Orland Park Dog Bite Attorney

Lawyer Helping Dog Bite Victims Pursue Compensation in Orland Park, IL

While dogs may be referred to as "man's best friend," they can also be vicious. Even if a dog has never behaved aggressively in the past, it may unexpectedly bite or attack someone. These incidents can cause serious injuries that affect people both physically and emotionally. In Illinois, the law is clear, stating that dog owners and others who harbor or care for dogs can be held accountable for the actions of their animals. The principle of "strict liability" applies, and the state's laws mandate that if a dog bites or injures someone without provocation, the dog's owner is liable for the resulting damages, regardless of the dog's history.

At Issa Law, LLC, we understand the ways dog bites can affect victims, and we are dedicated to helping people take steps to address the harm they have suffered in these situations. Attorney Khaled Issa can provide legal representation to ensure that a dog's owner or other responsible parties will be held liable for a victim's injuries and damages. He will fight to recover full and fair compensation for a person who has been injured in an animal attack.

Types of Injuries from Dog Bites and Attacks

People who are attacked by dogs may experience a wide range of serious injuries, some of which may have long-lasting or permanent effects. These injuries can vary in severity depending on the size and breed of the dog, the location of the bite, and the duration of the attack. Common injuries include:

• Puncture Wounds: Dog bites often result in deep wounds that can penetrate the skin and damage underlying tissues, muscles, and even bones. These wounds can be painful, and they may require stitches or other medical interventions.
• Lacerations and Tearing: Dogs have powerful jaws that can cause severe gashes or tearing of the skin and soft tissues. These injuries may occur when a dog shakes its head while biting, leading to jagged, deep wounds that can be difficult to treat and may leave significant scarring.
• Fractures: In some cases, the force of a dog's bite or the impact of being knocked down by a dog can result in broken bones. These injuries are especially common among children who are attacked by dogs, and they are more likely to suffer fractures in the hands, arms, or face during an attack.
• Infections: Dog bites can introduce bacteria or viruses into the body, leading to serious infections such as cellulitis, sepsis, or even rabies if the dog was not properly vaccinated. Infections from dog bites can be life-threatening if they are not treated promptly and appropriately.
• Nerve Damage: Severe bites, particularly those on the hands, face, or limbs, can result in damage to nerves. This can lead to loss of sensation, impaired movement, or chronic pain, and surgical repair or long-term rehabilitation may be required.
• Scarring and Disfigurement: Dog bites to the face, neck, and other visible areas can leave permanent scars. Victims of dog attacks may require reconstructive surgery, and they may also suffer from psychological trauma due to changes in their appearance.
• Emotional Trauma: In addition to physical injuries, dog attacks can cause significant emotional and psychological trauma. Victims may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and a long-term fear of dogs or going outside. Therapy and counseling are often necessary to address these issues.

Potential Compensation for Dog Bite Victims

Victims of animal attacks may be entitled to various forms of compensation, which may include:

• Medical Expenses: These include the costs of emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical treatment related to dog bite injuries.
• Lost Wages: If injuries prevent a person from working, they may be entitled to compensation for the income lost during their recovery period. In cases of long-term disability, a person may also seek compensation for future lost earnings.
• Pain and Suffering: This form of compensation accounts for the physical pain that a person has suffered, as well as the emotional distress they have experienced in the aftermath of a dog bite. This can include compensation for ongoing psychological trauma, such as PTSD or anxiety.
• Disfigurement and Scars: Victims who suffer permanent disfigurement may receive additional compensation to address the impact these injuries have on their quality of life and their self-esteem.
• Property Damage: If the dog attack resulted in damage to personal property, such as clothing, eyeglasses, or a bicycle, a victim may be entitled to reimbursement for the cost of repairs or replacement.

Contact Our Orland Park Dog Bite Lawyer

If you have been bitten or harmed by a dog or attacked by another animal, our experienced attorney can help you take steps to recover the full compensation you deserve. Contact our office today at 708-966-2408 for a consultation. We have the experience and resources necessary to help ensure that you will receive the maximum compensation for the losses you have suffered.