As the Madison County seat and home to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Edwardsville is a busy, growing community with a mix of families, students, and young professionals — many of them dog owners. Most dogs in Edwardsville are friendly, but any dog can bite when it feels threatened, cornered, or provoked. If you’ve suffered a dog bite injury here, West & Ginos, LLC can help you understand your legal options.
Dog bite cases involve more than just a trip to the ER. They often mean dealing with an insurance company that would rather minimize your claim than pay you what you’re owed. Our attorneys know how to push back.
To set up a free, no-obligation review of your case, contact our experienced dog bite attorneys today.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog attacks can cause a wide range of injuries, including:
- Puncture wounds and deep lacerations
- Fractures and broken bones
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Nerve damage
- Facial injuries
- Infections
- Traumatic brain injuries from falls during an attack
- Psychological harm, including PTSD and lasting anxiety around dogs
The dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy typically covers these damages, but insurers often look for reasons to dispute liability.
Strict Liability Under Illinois Law
Illinois law makes dog owners strictly liable for the injuries their dog causes. Under the Illinois Animal Control Act, 510 ILCS 5/16, if a dog attacks a person who is behaving peaceably, did not provoke the animal, and is lawfully present on the property where the bite occurs, the owner is liable for the resulting damages, regardless of whether the dog had bitten anyone before.
There are exceptions to this rule. An owner may not be liable if the victim was trespassing, was not behaving peaceably, or provoked the dog in some way. These exceptions are frequently disputed in dog bite claims, which is why legal representation matters.
Negligence-Based Dog Bite Claims
In addition to strict liability, victims may also bring a negligence claim. This means showing the dog’s owner failed to act reasonably to prevent harm, such as failing to leash a dog with a known bite history or ignoring warning signs that a dog posed a danger to neighbors or visitors.
Injuries to Pets
If your pet was attacked by another dog while out for a walk in Edwardsville or at a local park, you may be entitled to recover veterinary expenses, and, if your pet was killed, its value.
Get Legal Help Today
If a dog bite has left you injured in Edwardsville, contact the Law Offices of West & Ginos, LLC today. We offer free, no-obligation consultations and will help you understand what your case may be worth.
