Will County Dog Bite Lawsuits

Experienced Dog Attack Injury Lawyers Serving Will County

Dog attacks can leave victims with lasting physical and emotional scars. Our law firm represent clients in Will County dog bite lawsuits involving serious injuries, negligent supervision, or unsafe property conditions.

Whether the dog owner failed to restrain a dangerous dog or an animal control violation occurred, our law firm helps victims and their families recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

From Joliet and Bolingbrook to Plainfield and Romeoville, many victims are unaware that under Illinois law, owners face strict liability when their dog injures a person. If you or a loved one was bitten or injured, our team can help you pursue a dog bite claim through a free initial consultation.

Settlements Recovered by Our Dog Bite Lawyers Serving Will County

Our experienced lawyers have recovered significant settlements for clients injured in dog bites across the area. Each case demonstrates how Illinois law holds many dog owners liable for injuries caused by their animals.

$885,000 – Joliet Cookout Attack

Ethan, 17, was attacked by a large Joliet dog during a cookout and pushed into a bonfire. He suffered burns and bite wounds, requiring reconstructive surgery. The owner was held liable we recovered significant compensation for the client.

$550,000 – Bolingbrook Apartment Fall

Marilyn, an elderly woman, was knocked down by a dog in her Bolingbrookapartment complex, breaking both legs. Our law firm proved the dog-related injuries accounted significantly to the fractures despite an initial insurance company denial.

$195,500 – Plainfield Yard Bite

Caleb, 11, was bitten by a neighbor’s dog that escaped a fenced yard in Plainfield, leaving deep puncture wounds and infection. The owner was found liable for failing to restrain the animal.

What Illinois Laws Govern Animal Attacks in Will County?

Illinois Animal Control Act

Under the Illinois Animal Control Act (510 ILCS 5/), animal owners are strictly liable when their dog bites or injures a person who is lawfully present and acting in a peaceable manner.

This means victims do not have to prove negligence, only that the dog bite or attack occurred and caused injuries. The law also defines dangerous and vicious dogs, requiring owners to keep such animals restrained and properly registered.

Will County Code of Ordinances

The Will County Code of Ordinances reinforces these state laws by prohibiting dogs from running at large, requiring rabies vaccination, and mandating leash control in public. Local animal control officers may impound aggressive animals, investigate incidents, and issue fines to owners who violate local ordinances.

Together, state and county laws ensure animal owners are held liable for injuries caused by their pets and help protect victims across Will County.

What Are Common Dog Bite Injuries?

Dog bites can cause a range of injuries, from minor wounds to severe trauma requiring surgery and long-term medical treatment. Our lawyers often represent dog bite victims suffering from:

• Deep puncture wounds and lacerations
• Crush injuries and nerve damage
• Fractures from being knocked down or pulled
• Facial and eye injuries requiring plastic surgery
• Infections such as cellulitis or rabies exposure
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Emotional distress and post-traumatic stress after an attack

Prompt medical care and proper documentation of all injuries are essential in dog-related cases to support a successful civil claim.

Where Do Most Dog Attacks Occur in Will County?

In Will County, dog bites and attacks can happen almost anywhere people and animals interact. However, certain locations see more reported animal attacks due to the mix of residential density, pet ownership, and public activity. Common sites include:

• Neighborhood streets in Joliet and Shorewood, where off-leash dogs sometimes chase pedestrians, mail carriers, or cyclists.
• Parks and forest preserves such as Hammel Woods in Shorewood or Messenger Woods near Homer Glen, where unleashed dogs encounter joggers and children.
• Apartment complexes in Bolingbrook and Lockport, where shared outdoor spaces increase the risk of poorly restrained pets.
• Veterinary facilities and grooming centers in Romeoville or New Lenox, where frightened or unhandled dogs may lash out during care.
• Dog-friendly areas and walking trails in Plainfield and Channahon, especially when multiple animals interact without proper control.
• Delivery routes and driveways, where postal workers and delivery drivers face sudden attacks from territorial pets.
• Schools, playgrounds, and daycare yards, where children are often the most vulnerable to injuries caused by excited or aggressive dogs.
• Private property gatherings, such as backyard parties or barbecues, when dogs are left to roam freely around guests.

