What Should I Do After a Dog Bite in Illinois?

 Posted on February 29, 2024 in Personal Injury

Dogs are popular companions for many people, and for the most part, interactions with dogs are no big deal. However, some dogs have behavioral issues that may cause them to bite, while others may bite as a result of owner negligence. When dog bites happen, it is natural to feel confusion about what to do, especially if you know the dog’s owner. In addition to contacting an experienced Illinois dog bite injury lawyer to handle a dog bite case, it is important to know what to do immediately after a dog bite occurs.

First Steps After a Dog Bite

Dog bites can be unexpected and may trigger panic, pain, and fear. It is important to remember to stay calm after a dog bite so you can take the necessary steps to document the attack and make sure medical care is received.

The first steps you should take after a dog bite include:

• Get away from the dog and not chasing the dog who bit you

• Immediately evaluate the dog bite wound, clean superficial wounds, and seek medical attention for all wounds especially wounds that will not stop bleeding

• Follow up with a doctor as necessary to make sure that the bite does not get infected

• Document the bite and all documentation about medical treatment received

• Find out if the dog that delivered a bite has been vaccinated for rabies, and call animal control if the dog was a stray

• File a police report or a report with animal control if necessary

• Get the insurance information from the owner of the dog that bit you

As soon as things are settled and your dog bite is taken care of medically, you can start the process of pursuing a claim against the owner of the dog who bit you.

When Is a Dog Owner Liable for My Injuries?

Under the Illinois Animal Control Act, a dog owner is liable for damages when their dog has bitten someone who did not provoke or otherwise trespass and put themselves in the dog’s way illegally. The dog’s owner will typically need to work with their insurance to cover the full cost of your dog bite injury, and he or she may personally be liable for any costs that the insurance does not cover.

Contact a Joliet, IL Dog Bite Injury Lawyer

Dog bites are scary, and they can be very serious in some situations. It is important to work with a Will County, IL dog bite injury attorney as you pursue a claim. We can help you navigate the process of receiving the compensation you deserve.

Contact McNamara Phelan McSteen, LLC at 815-727-0100 for a free consultation.