Dog bite cases are often more complicated than they first appear. Injuries can be severe, the circumstances are frequently emotional, and responsibility is often disputed early by insurers or homeowners.

Illinois law recognizes that dog owners have a duty to control their animals and prevent them from causing harm. When that duty is breached, injured individuals may have legal rights even when the dog has never bitten before.

At Ferrigno Law Firm, we approach dog bite cases with careful attention to both the facts of the incident and the legal standards that apply.

Understanding Dog Bite Claims in Illinois

Unlike many other personal injury claims, dog bite cases in Illinois are governed by specific statutory rules. Liability does not depend on proving that the owner knew the dog was dangerous or had a prior history of aggression.

Instead, these cases often turn on whether the injured person was lawfully present, whether they acted peaceably, and whether the dog caused injury without provocation.

Because of this framework, early statements, police reports, and insurer communications can significantly affect how a claim is evaluated.

Common Issues in Dog Bite Cases

Dog bite claims frequently involve disputes over:

• Whether the injured person was lawfully on the property

• Allegations of provocation or trespass

• The location of the incident and who had control of the dog

• Insurance coverage under homeowner or renter policies

• The nature and permanence of scarring or nerve damage

• Injuries to children, which often raise additional concerns

In many cases, insurers attempt to minimize claims by reframing events or focusing on technical defenses.

Our Approach

We focus on preserving the factual record early and managing the case with an understanding of the statutory framework involved. That includes:

• Reviewing incident reports and witness statements

• Evaluating the circumstances of the encounter

• Coordinating medical documentation and injury assessment

• Managing insurer communications from the outset

• Positioning the case for fair resolution or litigation when necessary

Experience You Can Rely On

Our firm has its roots in a longstanding local practice that has served this area for more than fifty years. We bring that experience to dog bite cases with direct attorney involvement from the start.

If you have questions about a dog bite injury, you will speak directly with the attorney handling the matter. Every time.