If you’ve been attacked by a dog, it’s crucial to take action. A dog bite attorney will aggressively pursue compensation and fight for a proper settlement. With over 30 years of personal injury litigation experience, Cullotta Bravo Law Group has the tools necessary to achieve a favorable outcome. Contact us at 630-898-7800 or visit staging-cullottalaw.kinsta.cloud/contact-us to schedule your free consultation.
Dog Bites are Traumatic Events
Nobody expects to be bitten by a dog, but the reality is dog attacks are a common occurrence. Dog attacks cost insurance companies millions of dollars in settlements and liability claims every year. Not only do dog bites cause physical injuries, but they can also lead to long-term issues. Dog bite victims frequently suffer from mounting medical debt, costly lost wages, and lengthy battles with insurance companies.
Don’t be left paying for someone else’s mistake. By utilizing a dog bite lawyer, you can speed up the settlement process and improve your chances of a positive outcome. We provide Aurora and Chicago area residents with expert representation that gets them compensation for all of their dog bite-related expenses.
Dog Bite Law in Illinois
Illinois Statute 510 ILCS 5/16 outlines how victims can hold dog owners liable for their dog’s attacks. Illinois is a “strict liability” state, meaning a dog owner must pay damages that cover the full amount of a victim’s injuries.
According to the statute, victims must be able to prove the following items to hold the dog owner legally liable for a dog bite:
- – The dog attacked or attempted to attack or injure you
- – You had a lawful right to be in the place of the attack
- – You did not provoke the dog
Under Illinois law, you generally have two years from the date of a dog bite to file a case. Because it is a strict liability state, you can seek compensation for all costs related to your injury. You are entitled to recover:
- – Medical expenses related to your injury
- – Lost earnings or wages
- – Future lost earnings
- – Damages including reduced quality of life, pain and suffering, and disfigurement
Dealing with Insurance
The path to a dog bite settlement contains many roadblocks. While proving liability against a dog owner might seem straightforward, insurance carriers will fight you every step of the way. These companies may use deceitful strategies to avoid paying you a full settlement.
Insurance adjusters use many tactics to reduce their liability. They might reach out to you to get an official statement about the attack, have you sign a medical release, or to offer an unusually low settlement. Many dog bite victims are unaware that any information given to the insurance company can be used against them. You may destroy your ability to seek compensation for your injuries during a conversation with the adjuster.
A dog bite attorney can facilitate communication between the insurance company and fight back against their deceitful tactics. Peter D. Cullotta spent years working for an aggressive insurance defense firm. This experience gave him valuable insights that help him seek maximum compensation for his clients. He knows how to navigate communication with insurance companies to receive large settlement offers for his clients. With Cullotta Bravo Law Firm by your side, you will have the ability to get the compensation you deserve.
Your Dog Bite Attorney
Dog bites can occur at a moment’s notice. They don’t just disrupt your life, but they can lead to a painful recovery filled with unforeseen expenses. Don’t bear the brunt for someone else’s mistake. No matter the type of attack, it’s crucial to speak with a lawyer to get a proper settlement.
As dedicated dog bite attorneys, we have a track record of success fighting for dog bite victims. For decades, we’ve fought back against insurance companies that offer unfair settlements. Our seasoned dog bite attorneys have the experience and knowledge necessary to get you a favorable outcome.
The law offices of Cullotta Bravo Law will give you the representation you need to get compensation promptly. We work on a contingent fee basis, so you only pay attorney fees once you reach a settlement. Contact us today at 630-898-7800 to schedule your free initial consultation.
