A Serious Pit Bull Attack in Chicago: Justice for a Dog Attack Victim

The Incident: A Vicious Pit Bull Attack in Chicago

On December 19, 2021, a horrific pit bull attack unfolded in a quiet alley in Chicago, leaving a man severely injured and struggling to recover from both physical and emotional trauma. The victim, a 61-year-old bus driver, was simply walking his dog near his home when three pit bulls suddenly escaped from a nearby backyard. What followed was a brutal and life-altering event that serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by poorly controlled, aggressive dogs.

The pit bulls had escaped when their owner, a neighbor, was taking out the garbage, and the dogs pushed through the gate. In the ensuing chaos, the victim and his dog were viciously attacked by the three dogs. One of the pit bulls clamped onto the victim’s left foot and would not release. During the struggle, the dog was fatally shot by an unknown male, though the victim believed the dog’s owner was the one who shot his own animal in a desperate attempt to stop the attack.

The Injuries: Life-Altering Damage

The victim suffered extensive injuries, including severe lacerations, fractures, and nerve damage. His injuries were not only painful but life-changing, causing him to lose his job as a bus driver due to permanent damage to his left leg. The emotional toll was equally severe. He developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), suffering from nightmares and flashbacks of the attack, which still plague him when he tries to sleep.

Statistics: The Severity of Pit Bull Attacks

Pit bull attacks are statistically more likely to cause serious harm compared to attacks by other breeds. According to several studies, pit bulls account for more than 60% of dog bite fatalities and are disproportionately involved in attacks that lead to severe, permanent injuries. Victims of pit bull attacks are at a much higher risk of suffering long-term physical and emotional damage, including disfigurement, nerve damage, and psychological trauma, as seen in this case.

The Legal Battle: Holding the Owners Accountable

In addition to the physical and emotional impact, the victim faced an uphill battle in seeking justice. The home from which the dogs escaped was owned by a woman, who had an insurance policy with Allstate. Her partner, whom we suspected lived at the home, but was not listed on the insurance policy, owned three pit bulls, which the couple harbored on the property. 

Initially, Allstate denied the victim’s claim, arguing that the dogs were not covered under the homeowner’s insurance policy, insisting that the owner of the dogs was not insured there. Further, Allstate argued that the partner did not reside on the premises. However, the evidence we gathered through our independent investigation showed otherwise.

Through meticulous legal work, our team uncovered key evidence proving that the homeowner was indeed living at the residence and had a legal responsibility for the dogs. This discovery led to Allstate tendering the full policy limits, in a six-figure settlement, after initially denying the claim.

Settlement and Justice for the Victim

Despite the severe injuries, financial losses, and emotional distress, the victim found justice through the legal system. The settlement he received, though it cannot undo the physical and emotional scars, allowed him to address his medical needs and find some peace in knowing that those responsible for the attack were held accountable.

“A pit bull attack can be particularly vicious and life-threatening, as we saw in this case. Our client was left permanently injured and disabled from working, and the attack nearly took his life. Even the limits of coverage can never fully compensate a victim for what they endure when a pit bull is intent on trying to kill you. The severity of his injuries is a tragic reminder of the brutal power these dogs can inflict when not properly controlled,” said John J. Malm.

Conclusion: The Importance of Legal Representation

This case stands as an important reminder of the legal complexities surrounding dog bite cases, including ownership and insurance coverage disputes. Understanding these issues underscores the need for legal representation. This important case here also highlights the dangers that arise when aggressive dogs are not properly controlled and the devastating impact they can have on victims and their families. We are proud to have been a part of securing justice for the victim in this tragic and preventable incident.

Contact the Illinois Dog Bite Lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pit bull attack, it is crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Our Naperville dog attack attorneys will review your case, discuss your legal options, and help you pursue the compensation you need to move forward.