Skip to main content

Dog Bite Lawyers in Belleville, IL

As man’s best friend, dogs are the most popular pets in the world. However, in the wrong hands, these canines can be downright dangerous. Dogs of all breeds bite and are capable of causing tremendous harm.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a dog attack, you may be entitled to compensation. Our dog bite attorneys will take your claim seriously and help you receive compensation for your injury. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation and discuss your legal options.

Contact Us

What To Do After a Dog Bite

Understanding your next steps after a dog bite is crucial for ensuring you receive compensation for your injuries.

Report the Incident

Contact the police immediately to file a report, as it may be crucial for your personal injury claim. The officer will provide factual evidence and a case number, which you should record for your records. Also, gather the names and contact information of the dog owner and any witnesses at the scene.

Seek Medical Attention

Prompt medical care is crucial after a dog bite. Even minor bites can lead to severe infections or rabies if the skin is broken. If possible, ask the dog owner if the animal has had a rabies vaccination. Proof of vaccination can help you avoid costly rabies shots at the hospital.

Ensure a doctor documents your injuries, including the reason for your visit and the condition of any wounds. This medical record will be vital for supporting your personal injury claim.

Document Your Dog Bite Wounds

There is a reason they say a picture is worth a thousand words. If you can safely take pictures, capture images of your injuries, the attacking dog, and the incident location. The more pictures you take, the better; this documentation will be essential for your dog bite lawyer when building your case.

Medical bills, receipts, and other information critical to the interaction are essential to keep as well. A rule of thumb is to be over-prepared and keep the information handy until the claim is settled.

Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney

Do not communicate with the animal’s owner or their insurance company without first speaking with a lawyer. Having a personal injury attorney on your side helps you receive maximum compensation for your injuries after the attack. Lawyers experienced with dog bite cases will ensure your voice is heard and your rights are protected in court.

Why You Need To Consult an Attorney

Personal injury claims can be made against the dog owner or a third party if their negligence caused the injury. The process of filing a claim for a dog bite can be challenging, especially without legal expertise. After a dog attack, focus on healing and recovering; don’t stress about handling this complex situation alone. 

How Nelson & Nelson Will Help

Whether the dog owner was present at the time of the attack or the dog was wandering freely, our attorneys in Belleville can help. We will identify the dog’s owners and check if the animal has a history of attacks by investigating the neighborhood and reviewing veterinary records.

These claims require the diligence and knowledge of experienced lawyers with superior resources. At Nelson & Nelson, we work with respected medical experts who can determine if you need plastic surgery or recommend other treatments. These professionals can help us thoroughly evaluate and support your claim. 

We will handle settlement negotiations on your behalf and demand the proper compensation for your injuries. If a fair settlement cannot be reached in negotiation, we will represent you in court and fight for what you deserve!

Injuries Caused by Dog Attacks

Dogs most often bite a person’s arm, hand, leg, foot, neck, or head. Being the victim of a dog attack can result in painful and severe or life-altering injuries.

Common injuries in dog attacks include:

  • Cuts and scratches
  • Puncture wounds
  • Torn muscles
  • Damaged blood vessels
  • Dislocations
  • Fractures
  • Nerve injuries
  • Amputations
  • Head and skull injuries
  • Emotional trauma from the injury

The most common victims of dog bites are children, older adults, mail carriers, and delivery workers. An animal attack can be one of the scariest and most traumatizing events a person goes through. Children and adults may develop a lifelong fear of dogs, causing anxiety during any future interactions with dogs.

Compensation for a Dog Bite Injury

The aftermath of the incident can be uncertain and overwhelming both financially and emotionally. If you have suffered injuries from a dog bite, you may be entitled to compensation to cover:

  • Reimbursement for medical bills, prescription medications, and physical therapy
  • The estimated cost of future medical treatment
  • Current and future lost wages
  • Pain and suffering
  • Disability
  • Scarring or disfigurement

Contact Our Dog Bite Lawyers in Belleville, IL

Dog attacks are serious, and the fear and damage they create can last a lifetime. If you or someone close to you has been injured in a dog attack, contact the qualified dog bite attorneys at Nelson & Nelson to schedule your free case evaluation. Our law firm in Belleville can help you preserve your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact Us
Nelson & Nelson Attorneys at Law logo