for a reckless dog owner can include forfeiture, a ban on ownership for 12 to 36 months, or daily fines.

Does the Act Apply to All Dangerous Dogs?

An aggressive dog is only declared dangerous under this act, so if there are no prior violations of animal attacks or off-leash incidents, the dog is not yet classified as dangerous. There must be clear and convincing evidence, a higher standard than that required for a typical civil claim.

Can Dog Bite Victims Pursue Claims If the Owner Isn’t Deemed Reckless?

The law sponsored by the north suburban state senator does not prevent a settlement under strict liability. In Illinois, pet owners are liable for legal damages caused by their pets, except in cases of trespassing or provocation.

The act imposes additional accountability on pet owners who behave in a reckless manner.

How the Act Can Strengthen a Dog Bite Injury Claim

Punitive damages are often awarded in cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct. Therefore, the law inspired by an old Yorkie named Buddy can be referenced to designate the pet owner as reckless.

A skilled attorney from our firm can help you use this act as leverage for a larger settlement.

Let Us Help You Hold Negligent Dog Owners Accountable

An Illinois dog bite lawyer can play a crucial role in your pursuit of compensation. Our team will determine if the Act can apply to your case and increase compensation to cover medical attention costs, lost wages, and other losses. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

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How Does the Justice for Buddy Act Affect Victims of Dog Attacks in Illinois?