According to recently released data from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), pet ownership is on the rise in the United States. Unsurprisingly, dogs continue to be the most popular pet. However, the country has seen a large increase in the number of untraditional pets, including chickens, lizards, and even miniature donkeys. As a percentage, the AVMA has indicated that 49% of households in Illinois own some type of pet. Given the large number of animals in our society, it should come as no surprise that accidents and animal attacks are not a rare occurrence.
When animal-related injuries occur, the law in Illinois can be extremely beneficial for injured victims. In Illinois, if a dog, or other animal, without provocation, attacks, attempts to attack, or injures any person who is peaceably conducting himself or herself in any place where he or she may lawfully be, the owner of such dog or other animal should be found liable for civil damages to such person for the full amount of any injuries. Notably, this law does not distinguish between mere accidental injuries involving animals, or vicious attacks. As long as the injured victim did not provoke the animal, or assume any unreasonable risks, civil liability should attach.
Often times, insurance policies may come into play to cover animal-related injuries and attacks for liable property owners and/or renters. However, some of these properties contain exclusions for exotic animals or certain dog breeds. If you have been injured as a result of an animal attack, or the negligence of an animal owner, you should immediately contact our experienced Chicago dog bite lawyer to discuss your rights, and ensure you obtain proper compensation for all of your injuries.
The content of this blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute or establish an attorney-client relationship, nor constitute legal advice. If you wish to discuss any further aspect of the material contained herein, please contact any attorney at Eames Law Group, Ltd.
