An animal attack or bite can cause severe injuries and possibly wrongful death for the victim. Thankfully, the state of Illinois maintains a level of control over animals. The law regulating animal attacks in Illinois is known as the Animal Control Act. According to the Animal Control Act, if a dog or other animal, without being provoked, attacks, or injures a peaceable person who is legally allowed to be where he or she is at the time of the attack, the owner of the animal is liable for civil damages to the victim caused by the attack.
What Is Included in the Animal Control Act?
The Animal Control Act applies to all animals, however, dogs are typically the most likely culprit in an attack. If a person’s pet were to attack another person, the Animal Control Act could hold the pet owner liable for the related injuries and damages. Damages include medical bills, pain and suffering, loss of normal life, disability, disfigurement, lost wages, and other damages. However, this does require proof if the victim wishes to pursue a claim against the animal owner.
The following elements must be present for the Animal Control Act to apply:
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An injury was caused by the defendant’s animal.
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There was a lack of provocation from the victim.
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The injured party had conducted peaceable actions.
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The injured person was present in a place where he or she had the right to be.
Without the above elements, a case regarding animal attacks could fall short in court, leaving dog bite victims without their deserved financial compensation.
Contact a Plainfield, IL Animal Attack Injury Attorney
Although a dog or any pet may be friendly with its owner and other familiar faces, it can pose a risk to others in some situations. An animal attack can result in significant and sometimes life-altering consequences for the victim. At Flaherty Law, LLC, our attorney works to secure adequate compensation for those suffering from severe bites. If you have been bitten by a dog or other animal and wish to pursue a claim for the injuries that you have sustained from the attack, contact our diligent Will County personal injury lawyers at 815-860-5702 for a free consultation.
Source:http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=1704&ChapterID=41