Illinois Pit Bull Attack Injury Attorneys

Serious Representation for Victims of Pit Bull Attacks in Illinois

Pit bull attacks have become a significant concern in many communities across the United States, including right here in Illinois. These attacks can lead to severe, life-altering injuries, and our firm understands the serious nature of these incidents. We are committed to representing victims in Naperville, St. Charles, and throughout Illinois who have been injured in pit bull attacks, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.

“Our firm has built a reputation as a leading dog bite injury law firm in Illinois, having successfully settled numerous serious pit bull attack cases with millions in damages recovered for our clients. We take pit bull attacks very seriously, understanding the severe injuries and lasting impact they can have on victims. We are dedicated to fighting for the compensation our clients deserve, ensuring they have the resources needed for their recovery and future care.” – John Malm

The Prevalence of Pit Bull Attacks

Pit bulls are frequently cited in reports of dog attacks, and multiple studies suggest that they are disproportionately involved in severe bite incidents compared to other breeds. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), pit bulls, along with Rottweilers, are responsible for a significant percentage of fatal dog attacks in the United States (American Veterinary Medical Association, A community approach to dog bite prevention, 2001). Research published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) also indicates that pit bulls are often overrepresented in serious bite-related injuries requiring hospital treatment (Sacks, J. J., Sinclair, L., Gilchrist, J., Golab, G. C., & Lockwood, R., Breeds of dogs involved in fatal human attacks in the United States between 1979 and 1998, JAVMA, 2000).

Despite representing a relatively small percentage of the overall dog population, pit bulls are often overrepresented in statistics related to dog bites and attacks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) conducted a study that found pit bulls were involved in a significant portion of fatal dog attacks, contributing to the breed’s reputation (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Breeds of dogs involved in fatal human attacks in the United States between 1979 and 1998, 2000).

The prevalence of pit bull attacks can be attributed to several factors, including the breed’s popularity and, in some cases, how they are bred or trained. Pit bulls are commonly chosen as pets, especially in certain regions, which naturally increases the number of incidents involving them. Moreover, some pit bulls are bred or trained for aggressive purposes, which can further contribute to their involvement in attacks (Patronek, G. J., Slater, M., & Marder, A., Use of a number-needed-to-ban calculation to illustrate the limitations of breed-specific legislation in decreasing the risk of dog bite-related injury, JAVMA, 2010). While many pit bulls are loving and well-behaved pets, these factors can elevate the likelihood of aggressive behavior, making it essential for owners to take responsibility for their pit bulls and for victims to seek legal representation if they are attacked.

Pit bull attack, negligence. Kane County, Illinois. Settlement for $190,000 was reached on behalf of a child that was viciously attacked by a pit bull in Kane County. The child was visiting her grandparents when the neighbor’s pit bull escaped and attacked the child. The violent attack was captured on the grandparents’ doorbell camera.

Why Pit Bull Attacks Are More Injurious

Pit bull attacks are often more injurious than those involving other dog breeds due to several factors:

1. Physical Strength and Bite Force: Pit bulls have powerful jaws capable of exerting significant pressure, leading to deep puncture wounds, lacerations, and even broken bones. The severity of these injuries often requires immediate and specialized medical care. The Mayo Clinic notes that dog bites, particularly severe ones, can result in deep tissue damage, infections, and require surgical intervention (Mayo Clinic, “Dog bites: First aid,” 2022). Additionally, studies have shown that the bite force of a pit bull can be considerably strong, contributing to the severity of the injuries they inflict (Hinchliffe, L. M., & Smith, T. J., Bite force and its measurement in dogs, Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 2007).
2. Tenacity: Pit bulls were historically bred for activities requiring strong, determined dogs, such as bull-baiting and dog fighting. This tenacity often results in a refusal to release their grip during an attack, making it difficult for victims or rescuers to intervene and prevent further harm. The Mayo Clinic emphasizes that deep bites and tears, which can occur in such tenacious attacks, are more likely to become infected or cause significant scarring (Mayo Clinic, “Dog bites: First aid,” 2022). Additionally, this characteristic is rooted in their breeding history, making them more likely to persist in an attack than other breeds (Lockwood, R., & Rindy, K., Are “pit bulls” different? An analysis of the pit bull terrier controversy, Anthrozoos: A Multidisciplinary Journal of The Interactions of People & Animals, 1987).
3. Targeting Vulnerable Areas: Pit bulls frequently aim for the face, neck, and limbs—areas of the body that are particularly vulnerable to serious injury. Attacks on these regions can result in devastating consequences, including disfigurement, nerve damage, and life-threatening injuries. The Mayo Clinic highlights that bites to the face and neck, which are common in dog attacks, often require extensive surgical repair and can lead to permanent scarring or disfigurement (Mayo Clinic, “Dog bites: First aid,” 2022). Studies corroborate that injuries in these areas are particularly severe and can result in long-term physical and psychological harm (Kahn, A., Robert, E., & Piette, D., Dog bites: A Belgian approach to the problem, European Journal of Pediatrics, 2003).

The Impact on Victims and Public Safety

Victims of pit bull attacks often face life-altering consequences. Injuries can require extensive medical treatment, including surgeries, physical therapy, and psychological counseling. In some cases, the injuries are so severe that they result in permanent disabilities or disfigurement. The financial burden of these attacks can be overwhelming, with victims facing high medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care needs (Sacks, J. J., Kresnow, M., & Houston, B., Dog bites: How big a problem? Injury Prevention, 1996).

Beyond the individual impact on victims, the prevalence of pit bull attacks also raises significant public safety concerns. Communities with a high number of pit bulls or a history of attacks may experience increased fear and anxiety among residents. This can lead to calls for breed-specific legislation (BSL), which seeks to regulate or ban the ownership of certain breeds, including pit bulls (Clifton, M., Dog attack deaths and maimings, U.S. & Canada, Animals 24-7, 2018). While BSL is controversial and often debated, it reflects the serious concerns many people have about the potential danger posed by pit bulls.

By considering the evidence and understanding the contributing factors, both communities and pet owners can work towards creating safer environments for everyone.

Our Firm’s Approach to Pit Bull Attack Cases

At our Illinois personal injury firm, we understand the complexities involved in pit bull attack cases. We take a thorough approach to investigating these incidents, gathering evidence, and working with experts to build a strong case. Our goal is to ensure that victims receive the full compensation they deserve for their injuries, pain and suffering, and any long-term effects they may face.

Contact the Illinois Dog Bite Lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates for a Free Consultation

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. While we have offices in Naperville and St. Charles, we can handle your case from start to finish anywhere in Illinois using online and virtual technology. Contact our firm for a free consultation. We will review your case, discuss your legal options, and help you pursue the compensation you need to move forward.