Chicago Dog Park Attack Injury Lawyer

Compensation for Dog Bite Injuries at Chicago Dog Parks

Dog parks are a common sight in Chicago, where owners can bring their pets for exercise and socialization. However, these animals can still become aggressive when they are uncomfortable or defensive, which can lead to serious injuries for the victim. If a canine in this environment injures you, a dog park attack injury lawyer can help you fight for compensation to address your legal damages.

Our dog bite attorneys are uniquely positioned to stand beside you during the claims process. We have held many negligent dog owners accountable for our past clients, and we are prepared to do the same for you.

Dog Bite Settlements & Verdicts Recovered by Our Chicago Law Firm

$885,000

Sixteen-year-old Marcus was bitten and pushed into a bonfire by a large dog during a Cicero cookout, leaving burns and deep bite wounds. The combination of physical scarring and psychological harm influenced the settlement amount.

$700,000

Laura, a 32-year-old from Oak Lawn, was bitten by a neighbor’s German Shepherd, causing nerve issues and scarring to her arm. The injury’s impact on her hairstyling career raised the case’s value.

$375,000

Three-year-old Liam was attacked by a pit bull outside his South Side home, requiring facial surgery. The settlement reflected the lasting scars and trauma he endured.

What Makes Us the Best Chicago Dog Park Attack Lawyers

Our expert attorneys have the experience necessary to hear your case and pursue justice on your behalf. The firm holds a five-star rating from AVVO, and our head attorney is a regular contributor to the National Law Review.

Types of Dog Park Attack Cases We Handle in Chicago

We have represented injured clients in cases involving:

• Unleashed or aggressive dogs in city parks and on beaches
• Injuries to children, owners, or bystanders caught in dog fights
• Multiple dogs, owners, or confusing ownership
• Incidents caused by dangerous breeds
• Physical injuries not caused by bites

What Are the Most Common Causes of Attacks in Chicago Dog Parks?

The cause of your attack will play a crucial role in the claim’s outcome. Here are some common causes of animal attacks in Chicago:

• A failure to leash a dog
• An owner ignoring the dog park rules
• An owner bringing an aggressive dog around other animals
• Overcrowding
• Lack of park supervision
• A failure to separate small and large dogs in shared spaces

What Are the Most Common Injuries Sustained in Dog Park Attacks?

Common injuries associated with dog attacks include:

• Puncture wounds and infections
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Nerve damage
• Soft tissue injuries
• Emotional trauma, especially in children
• Fatalities

What Damages Can Dog Bite Victims Recover in Illinois?

If you win your claim against the dog owner, you could recover compensation for these legal damages:

• Lost wages
• Future lost income
• Medical bills (emergency room visits, surgery, medication, and rehabilitation)
• Future medical expenses
• Emotional harm
• Disability and disfigurement
• Physical pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life

What Is the Average Payout in Chicago Dog Attack Lawsuits?

In Illinois, the average settlement for injuries caused by a dog in a park is $38,657. Factors that may impact your settlement include injury severity, medical costs, insurance policies, and liability.

Example Dog Bite Injury Cases

In 2007, Ivan Wojtecki was visiting his girlfriend’s father’s house in Oak Park. When he attempted to hug their Neapolitan Mastiff, the animal bit his face. The defendant claimed that Wojtecki surprised the animal while it was asleep, but the plaintiff claimed he put his hand on the dog first. Wojtecki was awarded $56,000 in damages.

In 2014, Michael Cohen was jogging near Watts Park when an unleashed dog attacked him and bit his right leg. He sued the owner of the golden retriever poodle for failing to leash the dog, and the defendant conceded liability. Cohen received $21,315.

Why You Need a Lawyer Following an Attack at a Chicago Dog Park

Navigating the legal process can be a complex endeavor. Our dog bite lawyers can help you overcome the following challenges:

• A stubborn dog owner
• Shady insurance company tactics
• Claims of provocation or trespassing
• Filing the lawsuit in the Cook County Circuit Court
• Assessing legal damages

How Common Are Dog Bite Incidents in Chicago Dog Parks?

Although dog parks nationwide are designed for socialization and exercise, they often become hazardous places due to the presence of aggressive dogs. Out of 4.5 million canine bites in the US each year, roughly 283,000 cases occur at dog parks.

Chicago has 20 official dog parks and beaches, and reports of incidents in these locations are steadily increasing.

Where Do Canine Bites Occur Most Often in Chicago?

Some common locations where dog owners fail to prevent canine attacks include:

• Montrose Dog Beach
• Wiggly Field (Sheffield & Wrightwood)
• Puptown Dog Park (Uptown)
• Jackson Bark (South Shore)
• Larrabee Dog Park (Near North Side)

What Illinois Laws Govern Dog Park and Other Animal Attack Claims?

Dog-friendly area regulations – Dog owners must be with their animals at all times and must leash them outside the DFAs.

Illinois Animal Control Act (510 ILCS 5/) – Dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets.

7-12-030 – Dogs must be kept on leashes in public places.

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

735 ILCS 5/13-202 – Injured victims have two years from the date of their injuries to pursue legal action.

735 ILCS 5/13-211 – The statute of limitations for minors is paused until they turn 18, after which they also have two years to seek compensation from negligent parties.

Who Is Legally Liable for Dog Bite Injuries in Chicago?

Potentially liable parties in your lawsuit may include:

• Individual dog owners, sitters, or walkers
• Multiple owners of various animals
• Property owners
• Park managers

Common Defenses in Chicago Dog Bite Cases

Defenses often used in dog injury cases include:

• The plaintiff provoked the animal
• The plaintiff trespassed on the owner’s property
• The dog acted in self-defense

Our law firm will investigate ownership, gather witness statements, and secure photo evidence to counter these defenses.

How to Strengthen Your Dog Bite Injury Claim in Chicago

The following steps can strengthen your Illinois dog injury claim:

• Seek medical attention immediately
• Report the attack to the police or animal control
• Get information from the dog owner
• Speak to witnesses
• Take photos of the dog and your severe injuries
• Save physical evidence
• Do not speak to insurers until consulting our personal injury firm

How a Chicago Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help

Our legal services include:

• Investigating the attack
• Gathering evidence of your innocence
• Assessing damages
• Negotiating with insurers
• Litigating in civil court

FAQs

How much do canine bite attorneys charge in Chicago?

Our attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning no fees are due unless we secure a favorable outcome.

What if I don’t know who the dog owner is?

You can take pictures of the dog and report the attack to animal control, which may have records of ownership.

How do you prove emotional distress following a canine attack?

Typically, you will need medical testimony from a mental health professional to prove psychological trauma.

Book a Free Consultation!

Negligent dog owners must be brought to justice when their pets cause serious personal injuries. With our contingency fee agreement, there are no upfront costs to work with one of our experienced dog bite lawyers.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with our expert attorneys.