One of the first questions many victims ask after a dog bite attack is whether insurance will cover their economic and non-economic damages. In most Chicago dog bite cases, the answer is yes. However, the type of insurance involved and the overall facts of the case will play a major role in how much compensation is actually available.
Illinois law strongly protects dog bite victims. Unlike some states, Illinois follows a strict liability statute for dog attacks. This means the dog owner is usually responsible for the injuries their animals causes, regardless of whether the dog had ever shown signs of aggression before. Once liability is established, insurance coverage often becomes the primary source of financial recovery. Make sure to speak with an experienced dog bite injury attorney in Chicago for legal guidance.
Homeowners and Renters Insurance Often Provide Coverage
In many cases, a dog owner’s homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policy will cover a dog bite claim. These policies typically include personal liability coverage that applies when someone is injured on the property. This coverage may pay for:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Follow-up care and rehabilitation
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
However, insurance companies are for-profit businesses that want to make as much money as possible by raking in premiums. They will work hard to limit their liability in a dog bite case in whichever way possible.
What if the Attack Happens Outside the Home?
Dog bites do not always happen inside a residence. For example, many attacks occur in public spaces like parks. In these cases, it’s still possible that at least one insurance policy will provide a source of compensation for victims.
Further, even when the dog owner is uninsured, recovery may still be possible through:
- A landlord’s liability policy
- A business insurance policy
- The victim’s own health insurance or umbrella coverage
It’s important to get legal advice after being attacked by a dog so that you can thoroughly understand your options and your best path forward for maximum compensation.
Why Choose Meyers & Flowers for a Chicago Dog Bite Insurance Claim?
Hiring an experienced Chicago dog bite lawyer will allow you to level the playing field with the insurance company and force them to take your claim seriously. With over $6 billion recovered for our clients and 100+ years of experience handling personal injury cases just like these, the personal injury lawyers in Chicago from Meyers & Flowers has the resources and experience to take on powerful insurers and win big.
We help clients in these circumstances by:
- Identifying every available insurance policy
- Challenging improper coverage denials
- Investigating the dog’s history and ownership
- Handling all insurer communications
- Building strong cases for full and fair compensation
- Taking cases to trial when insurers refuse to act reasonably
Our law firm is highly regarded throughout the local legal community, and insurance companies know our name well. They won’t be able to get away with a lowball settlement offer if you hire us.
Set Up a Free Initial Consultation With Our Chicago Dog Bite Lawyers
If you or a loved one were injured in a dog attack in Chicago, Illinois, insurance coverage may be available even if the situation feels unclear right now. However, determining what policies apply and how much coverage exists requires legal and insurance experience.
That’s exactly what Meyers & Flowers can provide you with. Call (630) 232-6333 today or contact us online to get started with a free consultation.