What Damages Can Dog Bite Victims Recover in Will County?

Victims of dog bites in Will County may be entitled to damages for both economic and non-economic losses. Under the Illinois Animal Control Act and state personal injury laws, those injured by a dog that was not properly restrained can recover damages for the full scope of harm suffered.

Common recoverable damages include:

• Medical care and hospital bills for emergency treatment, surgery, or rehabilitation
• Future medical expenses for ongoing therapy or reconstructive procedures
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity from time away from work
• Pain and suffering, including emotional trauma and loss of enjoyment of life
• Scarring or disfigurement, often resulting in permanent physical reminders of the attack
• Property damage, such as torn clothing or broken glasses during the incident
• Punitive damages in rare cases involving reckless or intentional behavior by the owner

Whether the dog bite occurred on private property, in a public park, or at the vet, the law allows victims to seek full compensation when the owner is held liable for injuries inflicted by their animal’s aggressive behavior.

What Is the Average Dog Bite Case Worth in Illinois?

Settlement data shows that dog bite payouts in Illinois can vary widely in value. Based on recent statistics, the median settlement is $35,000, while the average settlement is $162,917. The value range is from $2,200 to $1.1 million.

These figures reflect the range of dog-related cases filed in Illinois courts, with higher payouts typically linked to severe dog bite injuries, permanent scarring, or the need for reconstructive procedures.

Several factors influence the settlement amount, including:

• Severity of injuries and medical costs
• Whether the victim required hospitalization or long-term medical care
• Age of the victim, children often receive higher compensation
• Extent of emotional distress and scarring
• Evidence of aggression or repeated animal attacks
• The insurance company’s coverage and willingness to negotiate

While every case is unique, these numbers help illustrate the financial recovery possible when an owner is found liable under Illinois law.

How Long Victims Have to File a Dog Bite Claim in Illinois?

Under 735 ILCS 5/13-202, victims of animal attacks generally have two years from the date of the incident to file a civil lawsuit in Illinois. This deadline applies to most dog bite cases, whether the injury occurred on private property or in a public place.

For children injured by a dog, 735 ILCS 5/13-211 allows additional time: the two-year period begins when the child turns 18, giving them until their 20th birthday to pursue a claim.

Missing these deadlines can prevent a victim from recovering compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages, so it’s important to take prompt action after any dog bite injury.

How to Report a Dog Bite in Will County

Anyone who has been bitten or attacked by a dog or other animal in Will County should report the incident right away. Local authorities rely on these reports to investigate dangerous behavior, verify rabies vaccination status, and ensure the dog owner is properly held liable under state law.

Complete the following steps after a dog bite:

1. Get immediate medical treatment for your injuries.
2. Contact your local police department or call Will County Animal Protection Services at (815) 462-5633 to report the attack.
3. Provide details about the dog, owner, and where the incident occurred.
4. Cooperate with the investigation, officers may need vaccination proof or witness statements.
5. Keep copies of all medical records and bills for your civil claim.

Prompt reporting helps protect others from future attacks and supports your right to recover damages for the harm you’ve suffered.

Let Us Help You Hold Negligent Dog Owners Accountable

If you or someone you love was bitten or hurt in a dog bite in Will County, our Chicago-based dog bite law firm can help you pursue a personal injury claim and obtain the compensation you deserve. We handle every step of the legal process, from investigating the dog owner’s liability to negotiating with the insurance company, so you can focus on recovery.

We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and explain your rights under Illinois law. Our team works on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs and no attorney fees unless we win. Reach out to us today to discuss your case with an experienced dog bite injury lawyer in Illinois who can explain your rights and legal options.