Best Dog Bite Lawyers in Joliet, IL

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Joliet, Illinois?

  For non-emergencies, call the Joliet Police Department at 815-726-2491.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Joliet, Illinois?

  You can obtain a copy of the police report for your case in Joliet at the following locations:

  • Joliet Police Main Station located at 150 W Washington St, Joliet, IL 60432, from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily.
  • Joliet Police Department West Sub-Station at 7196 Caton Farm Rd, Plainfield, IL 60586, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

• In Joliet, what are the owner's responsibilities if their dog bites or attacks a person or another animal?

  In Joliet, a dog owner must immediately notify the local authorities if their dog bites or attacks another person or animal. The city's ordinances, specifically Sec. 6-25 of Chapter 6, Article II, mandate individuals to prevent their pets from such actions. The involved animal is deemed a nuisance when these incidents occur without provocation.

• In Joliet, can a dog bite victim recover compensation for their injuries if they are trespassing on private property?

  In Joliet, a person bitten by a dog while trespassing on private property is unlikely to recover compensation for their injuries. Illinois law, as stated in statute 510 I.L.C.S 5/16 § 16, operates under "statutory strict liability," making the owner automatically liable for dog-related injuries, but a person must be lawfully on the property when the attack occurs.

• What should parents in Joliet consider when seeking compensation for a child bitten by a dog?

  In Joliet, parents seeking reparation for a child bitten by a dog must consider immediate medical bills and potentially lifelong consequences, such as psychological trauma and disfigurement. Illinois law requires that any settlement considered is "fair and reasonable." Thus, parents should avoid quick decisions that could reduce the value of the child's claim, assessing both present and future damages.

• What are the new legal responsibilities for dog owners in Joliet?

  The Justice for Buddy Act has imposed stricter responsibilities on dog owners in Will County cities, including Joliet. If a dog with a history of biting (classified as a "dangerous dog") is found off-leash, the owner will be considered a "reckless dog owner." Under this act, the owner can be held liable for any injuries caused by the off-leash animal and may face additional significant penalties.

• What measures can residents of Joliet take to prevent dog bites?

  To prevent dog bites in Joliet, it's essential for people to steer clear of dogs they don't recognize and let the animal sniff them prior to petting. Interrupting dogs when they're resting, feeding, or nurturing their young should be avoided, and small children should never be left unattended with dogs. Critical measures to avert biting incidents when confronted with agitated dogs include maintaining calmness, refraining from making eye contact and retreating slowly without making abrupt movements.