Dog Bites Can Cause Serious Injury

 Posted on December 00, 0000 in Illinois personal injury attorney

It can seem unfathomable to an animal lover that his or her beloved companion might be capable of inflicting life-changing harm. Many dogs, of course, will live out their lives without ever placing a person in any danger. Others, however, may attack without warning causing serious and potentially fatal injuries to an unsuspecting individual. Dog bites may also result in the animal’s owner being held liable for any and all injuries sustained as a result.

Dangerous Breeds

Research compiled from the United States and Canada by Merritt Clifton, editor of Animals 24-7, indicated that in the last 30 years, a large majority of dog bites and attacks are inflicted by a single category of breeds known as molosser dogs. This group of animals, which includes pit bulls, rottweilers, mastiffs, boxers, and sharpeis, was responsible for more than 85 percent of all attacks causing bodily harm.  Particularly striking is the fact that such breeds constitute less than 10 percent of the total dog population.

In 2014, dog bites and attacks resulted in 42 deaths in the United States. Pit bulls were responsible for 27 of those fatalities causing the breed to be considered among the most dangerous of any domesticated animal. Since 1982, nearly 3400 injuries, including more than 1350 to child victims, and almost 300 deaths have been attributed to pit bulls alone.

Illinois Liability Law

The state of Illinois requires dog owners to maintain responsibility for their animals at all times. Under the state’s Animal Control Act, the owner is liable for any injuries due to an unprovoked attack by his or her dog against “any person who is peaceably conducting himself or herself in any place where he or she may lawfully be.” While the act may provide some latitude for owners regarding dog bites which occur as a result of provocation or trespassing, dog owners, especially those with statistically more dangerous breeds must always exercise caution.

If you or your child has been the victim of a vicious dog attack, the resulting injuries can affect the rest of your life. Illinois provides compensation for many dog bite victims and a qualified lawyer can help you figure out where to start. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney in Orland Park today for a free consultation.