Illinois law holds dog owners responsible if their dog bites someone without provocation. This includes children. In Chicago, the law does not require you to prove the dog had bitten before or that the owner acted carelessly. However, a few exceptions could limit a dog bite claim.
If the child was trespassing or provoking the dog, the case could be harder to prove. However, courts treat young children differently when they consider provocation and trespassing. A very young child might not understand property limits or how their behavior could affect a dog, so they are less likely to be held partially responsible for their actions.
Parents can bring dog bite claims on behalf of their children in Illinois. A successful claim could provide money for medical treatment, emotional harm, and other related losses.
Common Dog Bite Injuries Affecting Children
Children often suffer more severe injuries from dog bites than adults. Their small size makes them more likely to get bitten on the face, head, or neck. They also might not know how to read a dog’s body language or understand when a dog feels scared or cornered. Even friendly dogs can bite when they are stressed or startled. Here are some common examples of injuries that show up in dog bite cases involving children:
- Puncture wounds
- Deep cuts and lacerations
- Facial injuries
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Nerve damage
- Torn muscles or tendons
- Eye injuries
- Broken bones
- Infections (including rabies or sepsis)
- Emotional trauma, such as anxiety or fear of dogs
Steps to Take If Your Child Gets Bitten by a Dog
If a dog bites your child, you need to act quickly to protect your child’s health and your legal rights. Your child’s condition should be your priority, but what you do after seeking medical care can affect whether you can hold the dog’s owner responsible. Here’s what you should do:
- Take your child to the doctor for a thorough examination and treatment.
- Report the bite to Chicago Animal Care and Control as soon as possible.
- Get the name and contact details of the dog’s owner or the person in charge of the dog.
- Ask for proof of the dog’s rabies vaccine and other health records.
- Take clear photos of your child’s injuries and the area where the bite happened.
- Write down what happened, including the date, time, and anything witnesses said.
- Keep copies of all medical records, bills, and receipts related to your child’s treatment.
- Avoid talking to the dog owner’s insurance company before you speak with a lawyer.
- Contact a dog bite attorney to discuss your legal options and next steps.
When to Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer
You should contact a lawyer after any dog bite incident involving a child. Even if you feel unsure about whether you have a case, a lawyer can explain your legal options. Dog bite cases have time limits, and waiting too long could weaken or eliminate your right to take legal action.
A dog bite lawyer can also deal with the dog owner’s insurance company and protect your rights during the claims process. Many law firms, including Your Chicago Lawyer, offer free consultations, so you have nothing to lose from asking questions.
If your child has injuries or emotional trauma from a dog bite, speaking with a lawyer can help you understand what to do next and whether you can pursue a claim.
Get Legal Guidance from Your Chicago Lawyer
If a dog bit your child in Chicago, don’t wait to take action. Contact Your Chicago Lawyer today for a free consultation. We can review the details of your situation, answer your questions, and help you decide what to do next.