Dog Bite Insurance Coverage: What Illinois Dog Bite Victims Need to Know

Dog bites can have serious consequences, leading to severe injuries and costly medical treatments. Understanding the types of insurance coverage available in Illinois is crucial for both victims and dog owners. As experienced Illinois dog bite lawyers with offices in St. Charles and Naperville, we help ensure that victims receive fair compensation for their injuries.

Types of Insurance Coverage for Dog Bite Cases in Illinois

Homeowners Insurance Coverage

In Illinois, most homeowners insurance policies provide coverage for dog bites. This type of coverage is essential as dog bite incidents are common. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year in the U.S., with over 800,000 seeking medical attention. Many Illinois homeowners insurance policies include coverage limits ranging from $100,000 to $300,000, depending on the policy. However, breed restrictions may apply, especially for so-called high-risk breeds.

Renters Insurance Coverage

For those renting property in Illinois, renters insurance may offer similar liability coverage for dog bites. However, not all policies automatically include coverage for pets, so renters should carefully review their plans. Similar to homeowners insurance, coverage limits are typically around $100,000, and certain dog breeds may be excluded from the policy.

Umbrella Insurance Coverage

When dog bite injuries are severe or involve extensive damages, umbrella insurance can provide additional coverage beyond the limits of a standard policy. These policies kick in once the primary insurance policy has reached its limit, offering extended protection for the dog owner and ensuring that victims can receive more substantial compensation. This is especially important for cases where injuries lead to disfigurement or permanent disability. Often, umbrella coverage can add a layer of $1 million or more, above the limits of the underlying homeowners policy.

Animal Liability Insurance

Some Illinois dog owners purchase separate animal liability insurance, particularly if they own a breed that may be excluded from homeowners or renters insurance policies. Animal liability insurance specifically covers damage caused by pets, including injuries from dog bites. This can be particularly important in Illinois, where many urban areas have strict breed restrictions, and some insurance companies refuse to cover certain breeds altogether.

The Seriousness of Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bite injuries in Illinois can be catastrophic. Children are often the most vulnerable, with injuries commonly occurring to the face, hands, and neck. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, children account for over 50% of dog bite victims, and 77% of dog bite injuries to children occur to the face and head.

These injuries can lead to:

• Disfigurement: Permanent scars and deformities often result from severe bites, especially in cases involving young victims.
• Infection: Dog bites carry bacteria that can lead to serious infections such as rabies or sepsis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that 1 in 5 dog bite victims requires medical attention due to infection.
• Psychological trauma: Many victims, particularly children, experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety after being attacked. The emotional scars can last a lifetime.

Why Insurance Coverage is Critical for Dog Bite Victims

Victims of dog bites face mounting medical bills, psychological treatment costs, and in some cases, loss of income due to injury recovery time. In Illinois, where we practice as dog bite lawyers with offices in St. Charles and Naperville, the compensation available through insurance is often essential for helping victims recover.

A typical dog bite settlement may cover:

• Medical expenses
• Reconstructive surgery
• Ongoing psychological therapy
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering

“A dog bite can leave lasting physical and emotional scars. Ensuring that victims receive fair compensation through the right insurance coverage is critical for helping them recover and move forward with their lives.” — John J. Malm, Illinois dog attack attorney

Illinois Dog Bite Lawyers Who Can Help You

Our team of top-rated DuPage County dog bite attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates has extensive experience representing dog bite victims throughout Illinois. With offices in St. Charles and Naperville, we are dedicated to securing significant settlements for victims, including children and gig workers who have been attacked by aggressive dogs. Our team is skilled at navigating insurance claims and holding both dog owners and insurance companies accountable.

If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, contact our offices today to learn more about your legal options and how we can help you seek compensation for your injuries.