Spiros Law attorney, Andrew Purcell, was recently interviewed on the local radio station, 92.7 The Valley, in Kankakee. Listen to the full interview on the above audio.
People around the world enjoy the loving companionship of dogs and Summer weather brings nicer days to take your pets for walks outside. With an increased animal presence, it is important to take the time to educate yourself about what to do in the event that you or a loved one are bitten by an animal. Unfortunately, when people improperly train or abuse their pets it can result in an innocent person getting injured. It is important to always treat pets with the correct affection and care to avoid aggressive behavior. More than 800,000 people in the United States are injured by a dog each year. The owner of a dog the harms someone can face legal obligations because of Illinois strict liabilities. Illinois laws strictly require pet owners to anticipate and prevent bites. As a bystander, always ask permission before petting another person’s dog. As an owner, one should follow the suggestions below:
- Treat dogs with affection and care
- Keep pets on a leash while in public
- Keep pets away from small children
- Keep pets fenced in or contained on the owner’s property
Andrew took his opportunity on air to emphasize the steps that you should take if you are harmed by an animal. Your first step should be to call the police to make a police report. In the event your case goes to trial, a police report will help everyone recall the events exactly how they happened. Law enforcement will also help you get in contact with the local Animal Control to make a Bite Report. Animal Control and law enforcement will help you retrieve the animal’s records to verify the medical history of the animal and will be able to confirm they are up to date on all their shots. Next, one should acquire the necessary medical attention as soon as possible. Dog bites can cause immense pain, long term or permanent damage, and even death. Make sure to take pictures of the injury so they can be added to the reports made by the police and Animal Control. If a dog bite breaks the skin seek medical attention as soon as possible to avoid infection and to acquire vaccinations if necessary to your situation. If you are unsure if your wound is infected, look for these signs: redness, swelling, increased pain, and oozing. A medical professional should look at these symptoms right away. Finally, you can contact a Spiros Law attorney so we can help relieve some of the stress and make sure your case is being properly pursued.
If you or a loved one are bitten by a dog or other animal, you may be entitled to compensation for your suffering from the owner of the animal or the property owner. Spiros Law, P.C. attorneys will help relieve the stress and manage all the moving parts so that you can relax and focus on a full recovery. If you have been bitten by an animal but aren’t sure you have a case, contact us at (815) 929-9292 to schedule a free, non-binding consultation. Our attorneys at Spiros Law, P.C. are here for you every step of the way.
