The Help You Need After A Dog Bite Or Attack

While many dogs are good family dogs, not all dogs make good pets. Unfortunately, dog bites in Illinois are more common and cause more injury than we want to think.

At Cassian & Carter LLC in Joliet, we know it can be a tough decision to report a dog bite or animal attack. However, it is very important that you do. Once a dog seriously bites one person, especially a child, the chances are good it will bite another, and another. In some cases, the attacks become more aggressive.

Three Steps To Take After A Dog Bite Injury

There are three things to do right away:

1. Call the police. By filing a report, it will go on public record. Law enforcement can also help you verify ownership, insurance and even facilitate getting the health records, such as rabies vaccinations, of the animal.
2. After you clean any wounds, photograph them. Take down the names and contact information of anyone who saw the attack. Photographs are the best evidence for your case.
3. After you, your child or another family member has received medical attention, contact an attorney who works in personal injury.

At Cassian & Carter, we handle many dog bite cases each year. We will tell you straightforward if you have a case and what to do next. Your meeting with us is free. In fact, you pay nothing unless we take your case and win a negotiated settlement (out of court) or a verdict (in court).

If Your Child Was Bitten By A Dog

Unfortunately, because of their small stature and playful nature, children are most likely to be bitten and attacked by dogs. Because children are low to the ground, it is easier for a dog to bite their face. These bites can permanently damage eyes, noses, cheeks and lips. Hands are also frequently bitten by dogs. If nerves are damaged, this can lead to lifelong issues. Any time a child is bitten by a dog, seek medical attention, report the dog and have it tested for rabies, and speak with an attorney who is experienced in Illinois personal injury.

Catastrophic Injuries Suffered From A Dog Attack

Large dogs have large teeth. Puncture wounds and tearing are often the results of a serious attack. Medical care and surgeries can, in some cases, help ameliorate infections and help victims to be able to lead a “normal” life.

In some cases, nerve damage can be minimized or even reversed with ongoing medical help. However, a percentage of victims will undergo amputation, suffer from permanent paralysis and have lifelong mobility, disfigurement, appearance or vision issues.

The “unseen” injuries that come after a vicious attack are the emotional ones. Many victims suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), nightmares, depression and social withdrawal. These emotional traumas may last weeks, months or can unfortunately be lifelong and debilitating.

Get Dog Bite Guidance Right Away

We understand that after a dog bite or attack, you need immediate answers. We are here to ensure you get the support and guidance you need. Call 815-714-7118 and tell us what happened. We will make sure you understand what is happening from the outset and simplify the process. You can also send an inquiry email with a brief summary of what happened so that we can get in touch with you upon receipt.