Dog Bite Lawyer for Cyclists

Holding Negligent Dog Owners Accountable for Your Bike Crash

Under Illinois law, if a dog caused you to crash, whether by chasing, lunging, or darting into your path, the dog’s owner is almost certainly liable for your injuries and damages. This means you have the right to pursue compensation for any injuries caused by the animal attack with the help of a dog bite lawyer for cyclists.

Loose and aggressive dogs are a serious and unique threat to cyclists navigating Chicago’s busy streets, dedicated bike lanes, and scenic lakefront paths. Even a brief encounter with an uncontrolled animal can lead to a sudden swerve, a dangerous fall, or a direct dog attack.

Common Scenarios in a Chicago Bike Accident Caused by a Dog

Loose dogs on Chicago’s streets create sudden, dangerous situations for cyclists. Even without a bite, an unexpected dog attack can cause a bicycle crash, leading to nasty injuries and steep medical treatment expenses.

Here are the most common scenarios:

The Direct Chase and Dog Attack

When a loose dog chases a cyclist, lunges at their wheels, or bites their leg or ankle, even if no bite occurs, panic or loss of control can lead to a crash. Under Illinois law, the dog owner is liable for the injuries and damages caused.

The Swerve or Evasive Maneuver Crash

Cyclists often instinctively swerve to avoid a charging dog. This sudden move can cause them to hit a curb, a car, or another rider, resulting in broken bones, head injuries, and costly medical treatment. Illinois’ strict liability law still holds the owner responsible.

The “Dart-Out” Collision

Dogs often dart out from yards, alleys, or between parked cars with no warning. This can cause the cyclist to collide with the animal or crash trying to avoid it. Victims can pursue compensation for lost wages and other damages with help from an experienced accident lawyer.

The Hidden Danger of Retractable Leashes

Long, retractable leashes can be just as hazardous as a loose dog. When stretched across a bike path or sidewalk, they create an invisible “tripwire” that can snag a cyclist or their bike, causing a sudden crash and serious injuries.

Under Illinois law, dog owners who allow this kind of danger may still be held liable for the resulting injuries, medical treatment, and property damage.

Common Injuries in Dog-Related Bicycle Accidents

Cyclists involved in dog attacks or crashes caused by the owners’ negligence often suffer severe, long-lasting harm. Common personal injuries include:

• Broken bones and fractures (arms, wrists, collarbone, ribs, or legs)
• Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Bites to the legs, ankles, or hands leading to lacerations and scarring
• Deep cuts and puncture wounds from crashes or bites
• Road rash and abrasions from sliding on pavement
• Spinal cord injuries and back trauma from high-impact falls
• Internal injuries such as organ damage or internal bleeding
• Dental or facial injuries from striking handlebars or the ground
• Soft tissue injuries including torn ligaments, sprains, and strains
• Psychological trauma such as PTSD, anxiety, or fear of cycling
• Extensive medical bills requiring ongoing physical therapy or reconstructive care

Your Rights Under the Illinois Animal Control Act

Cyclists injured by a dog in Chicago are protected by the Illinois Animal Control Act (510 ILCS 5/16).

This statute imposes “strict liability” on owners, meaning they are legally responsible for injuries their animals cause as long as the victim was acting peaceably and was in a place they were legally allowed to be, such as a public street, bicycle lane, or lakefront path.

This law is especially powerful for injured bicyclists because it covers not just bites but also crashes and falls caused by a dog attack or animal interference.

What “Strict Liability” Means for an Injured Bicyclist

Under strict liability, you do not have to prove that the owner of the dog was careless, negligent, or aware of past aggression. If an unprovoked dog chased you, darted into your path, or caused you to crash, the owner is legally responsible for your medical expenses, lost income, and other damages.

This allows bicycle accident lawyers to focus on proving the dog caused the crash, rather than fighting over the owner’s intent or knowledge.

The Importance of Chicago’s Leash Law

The Chicago Municipal Code (7-12-030) requires all dogs in public spaces to be on a leash no longer than six feet long. Violating this leash law is a city ordinance breach and compelling evidence of owner negligence in a personal injury case.

When paired with the Illinois Animal Control Act, this violation strengthens your claim and can help an experienced attorney obtain compensation for your medical treatment bills, property damage, and other damages.

What Compensation Can a Bicycle Accident Lawyer Help You Recover?

An experienced accident lawyer can pursue full compensation for all the ways a dog attack or bicycle accident has affected your life.

