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Rockford Dog Bite Lawyers

Home / Rockford Dog Bite Lawyers

Rockford Dog Bite Lawyers

All dogs have the potential to bite, regardless of the breed. It is their instinct that drives them to do so, and is simply part of their nature. That does not mean dog bites cannot be prevented. Dog owners have a legal duty to train their dog not to bite, and to control and restrain their animal when they are around other people. Unfortunately, not all dog owners fulfill their legal duty, and their dogs can seriously injure someone when they bite and attack.

Dog bite injuries are different from others sustained in accidents. There is more likelihood that they will cause permanent disfigurement and scarring, and the chances of complications such as infections are greater. A dog bite attack can also instill a fear of the animal in victims, even when they previously loved dogs. If you or someone you love has been hurt, our Rockford dog bite lawyers can help you claim the damages you deserve.

What Does the Law Say About Dog Bites in Illinois?

Illinois used to be one of many states that followed the “one bite rule.” Under this law, victims could only hold dog owners liable for injuries if they were aware of the animal’s violent or aggressive tendencies. The Illinois Animal Control Act abolished this law and now, strict liability is used in dog bite cases in the state.

Under the strict liability law, victims do not have to prove that the dog owner was negligent. They do not have to prove that the owner failed to restrain the dog, or that the owner was aware of the dog’s violent tendencies. Victims must only prove that the dog bit them while they were peacefully and legally on a property.

Comparative Fault in Rockford

Generally speaking, dog bite victims cannot recover compensation if they provoke a dog into biting or attacking them. However, under the comparative fault law in the state, provocation alone may not bar someone completely from recovering damages. In Rockford, as throughout the rest of Illinois, you can still claim compensation as long as you are found to be less than 50% at fault.

For example, if you repeatedly and aggressively stuck your finger in front of a dog’s face, you may be found 100% liable if you are bitten or attacked. However, you may have unintentionally provoked the animal by sitting on their tail as you tried to sit down. While you did provoke the animal, you did so unintentionally. In this instance, you may only be assigned 20% of the fault. You can still claim damages, but any you receive will be reduced by the same 20% of fault.

Our Dog Bite Lawyers in Rockford Can Help with Your Case

At Brassfield & Krueger, Ltd., our Rockford dog bite lawyers know the serious injuries caused by dog bites and attacks. We also know how to help victims claim the compensation they deserve, and we can help you obtain a successful outcome, too. Call us now or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and to learn more about how we can help.

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For your convenience, we have offices in Rockford and Streator.