Category: Dog Bites

The Consequences of a Bite

This wasn’t the first time he bit, but this may have been the bite seen around the world. It was during a June 2014 World Cup soccer match that a player for Uruguay, Luis Suarez, allegedly bit an Italian soccer player on the shoulder. Suarez was sanctioned for his actions by the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA). The initial penalty imposed by FIFA was that Suarez could not play soccer for four months. However, that penalty is being appealed and could be changed.

Suarez Is Not a Dog, But Any Kind of Bite Has Consequences

Suarez did not immediately apologize or admit any wrongdoing. However, as a human, he has the ability to understand why his actions are potentially harmful and wrong.

A dog might not understand the consequences of his actions or learn from previous mistakes. However, the effect of a dog bite can be just as significant as a human bite and the consequences for the dog and dog owner may be severe.

In Chicago, the consequences of a dog bite may include:

• The dog owner paying for the dog bite victim’s injuries
• The City requiring that the dog be kept securely confined on the owner’s property
• The City requiring that the dog wear a muzzle when not on the owner’s property
• The City requiring that the owner display a “Warning – Dangerous Animal – Keep Away” sign on his property
• The City requiring that the dog be euthanized

 

Other consequences may also be enforced.

Have You Been Injured in a Dog Bite Attack?

Whether a dog bit you while you were taking a walk near your home in Austin, at a neighbor’s house in Lawndale, or elsewhere in Chicago, it is important to understand what should happen next—not only for the dog but also for you.

You may be entitled to damages and to a fair recovery. Please start an online chat with us now to find out more.

 

 

Most of us love dogs. They are our friends, companions, and for some, members of our families. The image of a cuddly dog snuggling up with our children at night may bring a smile to our faces. But unnecessary dog bite attacks ruin that playful image of man’s best friend. We may be left wondering “what now?” if we become victims of such terrible attacks. Scars, both physical and emotional, may last a lifetime. When this happens, it’s important to speak to an experienced Chicago dog bite lawyer about your legal rights.

Here are Five Simple Tips to help prevent an Illinois Dog Bite attack from occurring.

1. Never Treat a Dog Unkindly.

Do not ever hit or kick a dog. Aggression leads to more aggression. A dog’s ears, tail, and paws can be very sensitive areas on their body, so don’t pull on these unless you are very familiar with the dog and its’ likes and dislikes.

2. Leave a Dog Alone While it is Busy. 

Give plenty of space to dogs that are busy with small puppies, or dogs that are eating or playing with toys. The protective nature of animals can put them on guard if they feel threatened in any way around humans.

3. Stay Calm.

Avoid shouting around dogs, and always try to speak calmly or softly. Dogs can sense tense or stressful situations and often respond accordingly. Loud noises or aggressive language could trigger a violent response from the dog.

4. Don’t Approach a Dog You Don’t Know.

Leave service dogs alone. They may seem like beautiful, fascinating animals, but they have been specifically trained to work for their owners. Any other individual could appear as a threat to the dog. Do not approach dogs that are tied up in a yard. Dogs restrained by chains or ropes are more likely to bite due to increased stress, protectiveness, and vulnerability caused by the restraints. If you want to meet a new dog, always ask the owner for permission first before approaching the animal. If given the “ok,” hold your hand gently out for the dog to sniff your scent. Then, give the dog a gentle rub or scratch under the chin first before petting anywhere else on the dog’s body.

5. Be Still.

If you are outside, and a loose, aggressive dog approaches, stand straight, tall, and still. Avoid making eye contact with the dog, and don’t make any sudden movements. If a dog feels threatened or vulnerable, it often will act defensively. If you’re on the ground when an aggressive dog approaches, don’t get up. Curl into a ball, like a rock, and pull your knees into your chest. Cover your ears with your hands and do not make eye contact with the dog. Not only will this protect the vulnerable parts of your body in the event of an Illinois dog bite attack, but it also demonstrates that you are not a threat to the animal.

If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Chicago and have suffered serious injuries as a result, you may be entitled to compensation from the dog owner. The best way to know what the law allows is to speak with an experienced Chicago dog bite attorney about your case. One easy call to our personal injury lawyers at 312-332-1400 may be the right step toward getting the legal justice you deserve.