Can You Recover Compensation for Dog Bite Plastic Surgery in Illinois?

Getting hurt in a dog bite incident in Illinois can have serious consequences. In some severe cases, a dangerous dog could cause injuries that require plastic surgery to reach maximum medical improvement. Fortunately, you can hold the at-fault party accountable and pursue compensation for dog bite plastic surgery with a civil claim.

The right legal team can significantly increase your chances of securing a fair settlement. Our Chicago dog bite attorneys believe in your case and will fight for justice against the liable parties, ensuring you receive every dollar you deserve.

What Dog Bite Injuries Require Reconstructive Surgery?

Severe injuries sustained in a dog attack may require reconstructive surgery. Here are the most common types of damage that typically lead to intense surgical procedures:

• Facial wounds, such as deep lacerations
• Tissue loss
• Significant muscle damage
• Permanent scarring or disfigurement in visible areas, such as the face, hands, or neck
• Nerve damage that causes a loss of mobility, requiring reconstructive repair

What Are Common Types of Dog Bite Plastic Surgery?

Plastic surgery can be incredibly expensive, and many victims must bear the costs that insurance companies do not cover. Here are some common surgical procedures for severe injuries caused by dog bites:

• Scar revision – This procedure minimizes visible scarring through excision, laser, or grafting
• Skin grafts or flaps – A process designed to replace or repair the outer layers of the skin
• Microsurgery – Used to restore function or sensation to injured areas
• Facial reconstruction – A surgery that can realign bones or tissue after deep bites
• Revisions over time – As children grow, they may need multiple surgeries to the affected area

What Are the Medical Costs Associated With Dog Bite Plastic Surgery?

The average cost of a minor scar revision procedure can fall between $3,000 and $5,000. However, a complete reconstruction of an injury could cost $20,000 to over $100,000.

With a successful dog bite settlement, you can recover these costs as economic damages.

What Other Damages Can Bite Victims Seek From Illinois Dog Owners?

Let’s look at the types of legal damages you can include in a dog bite case:

Economic Damages

• Lost wages during recovery
• Medical expenses, including surgery, anesthesia, emergency room visits, hospital stays, and medication
• Future medical bills, such as rehabilitation and physical therapy
• Diminished future income

Non-Economic Damages

• Emotional distress, such as PTSD, depression, or social anxiety, caused by permanent scarring
• Pain and suffering during and after treatment
• Disability and disfigurement (recognized as a distinct compensatory damage when visible deformities affect a person’s appearance under 735 ILCS 5/2-1115.2)
• Loss of enjoyment of life or self-esteem

Does the Owner’s Knowledge of Their Dog’s Past Behavior Impact Claim Values?

Under the Illinois Animal Control Act (510 ILCS 5/16), the owner’s knowledge of a dog’s behavior is irrelevant due to strict liability. Dog owners are fully liable for legal damages suffered by victims unless the victim provoked the animal or trespassed on private property.

As the plaintiff, you do not have to prove negligence for your dog bite claim. All you must prove is that you were lawfully present on the owner’s property and did not provoke the attack. There must also be evidence that the dog attacked or appeared to attack you and caused personal injuries.

How Our Chicago Personal Injury Attorneys Can Help Victims Recover Fair Compensation

Pursuing compensation from the dog owner’s insurance company is a challenging task. Although you don’t have to prove the dog owner’s negligence due to strict liability laws, it can still be difficult to win your claim.

Our expert attorneys believe in your case and will help you fight for a fair dog bite settlement. Our legal services include:

• Investigating the incident
• Gathering evidence of medical costs, injuries, and liability
• Assessing all legal damages, including emotional trauma and disfigurement
• Collecting witness statements and medical records to strengthen your claim
• Protecting your rights during the legal process
• Negotiating with insurance companies
• Litigating in civil court if necessary
• Working on a contingency fee basis (you pay nothing unless we win)

As the injured person of an attack by someone else’s dog, you have the right to seek justice. Contact our personal injury lawyers today to schedule a free consultation about your dog bite case.