Dog Bite Injuries

Cook, Lake & McHenry County Dog Bite Lawyers


Dog bite injury victims face a complex set of laws that determine who is liable for their injuries and just how much the injury is worth. The number of dog bite injuries has been on the rise in recent years. This is due in part to the increase in the number of dogs that are in homes from animal rescues.
The owners of these dogs often have no idea of the dog’s breeding or background. Another aspect of dog bite cases is the fact that many of them occur at a friend or relative’s house. As a result, the victim often doesn’t wish to pursue a claim. Robert Edens “Bob” and his staff understand this and know how to handle these delicate claims.
Attorney Bob Edens wrote the book on dog bite injury claims. His book is entitled, “WHAT TO DO WHEN THE DOG BITES.” In the book, Bob identifies step-by-step what to do after you have been attacked by a dog. A recognized expert in the field,
Bob will take every action necessary to ensure that you get the MONEY you deserve. If you or someone you love has been injured by a dog, please call Bob to get your questions answered and your options explained.

Statistics on Dog Bite Attacks
Almost 5 million people are bitten by dogs each year in the U.S. On average, 100 children are injured in dog attacks every day in the U.S. A whopping 92% of the injuries sustained by children require medical attention. Statistically, 15-20 people are killed every year in vicious dog attacks. 50% of the victims of dog attack fatalities are children under the age of 10.
Additionally, every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. seeks medical attention for a dog bite-related injury. A dog bite or dog attack is a very traumatic event often resulting in serious injury. Usually, a serious bite will result in permanent scarring, nerve damage, and a significant risk of infection.
Many times there is psychological trauma that lasts well beyond the physical injury. Numerous deaths are reported each year as a result of the most vicious attacks.
Dog bites can range from minor injuries to serious dog maulings, resulting in bodily injury and even death as in the case of James Dowling; a four-year-old boy who was killed after his grandfather’s Rottweiler jumped a fence and attacked the youngster.
Lake County attorney, Robert Edens “Bob” has successfully represented victims of dog attacks for the past 20 years. He has recovered millions of dollars in settlements for his clients. If you or someone you love has been injured in a dog attack, call Bob for a FREE, honest, no-hassle evaluation of your case. Bob will sit down with you and go over your case is detail and explain your options in easy-to-understand terms. So call for your free, no-obligation consultation. The call is FREE, but the advice may be priceless.

Bob will Fight to Win Your Case and Get You the MONEY You Deserve


The Top 10 Most Reported/Dangerous Dog Breeds

10. Dalmatian
9. Boxers
8. Perro de Presa Canario
7. Chow Chow
6. Doberman Pinschers
5. Alaskan Malamutes
4. Huskies
3. German Shepherds
2. Rottweilers
1. Pit Bulls

Dog Attack Injuries, Claims and Costs


According to the Insurance Information Institute:

  • Dog bites claims cost insurance companies 6.4% more in 2009 than in prior years.
  • The average dog bite claim exceeds $24,000.
  • In 2009, the average number of claims increased by 4.8%.
  • One-third of all dog attack claims against homeowners policies are related to dog attacks.
  • In 2009, injuries and damages related to dog attacks cost a total of $412 million in the U.S.
  • In the five years prior to 2009, claims rose steadily each year at an average rate of just under 5%.

Neighbors Warn of Pit Bull Attacks on The Rise

MORE DOG BITE INJURY INFORMATION

Attack Dog Injury Questions Dog Bite Articles Resources


What if I was on the owner’s property when I was bitten by a dog?

A person has the right to be safe from the attack of any dog. The fact that the dog has not bitten anyone before is not a defense to a claim under the Animal Control Act. As long as the person did not “provoke” the dog or other animal in any way, the owner can be held liable. In fact, if you are bitten by a dog on the owner’s property, the homeowner’s insurance policy should cover any damages as a result of a dog bite or attack.

What is my dog bite case worth?

The value of a dog bit case depends on many factors. Generally, medical expenses are not the benchmark that they are in many other types of personal injury cases. What is more important is the severity of the injuries. The most important factor is often the location and degree of disfigurement caused by the animal. For more details see similar case results click here.

How long do I have to pursue a dog bite case in Illinois?

Generally, you have two years from the date of the dog attack to file a complaint or you will be forever barred. However, there are exceptions. If the victim is a minor they must generally file a case within two years of reaching their 18th birthday. There are other exceptions as well, it is best not to let time pass before contacting an attorney.

Should I seek medical attention for a dog bite?

It is always good advice to immediately seek medical attention. This is true even if the bite doesn’t appear to be serious. Dogs have a substantial amount of germs and bacteria in their mouths which can cause infection. In addition, always report the bite to the authorities. This way there is a record made of the dog having a problem with biting. This is very useful to another person who may be attacked by the same dog.

What if my dog was attacked by another dog?

Although most of us think of our dogs as family members, they are not considered “people” under the law. However, any damage done to a dog as a result of another dog’s attack can result in damages that must be paid by the property coverage of the owner’s policy. In any event, the police should be called and a report taken.

What should I do if the insurance company wants me to make a statement?

I generally advise against volunteering a sworn statement to the insurance company. Before giving the statement ask if they have taken a statement from their insured and, if so, can you receive a copy before giving your statement? Also, ask what the policy limits are for their insured’s coverage. I bet you will not get a copy of the statement or answers to your questions. Why then should you answer their questions? However, only you can decide whether or not to give a recorded statement but before doing so, it is a good idea to get a free consultation from an attorney with experience in this practice area.

Bob has Convenient Offices to Meet You

The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens has offices in Chicago, Woodstock, Antioch, Waukegan, Grayslake & Barrington, for your convenience. Bob and his staff are dedicated to providing clients with top-quality and personalized service. Just take a few minutes to view the client testimonials and case histories to see for yourself that we stand out among the rest. All cases are taken on a contingency fee and there is never a charge for an initial FREE consultation.

Your injury caused by someone else’s negligence should not financially devastate your family and you for the rest of your life. We help our clients get a fair settlement for their injuries that cover doctor and hospital bills, rehabilitation, prolonged work leave-of-absence, permanent injury, disability, disfigurement, long-term medical care, and pain and suffering.

Call and make an appointment to come in and meet with Bob today. He will sit down with you personally and go over the facts of your case in detail. With the facts in hand, Bob will put his over 20 years of experience into providing you with a clear explanation of your options.

The consultation is FREE. You are under no obligation. We will not pressure you to sign an agreement, and if you do retain Bob and his staff to represent you, no fees will be charged until a fair settlement or verdict is secured on your behalf. The call is FREE, the advice may be priceless.

Bob and His Staff have Represented Injured Victims All Over Lake County


Robert Edens to protect your rights in the Chicagoland area and northern Illinois including the following communities: Fox Lake, Gurnee, Grayslake, Lake Villa, Ingleside, Lindenhurst, Round Lake, Round Lake Beach, Round Lake Heights, Round Lake Park, Waukegan, Zion, Lake in the Hills and McHenry. So call today for your FREE consultation at (847) 395-2200

Call today for a free consultation

(847) 395-2200