Dog Bite

Attorneys Serving the Chicagoland Area

If You’ve Been Attacked by a Dog, We’re Here to Help

A dog bite can leave more than just physical scars. It can cause trauma, lasting injuries, and unexpected medical bills—especially when children or older adults are involved. If you or a loved one has been bitten or attacked by a dog, Illinois law gives you the right to seek compensation.

At Stiberth, Scarlati & Boudreau, LLC, we represent individuals in Elgin and the greater Chicagoland area who’ve suffered from dog bites and animal attacks. We’ll guide you through your options and help you hold negligent owners accountable so you can focus on healing.

Illinois Dog Bite Laws: What You Should Know

In Illinois, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries their pets cause—even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. This means that as long as you were lawfully on public or private property and didn’t provoke the dog, the owner may be responsible for your injuries.

You may be entitled to compensation for:

Emergency care & medical expenses

Stitches, surgery, or infection treatment

Permanent scarring or disfigurement

Pain, emotional trauma, or PTSD

Time missed from work or school

Ongoing counseling or therapy

Why Work With a Dog Bite Lawyer?

We Investigate Quickly and Thoroughly

We help collect medical records, incident reports, witness statements, and past complaints (if any) to build a clear case for liability.

We Deal with the Insurance Company

Many homeowner’s insurance policies cover dog bite claims—but getting fair compensation isn’t automatic. We handle negotiations and ensure you’re not pressured into a low settlement.

We Understand the Impact

Dog attacks can lead to lasting psychological and physical injuries. We pursue full damages—not just what the insurance company thinks is “reasonable.”

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Dog Bite Claims FAQ

  • Do I have a case even if the dog never bit anyone before?

    Yes. Under Illinois’s strict liability statute, the owner can still be held responsible even if the dog had no prior history of aggression.

  • Who is responsible for paying the claim?

    Most dog bite claims are covered under the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. We handle all communication with insurers on your behalf.

  • What if my child was bitten?

    Children are particularly vulnerable, and injuries can be severe. Illinois law provides strong protections for minors. We take extra care to pursue compensation that reflects both physical and emotional impacts.

  • How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Illinois?

    You generally have two years from the date of the attack to file a claim. But the sooner you speak with an attorney, the better we can preserve evidence and protect your case.