Chicago Dog Bite Lawyers Community

Chicago

Dog Bite Lawyers

Seeking Justice for Animal Attack Victims

Chicago is a city of dog lovers, with thousands of pets sharing our sidewalks, parks, and apartment buildings. However, when an owner fails to control their animal, a walk through Lincoln Park or a visit to a neighbor in Bucktown can turn into a traumatic event. At Shindler & Shindler, we represent victims of dog bites and animal attacks throughout the city. We understand the physical and emotional scars these injuries leave behind, and we know how to navigate the specific legal requirements of a Chicago injury claim.

Why Choose Shindler & Shindler for Your Chicago Case

We are local advocates who understand the trauma of an animal attack.

Immediate Investigation: We move quickly to identify the dog owner, secure witness statements from neighbors, and preserve any available surveillance footage.
Compassionate Representation: We prioritize your recovery and handle all communication with insurance adjusters so you can focus on healing.
No Win, No Fee: You do not pay us any attorney fees unless we successfully recover money for you.

High-Risk Areas for Dog Bites in Chicago

While an attack can happen anywhere, certain areas of the city see higher concentrations of dog and human interaction. Our firm handles cases occurring in:

Public Parks and Trails: Including incidents at the Montrose Dog Beach, Wicker Park, and along the Lakefront Trail.
Shared Residential Spaces: Accidents in high-rise elevators in the South Loop or shared courtyards in Lakeview three-flats.
Neighborhood Sidewalks: Attacks occurring in dense residential zones like Logan Square and Roscoe Village where narrow walkways increase the risk of proximity issues.
Outdoor Dining Areas: Incidents at dog-friendly patios and “sidewalk cafes” across the city’s many entertainment districts.

Understanding the Illinois Animal Control Act

In Chicago, dog bite cases are primarily governed by the Illinois Animal Control Act. This is a "strict liability" statute, which is often more favorable to victims than the laws in other states. Under this Act, a dog owner is liable for injuries if:

The dog or animal attacked, attempted to attack, or injured the person.
The person was behaving peaceably.
The person was in a place where they had a legal right to be.

Unlike some jurisdictions, Illinois does not have a “one-bite rule.” This means you do not have to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous before the attack occurred. Whether the incident involved a stray in Englewood or a leashed pet in the Gold Coast, the owner is generally responsible for the damages caused.

Common Injuries and Long-Term Damages

A dog bite is often more than a minor wound. Because of the risk of infection and permanent scarring, these cases require thorough medical documentation. We work with clients to recover compensation for:

Lacerations and Puncture Wounds: Which often require emergency care at local trauma centers like Northwestern Memorial or Advocate Illinois Masonic.
Nerve Damage and Infection: Requiring long-term treatment or specialized surgery.
Permanent Scarring and Disfigurement: Especially critical in cases involving children, where future reconstructive surgeries may be necessary.
Psychological Trauma: Including PTSD and a lasting fear of animals.

In the most severe cases involving wrongful death, we represent families in seeking accountability for their loss.

Navigating Your Claim in Cook County

Filing a dog bite lawsuit in Chicago involves specific local steps. Our team manages every detail of the process:

Reporting to Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC): We ensure the incident is properly documented with the city to establish a formal record of the attack.
Identifying Homeowners’ Insurance: Most dog bite settlements are paid through the owner’s homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policies. We track down this coverage to ensure there are funds available for your recovery.
Litigating in the Daley Center: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to the Richard J. Daley Center to fight for a jury verdict.

Our experience in Chicago courts allows us to anticipate the defense tactics used by insurance companies, such as claiming “provocation” to avoid paying for your personal injuries.

Contact a Chicago Dog Bite Attorney Today

If you or your child has been injured by a dog, do not wait to seek legal advice. Evidence can disappear and memories of the event can fade. Contact Shindler & Shindler online or call our office today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We are ready to stand by your side and fight for the justice you deserve in Chicago.

Client Testimonials

I’ve known Rob for over 20 years, and during that time, I’ve watched him and his brother Keith help countless people navigate their challenges. Referring someone to a professional is always a big deal, but I’ve never hesitated to send my family and friends to these two.

I was in an auto accident and felt like nobody was listening to my concerns. When Rob got recommended to me, I was expecting another half-hearted look at my case and was nervous about going. The entire first meeting, I had felt like I was meeting with an old friend.

From the start, Rob and Keith demonstrated professionalism, expertise, and a genuine dedication to my case. They took the time to explain every detail clearly, ensuring I fully understood each step, which gave me great confidence throughout the process. What truly stood out was their unwavering commitment to my success.

Case Results

$12M

Railroad Worker

Railroad worker who was permanently injured after not being provided proper protective equipment.

$850K

Injured Illinois Truck Driver

Injured Illinois truck driver in an accident in TN and hit by an Iowa licensed driver.