Most Common Areas for Dog Bites

Patterns of Dog Bite Injuries

In our experience, serious injuries follow clear, predictable patterns, not chance. Medical studies and our case files reveal the most common areas for dog bites, which helps us establish liability and document damages.

Location often differs between adults and children, which can change treatment needs, case value, and how we prove serious harm.

When a dog lunges or snaps, position and behavior matter. For standing adults, legs and hands are common targets.

A young child’s height puts the head near the dog’s mouth, so the most severe harm often clusters there. These trends align with the medical literature and what we observe in our Illinois cases.

The Most Frequently Bitten Body Parts in Adults

Hands and Arms

In our Illinois dog bite cases, the same pattern repeats. After the legs, the hands are the next most frequently injured area.

Many hand and forearm wounds occur when someone raises their arms to shield the face, or stem from activities such as petting, feeding, or reaching toward a dog. Because the hand contains delicate tendons and nerves, even a small puncture can lead to infection, serious complications, or lasting loss of function.

We document how it happened, which structures are involved, and how it affects fine motor tasks at work and at home.

Legs and Feet

Lower extremities are easy targets for a lunging or charging animal. Clients are often bitten while walking or jogging, or when a dog rushes a yard boundary.

These incidents can cause deep punctures or crush trauma, and sometimes a fall that adds further harm.

We photograph the wound pattern, track gait limitations, and account for time off work, as well as any necessary medical devices. If rabies is a concern, we ensure the record captures vaccination status and public health guidance.

Why Children Suffer a High Rate of Facial, Head, and Neck Bites

Children face a different pattern than adults. A child’s head, face, and neck sit at the same level as a dog’s mouth, so first contact often lands on these vulnerable areas. Playing on the floor and quick movements increase exposure.

These events carry a high risk of severe bleeding, complications affecting the eyes or teeth, and scars that may need revision as the child grows. The emotional toll is real, affecting confidence, sleep, and school.

We move quickly to photograph each site of damage, obtain specialist evaluations, and document how the harm changes daily life.

The Legal Importance of Your Bite Injuries

Where the wound appears often drives case value. Facial scarring usually commands more compensation than a minor arm puncture.

Hand cases are frequently high value because of function loss and post-bite complications. Deep leg trauma can limit mobility and work.

We build the record so a claims examiner or jury understands why these losses deserve full compensation.

Holding Dog Owners Accountable for All Injuries in Illinois

Illinois uses strict liability for dog bites and other animal attacks. If a dog injures you while you are peaceably present and not provoking the animal, the owner is responsible regardless of prior behavior.

We establish ownership and control, gather witness statements, confirm vaccination status, and secure photos and medical records to advance the claim.

Seeking Full Compensation for Your Recovery from Animal Bites

Victims can pursue compensation for medical care, surgery, therapy, lost wages, diminished earning capacity, and pain and suffering.

When serious conditions require ongoing care, we work with your doctors to project costs and collaborate with experts who explain the day-to-day impact on both adults and children.

Contact Our Illinois Dog Bite Lawyers for a Free Consultation

If you or your child suffered a dog bite, contact us today. We will review records and photos and explain how Illinois’ strict liability applies.

The consultation with a Chicago dog bite attorney is free and there is no obligation. We will outline a strategy to hold the owner accountable and pursue the full compensation you deserve, allowing you to focus on your healing.