Recoverable damages may include:

• Medical expenses for emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, and follow-up visits
• Future medical costs, including ongoing treatment, physical therapy, or rehabilitation
• Lost wages for time missed from work during recovery
• Loss of earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job
• Property damage for your damaged bicycle, gear, or personal items
• Pain and suffering for physical pain, disfigurement, or permanent disability
• Emotional distress, including PTSD, anxiety, and loss of enjoyment of cycling
• Scarring and disfigurement damages for lasting visible injuries
• Loss of normal life, such as inability to participate in hobbies, sports, or family activities
• Out-of-pocket expenses related to medical care, transportation, or household help during recovery
• Wrongful death damages (if a loved one was killed) including funeral and burial costs, loss of companionship, and loss of financial support

What Makes Us the Best Bicycle Accident Attorney Team in Chicago?

Our attorneys combine deep experience in both Illinois bicycle law and dog attack liability, making us uniquely qualified to represent cyclists after a dog attack or bicycle accident.

We understand how Chicago’s dense network of bicycle lanes, city streets, and lakefront paths creates unique hazards, and we know how to use the Illinois Animal Control Act and Chicago’s leash laws to hold pet owners and their insurers fully accountable.

Because we focus on this hybrid area of personal injury law, we bring:

• Dual expertise in bicycle accident litigation and dog attack cases
• Extensive knowledge of local Chicago ordinances and how violations strengthen your claim
• A proven track record of successful settlements and verdicts for cyclists harmed by loose or aggressive dogs
• Direct negotiation with insurance companies to pursue maximum compensation for medical expenditure, lost income, and serious injuries

Our Settlements for Injured Cyclists in Chicago

Our lawyers have a long history of securing significant financial settlements for many dog attack victims, including those who suffered injuries while cycling. By combining our expertise in Illinois law, bicycle accident litigation, and dog bite liability, we’ve helped many clients recover the compensation they deserve.

Some representative results include:

• $550,000 Non-Bite Settlement – Obtained for an elderly woman knocked over by a dog, resulting in multiple leg fractures.
• $195,500 Dog Bite Lawsuit Settlement – Secured for an 11-year-old bitten by a neighbor’s dog that broke out of a fenced yard.
• $165,454 Recovery – Achieved for a postal worker attacked by a Boxer while delivering mail.

Navigating the Legal Process with Our Law Firm

After a dog attack or bicycle accident, you shouldn’t have to fight paperwork or insurance corporations alone. We investigate your case, gather medical documents, photos, and police reports, and file claims directly with the dog owner’s insurance to seek fair compensation for your medical treatment bills and lost income.

If insurers don’t offer a fair settlement, our experienced attorneys for cyclists injured by attacking dogs are ready to go to court. We offer free consultation, keep you informed, explain your legal options, and fight to win the compensation you deserve under state law.

What to Do Immediately After a Dog Causes Your Bike Crash

After a dog causes your crash, quick action protects your health, documents the bicycle accident, and strengthens your future claim.

Here’s what you should do:

1. Get to Safety & Call 911: Move off the path and call emergency services if you’ve sustained severe injuries.
2. Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Even minor wounds or head injuries need prompt care to create medical records.
3. Identify Owner and Dog: Get names, contact info, and photos of the dog, collar, and any tags.
4. Call Police & Animal Control: File police and animal control reports to document the bicycle accident and dog attack.
5. Take Photos: Capture injuries, damaged gear, the scene, and any leash hazards.
6. Collect Witness Info: Ask for names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the incident.
7. Preserve Evidence: Keep your bike, helmet, and clothing as-is; don’t repair or throw away anything.
8. Contact a Lawyer: An experienced attorney can handle insurers and pursue damages.

Chicago Dog Attack & Cyclist FAQs

Do I Have a Case if the Dog Didn’t Actually Bite Me but Just Caused Me to Crash?

Yes. Under Illinois’ strict liability law, you can recover damages if an unprovoked dog caused your crash, even without a bite. The owner is still responsible for your medical bills, lost income, and other damages.

What if the Dog Attack Happened on the Lakefront Trail or in a Cook County Forest Preserve?

You still have rights. If you were legally allowed on the trail or in the preserve, Illinois state law applies the same way, and the pet owner can be held liable for your damages.

How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Dog-Related Bike Accident in Illinois?

You typically have two years from the date of your bicycle accident in Illinois to file a lawsuit. Acting quickly protects your evidence, medical history, and your right to fair compensation.

Contact a Chicago Dog Attack & Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today

Injured in a bike crash caused by a dog attack? Our experienced personal injury lawyers know Illinois legislation and Chicago’s bicycle lanes. We’ve helped many dog bite victims, and we’ll fight for your medical bills, lost income, and fair compensation.

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win. Schedule your free consultation today to discuss your case with an experienced bicycle accident and dog bite attorney in Chicago and learn how we can help you achieve justice.